October - December 1933
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October 6, 1933 page 7 Giant Snake: "First I have to figure out if I'm long enough to completely wrap around him." |
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October 6, 1933 page 5 Citing our esteemed sister newspaper, the Syracuse Union, the former editor of the Union, Christian Peil recently departed from this life in Syracuse. He was a sincere person, a German from the old school, who carried high the banner of the German community. The old guard dies — I see it fall leaf by leaf!
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October 20, 1933 page 1 _____ Reich Minister Göbbels commemorates the Huge Relief Efforts by German-Americans The celebration took place in the Kroll Opera House. American Military Attaché Jacob Wuest represented the Embassy. The celebration commenced with the Star Spangled Banner. The nearly filled to capacity opera house was decorated with American flags and Swastika banners. Dr. Hans Dräger of the Carl Schurz Association led the committee. As the American National Anthem was played the Storm Trooper Division and representatives of the Reich government gestured with the Hitler salute. During the speech Dr. Göbbels said that some people thought the Germans were absorbed too quickly in the countries to which they emigrated. This only shows that the Germans were not unsocial or intent on expansion.The young generation of Americans and the Germans were fostering just the opposite. For example, in Berlin children of the American schools marched together with the Hitler Youth. Dr. Göbbels sent greetings to President Roosevelt in the name of the German government and alluded to the part Germans played in the building of America. Most of all he discussed the activities of General von Steuben, of Carl Schurz and others. He praised the work of the Oberlaender Trust. |
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October 20, 1933 page 1 _____ Exit from the League of Nations sets the World in Turmoil — New Reichstag Election takes place on November 12th — Even Hungary supposedly wants to leave the League of Nations _____ The entire world was set in turmoil on Saturday when Germany officially announced its departure from the League of Nations and the World Armament Conference. This sensational decision was the result of long deliberations by Reich Chancellor Adolf Hitler, Reich Foreign Minister von Neurath, Reich Defense Minister von Blomberg, and other high ranking cabinet members. The critical nature of the political situation even prompted Reich President von Hindenburg to leave his summer estate of Neudeck in East Prussia and return to Berlin to weigh in with his opinion. To prove that all of Germany was behind the Chancellor's foreign policy, the President simulataneously decreed the dissolution of the Reichstag and all the other provincial parliaments. New Reichstag elections will take place on November 12th. Germany's decision to assert its opinion is the result of refusal by the Allies to listen to Germany's claims as to whether the former enemy powers should actually begin to modify the terms of disarmament stipulated officially in the Versailles Treaty, thus granting Germany's right to stronger defense weaponry with the reformation of the military. Monday evening German Foreign Monister Baron Konstantin von Neurath reiterated Hitler's statement in his Sunday address on the radio that the Allies had not kept their promise to Germany. He declared that since Germany's entry into the League, weapons equality was the definitive expection. That and nothing more. But today the other nations are showing their true colors on whether they really want is disarm while Germany, which has already disarmed, has nothing to do with it. However it is prepared to take part in a disarmament conference on the basis of weapons equality. Accused of wanting another war, Hitler stated that he knows the horrors of warfare because he was part of the rank and file during the World War just like his ministers. The world can set its mind to rest; Germany does not wish to play with fire. It does not want war. From Budapest comes the report that Hungary is also considering leaving the League. Geneva. — The statesmen of the four prevailing super powers at the Disarmament Conference have decided to adjourn for around a week, and there were signs that if the conference is going to die, it will be a slow death. At the end of discussions, which lasted all day in deliberation of the the seriousness of Germany's exit, the delelgates of England, France, Italy and the United States denied to admit that disarmament was a dead issue. The adjournment was deemed necessary to take inventory on the issue of disarmament throughout the world. The governments must take a position and the Cabinets must be apprised of the situation. Germany's exit from the Conference and the League of Nations was taken so seriously that the individual countries deemed it extremely necessary to confer with each other on the situation. The statesmen understand that without Germany's active participation it would have no reason to arrange a disarmament conference. To all appearances a longer postponement of the conference has occurred. Instead the individual governments will be requested to question whether it would be possible to close a conference in which all provisions would be dependent upon Germany's agreement in writing. France especially regards Germany's exit from the international peace mechanism a serious matter. Foreign Minister Paul Boncour made this energetically clear to his colleagues. The Journal writes: "The Anglo-British-American Front is tighter than ever." Bolonte states: "The Reich's actions can only create stronger solidarity with England and the United States." "Pertinax" writes in Echo de Paris: "Germany wants war. Should we stand by passively while the Reich prepares itself?" The Matin characterized Hitler's announcement of peaceful intentions as a trap while the Parisian Soir alleged that in his speech Hitler meant that he "was not willing to burn all bridges behind him." Government officials, members of Parliament and the Press showed no signs of fear or distress. In Parliament and in his various brief statements Daladier expressed the desire for peace by the French people but always emphasized that the Nation must keep its powder dry. "Japan," he said, "has a race of people who believe they belong to the family of gods destined to rule the world. Everyone in the Far East thinks Japan need only spread out one hand to take control of Hong Kong and Singapore. Japan would even take over the islands of American Hawaii if America would let it. East is east and west is west, we say, but in reality we mean west is west and the east belongs to it." With regard to Germany the British dramatist stated, "Hitler's entire secret was that he recognized, in looking back on the Versailles Treaty, Germany was plundered by the other nations. Hitler insists that absolute decisiveness (in Germany) exists to bring an end to this plundering. He wants to get rid of drama, literature, art and Judaica and the Germans care nothing about what it considers triviality. What it's truly striving for is complete equality with every other nation." Hitler Tumult in Newark, N.J. _____ Around 500 people had assembled in front of the hall at which the meeting was being held and a large consignment of detectives and policemen were needed to restore order. Seven people were arrested for disturbance of the peace. |
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October 20, 1933 page 4 _____ Dr. Gustav A. Hitzel, Grand Bard of the German Order of the Harugari, and Fred Rastätter of Buffalo spent last Saturday in Syracuse to confer with Local Grand Officers Frank Schöck and Walter E. Mossdorf on matters of importance to the Order. Mr. Martin Schwamb, Senior Steward of the State's Grand Lodge, could be found for an extended time period in the Harugari Temple in order to greet the gentlemen, where a midday luncheon was eaten. Several pleasant hours were spent later at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Mossdorf at 457 Wendell Terrace before the guests commenced their auto journey back to Buffalo. We were told the gentlemen arrived there safely at 12:30 in the morning. |
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October 20, 1933 page 7 — A Bad Joke. "Name six wild animals one sees in Africa."
— Modern Close to a Business Transaction. The furniture has been ordered, purchased and received in good condition. The last question to the purchaser: "And now one small thing. How are you going to make the first installment payment?" — Sincerely. Bernard Shaw was invited to a bachelor party by an English aristocrat. Shaw was known to avoid these types of events like the plague. He telegraphed the host. "Regretfully I cannot attend. — Stop — Lie to follow by post." |
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October 27, 1933 page 1 _____ Not just the Members of the Senate and the House of Representatives but also the President has disseminated it — Harm to American Economic Interests The circulation of letters from representative organizations of American citizens of German heritage to the members of Congress place strong emphasis on the harm a boycott could do to American economic interests and further stressed that economic battle measures by the American Jewish community against the Hitler regime might poorly serve the German Israelites, as this group itself has repeatedly expressed. |
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October 27, 1933 page 1 _____ The Mayor of New York's message is naturally solely attributed to the propaganda of Jewish and other hate groups, to which the American League against War and Fascism added its opinion that the goal of the celebration was essentially the dispersement of Hitler propaganda in New York. The well-known Jewish agitator, Bernard S. Deutsch just declared that Count Luckner would come here to take over for Erich Wiegand, the "former director of Nazi propaganda in the United States." Deutsch stated that Weigand had to return to Germany because he allegedly might not receive renewal of his visa. In a meeting of utmost significance leading to decisions which were expected to be of high interest not only to the German community of New York but also the American public in general, the delegates of the United German Associations of New York held a meeting on Tuesday, which originally was supposed to be the last delegate session before the celebration of German Day but which took on a whole new meaning. Rev. Dr. Popcke read a letter, which he had sent on to the New York Mayor, and a committee was appointed representing the various viewpoints and opinions of the group to speak with the Mayor on this issue. At the close of the letter Dr. Popcke wrote, "I am of the opinion that if you are fully apprised of all the facts and the inherent problems we will succeed, with your good counsel, in saving the 250th annual celebration and the good name of our German-American fellow citizens." Jewish influence combined with hate propaganda might, we fear, allow the German Day in this metropolis not become a reality. In the interim the New York Mayor has banned the holding of a German Day celebration. In our next issue we will give details on further developments in this critical situation. |
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October 27, 1933 page 1 _____ The German Government will emphatically work towards Peace with Honor and a Solution to the Disarmament Crisis through Negotiations with the other World Powers In a speech held by Reich Propaganda Minister Dr. Göbbels yesterday in Koblenz, the German govenment will work on a solution to the disarmament crisis through negotiations with other nations. Turning back to thoughts on Germany's intentions of warfare, he said: "The only reason why Germany left the conference was that it was no longer willing to let it be dealt with as a second class nation. Germany's action was not a demonstration against peace but a demonstration for peace." Convinced that Chancellor Hitler's action was the only proper and necessary step, the German people anxiously face the developments of the Geneva Disarmamebt Conference. In general the hope was communicated that Hitler's radio speeches to the German people, by which he demonstrated his determination towards peaceful resolution, other nations would be convinced that Germany wants peace with honor. Any form of mediation, be it through Mussolini or anyone else, would be deemed welcome. What Germany wants is not the drafting of a disarmament program by other nations, which Germany will be forwarded for approval or rejection, but a realistic disarmament program accepted by the conference members in which Germany is a full and equal partner in its drafting. There's no doubt that the Government will maintain its almost unanimous vote of trust at new Reichstag election set for November 12th. |
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October 27, 1933 page 1 _____ In Germany the Government Encourages Labor Unions Berlin. — Wilhelm Reichardt, Secretary of the National Socialist Workers Front has given the following reply to the American Federation of Labor concerning the boycott declaration: "The assertion is untrue that workers in Germany have found it impossible to form their own organization. That is the lie of every emigrant, who has put Germany's working classes in the deepest hardship through betrayal of labor issues." Reichardt stressed that in no other country has the labor union movement received more attention than in Germany. He added, "Since May 2nd all labor unions have been conglomerated into the ranks of the National Socialists and this occurred with the unions' approval. This stems from the fact that several hundreds of thousands joined the National Socialist Party even though no force was applied." Furthermore the Secretary of the Workers Front emphasized that the continuing wage reduction under the old German regime was immediately brought to a halt by the National Socialist government. |
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October 27, 1933 page 2 _____ Berlin. — In the newly approved Press Laws the duties of the newspaper editors towards the Reich have been well established. Whoever violates the stipulations within the law risks immediate dismissal. He may also be blacklisted and, especially with the first incursion, may be threatened with fines and imprisonment. Editors are made responsible for reporting the facts to the best of their ability and they will be informed which reports they must suppress in the interests of the nation, such as:
Italy's Guard on the Tyrolean Alps _____ Commando Shift to Bozen in Conjunction with Winter Maneuvers Military leaders added that the ordering of troop redeployment results from the current tensions between Austria and Germany, however execution of the order occurs in conjunction with the usual winter maneuvers. Horst Wessel Film Banned in the Reich _____ Berlin. #8212; The German Film Board has banned the "Horst Wessel Film" due to its danger to the State's interests and to its lack of regard for the German people throughout the nation. The basis for this ban lies in its disrespectful representation of the heroic figure. The film, taken from the same titled novel by writer Hanns Heinz Ewers, was produced in Bavaria and the author himself played a role in it. The film was supposed to have its premier in Germany. No National Socialist Propaganda in America _____ No More Jewish Horse Jockeys _____ Berlin. — The Prussian Minister-President and Interior Minister, Hermann Göring has informed the committees of the Synchronized Race Horse Association, the former Race Club which holds the horse races in Prussia, that "non-aryan" horse jockeys and harness racers will no longer be sanctioned. However the government order does not exclude horses which belong to Jewish race stable owners. |
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October 27, 1933 page 4 _____ By Saturday Germany's exit from the League of Nations was formally recognized by League members yet it indicated that Germany still had to fulfill all international and League obligations for the next two years before it could leave. In Geneva they calculated that Germany's exit will cost around $2,000,000 in League taxes and other financial obligations plus Germany already owes the League $500,000. As usual, the local German Press attributed the debt to the fragmentation of negotiations in Geneva. It was admitted that Germany had made a claim of "equal rights;" that the Allies have not fulfilled their promises of disarmament, and that Germany was weaponless and facing fully weaponized opponents. However, people said that Germany could have been more indulgent in the interest of world peace. Previously German has always yielded in the hope that justice would win out in the end. Again and again this hope has been dashed. The long series of German statesmen — Rathenau, Stresemann and Brüning; they all said conduct the politics of surrendering and meanwhile Germany sank deeper and deeper into the swamp of economic, moral, and military suppression. A helping hand scarcely stretched out, and then only hesitantly and unreliably. There were signs at hand that the sentiment against Germany had changed. Unfortunately the change of heart was so slow, and mainly so meaningless and so lacking in influence that internal circumstances could not wait for it to bear fruit. Then a group of men took the rudder and in their hands were rested the fate and the future of Germany. Even if one was not in agreement with their methods of governing, their politics of force and their sharpness towards those who think differently, one cannot help but feel joy that finally determination and reliance on their own strength has returned. They don't want Germany to be the sacrificial lamb anymore. They insist that promises exchanged even with Germany are sacred and must be fulfilled. They understand that Germany has just as much claim to security as France, Poland, or any other nation. In full belief in the justice of their claims, they refuse to negotiate over conditions which deny Germany's rights as an equal partner. Their guiding principle is not "bend or break" but "Here I stand, I cannot do otherwise." Only time will tell what consequences there will be. |
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October 27, 1933 page 5 _____ Berlin. —The sale of Hitler's book Mein Kampf is extremely large and even if the royalties contribute to only one Mark per volume, Hitler has taken in over one Million. Yet all signs indicate to a belief that Hitler keeps very little of the proceeds for himself. His salary as Chancellor is 40,000 per year, which he turns over to his Storm Troopers. Plus, as everyone knows, he is a bachelor who doesn't smoke and doesn't drink; he's a vegetarian who causes despair for barbers and male clothiers. He has no reason to spend money on himself. Hitler is one of the principle shareholders of the official National Socialist newspaper, Völkische Beobachter (People's Observer,) which has a huge circulation and thus is sought-out by advertisers. However Hitler's dividend from this resource, so it reports, flows into the Party Coffers of the National Socialist Party. |
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November 3, 1933 page 1 _____ Spanknöbel takes a Powder — United German Associations meet in Closed Session which excludes the Press _____ New York, November 2nd. — German Day will be celebrated on Wednesday, December 6th in Madison Square Garden under the auspices of the Steuben Society of America. This announcement came yesterday evening from Gustav W.M. Wieboldt, chairman of the German Day Committee of the Steuben Society. The United German Associations of New York and all other German-American groups and organizations will be asked to participate. The German-American Conference, which yesterday evening met at Luchow's, received the decision of the Steuben Society with great joy and decided on the spot to do all they can for the celebration and participate in full number. Despite Mayor O'Brien's ban on the German Day celebration, the Germans in the City of New York need not fear going through renewed efforts to hold one. A meeting of delegates from the United German Associations of the City of New York, which excluded the Press, was held on Monday evening and assurance was given that, "Postponed does not mean abandoned. In a short period of time we will have a German Day." The vicinity around the gymnasium, where the celebration was to be held, was closed off by a strong police presence. Countless bluecoats were gathered even at the entrances and stairs. Only people who had delegate cards could enter the hall. In an announcement given to the Press after the meeting, the delegation of the United German Associations protested against the German Day ban issued by Mayor O'Brien last week and stated that Pastor Dr. Popcke was not authorized to attend the hearing in City Hall on Wednesday. His resignation, which was transmitted by telegram to the delegation, was accepted and at his suggestion Mr. Carl Nicolai was entrusted unanimously with the temporary leadership of committee business for the Associations. Another delegate meeting will be held at a suitable date and time. Heinz Spanknöbel, who was the main reason for the ban of German Day in New York and was allegedly a Nazi agitator, took his leave of New York's German community according to a letter sent to his friend Dr. J.T. Giebl, President of the Friends of New Germany. In the letter Spanknöbel states he believes Dr. Giebel would be surprised to learn that he would not keep his appointment with him and that he was turning his back on the United States of America. He was leaving the United States because of a arrest warrant issued against him and not because he didn't think he could vindicate himself but because his lawyer indicated to him that he could not find justice before a Jewish judge. In the letter Spanknöbel further attempted to justify his activities here and at the conclusion declared that he hoped the methods used against him would serve as a warning to American citizens of German heritage. In the meantime an investigation has commenced before a federal grand jury on the status and the activities of Heinz Spanknöbel, of whom people believe that he may still be in America or already taking flight back to Germany. |
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November 3, 1933 page 1 _____ Suspected in an alleged Nazi Conspiracy along with his Wife — Attack of Rüdiger von Starhemberg Vienna. — The German Prince Bernhard of Saxony-Meiningen and his wife, Princess Margot are currently being imprisoned in Carinthia for being involved in a alleged Nazi conspiracy. The arrest of the Prince occurred because he attached a swastika flag to the automobile he drove through the streets of Klagenfurt. At the police station he requested permission to contact his wife by telephone at his estate near Pitzelstäten. Since this raise the police's suspicions, the conversation was monitored. The police maintain that Prince Bernhard told his wife to destroy "the documents." The authorities in Pitzelstäten were notified and a detachment of gendarmes went to the estate and conducted a thorough search of the premises. Many compromising documents were supposedly found, among them letters from Reich Minister Dr. Josef Göbbels and Wilhelm Göring. When the case was held, Prince Bernhard received a six week prison sentence while his wife was sentenced to house arrest for an indefinite duration. It was officially made clear that the Princess would be considered a prisoner in her own manor house. She could not receive visitors and under no circumstance have contact with the outside world. An additional news sensation occurred with the attack on Prince Rüdiger von Starhemberg, head of the Home Guard. His "foolish fascism" had been sharply criticized by a former Cabinet Minister. The Prince, who as leader of the Home Guard was one of the supporters of the "Patriotic Front" of Federal Chancellor Dollfuss, was declared "a danger to Austria." A speech announcing the assault on Starhemberg was held in the Styrian Parliament by Representative Karl Hartleb. Parliament was called into special session to elect a successor for Provincial Governor Rintelen, who had been appointed Austrian Ambassador to Rome. "This Starhemberg," the Representative stated, "who deems himself a Messiah for new Austria and who speaks about the extermination of corruption and democracy, first squndered his father's inheritance then borrowed heavily from the Jews and now, since they won't give him any more, allows himself to be financed from abroad." Four Months Imprisonment for Göring Slanderer _____ |
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November 3, 1933 page 4 _____ The German Day celebration in Troy, which was held there for the 30th time, followed a dignified path according to a report by the Troy Freie Presse. The newspaper's business manager and editor, Mr. Jacob Birkmayer, delivered the festival address. Yet the visit seemed to leave much to be desired, so we read on further into the Troy Freie Presse: "But the celebration might also indicate that people saw many people who were not there. At one time staying away from a festival, which should have been supported by every American of German blood, would be avenged even if it was too late. Only forming a closed front of all German-Americans can prevent becoming a victim of racial apathy. We only have a firm footing on the foundation through slow and steady resolution. The efforts of those, who seriously believe in thoughts of German unity, are not finding the support which such untertaking requires. It's forever a shame that once again this warning must be given." A Slap in the Face _____ The ugly dispute within the German associations of New York State concerning the swastika issue came to a head at the end of last week in a way, which meant a slap in the face to the German community. In a letter to Dr. William Popcke, chairman of the 250th anniversary celebration of German immigration and chairman of the German Day Prohibition Committee for the United German Associations of New York, Mayor O'Brien rescinded his promise to discuss the celebration and threatened to prohibit it if it was not cancelled by the committee itself. He gave two reasons for this decision; first, he was asked to do it by prominent German-Americans and second, the Jewish War Veterans reported to him that holding the festival would lead to great turmoil and probable blood loss. This isn't the first time in the history of the Germans in America that the holding of a German Day was prohibited by the authorities. However we know of no single case where it occurred on the advice of German-Americans. We don't want to venture an opinion for the reasons. But we must regretfully ascertain just how serious they may have appeared to be or were in fact. In any event the German community could have been spared the embarassment. How it could have happened is a matter for the leaders of the German community of New York City. They carry the responsibility for the insult inflicted upon the entire German community. (Utica Deutsche Zeitung) |
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November 3, 1933 page 4 _____ Dr. Jacob Sonderling, former Jewish Chaplain in the German Army and one of the most prominent Reform Rabbis in Germany, will conduct a lecture this coming Thursday for the local Jewish population at a reception to honor the 1000 new members of the Jewish Communal Center. The theme of his lecture will be, "Can German Jews find a Home in Palastine?" There is no entry fee and everyone is welcome. Dr. Sonderling studied at the large Jewish seminaries in Germany and Austria and he also attended the universities in Vienna, Breslau, and Tübingen. During the World War he served in the German Army at the Russian Front and received the Iron Cross from General von Hindenburg. He is one of the leading opponents of the Nazi government in Germany and one can imagine in advance what he will have to say. |
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November 3, 1933 page 8 _____ Berlin. — Professor Ewald Banse's book Wehrwissenschaft : ein Einführung in die neue nationale Wissenschaft (Military Science : An Introduction to the new National Science) was confiscated by order of the government. The reason for this move is that individual sentences and formulations will be cited abroad in order to cast suspicion on Germany's peaceful intentions. This clarification was given: "It should be expressly pointed out that Professor Banse's ideas are not in agreement with those of the German government and thus they should be considered private opinion." Dr. Banse is Professor of Military Science at the technical college in Braunschweig. A ban on two wartime songs followed the ban on distribution of the book. |
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November 10, 1933 page 1 _____ Germany only asks for a Minimum Number of Defensive Aircraft "As the chief official reponsible for air travel I expressly wish to point out that it is untrue that we hid military aircraft or have secretly build new machines," Göring declared. "If others refer to our business aircraft, I say that they are speaking contrary to better knowledge and that their experts cannot truthfully maintain our heavy commercial aircraft could ever be converted for warfare purposes. "Germany has turned to Geneva and stated it is against all assault machines but insists on acquiring a minimum number of defense aircraft, meaning airplanes with an action radius made unsuitable for attack. The refusal to permit Germany such airplanes can only mean that others harbor evil intentions. Or maybe they think that we will go on the offensive with gliders?" |
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November 10, 1933 page 3 _____ Three English officers, who were taken prisoners off the steamship Nanchang by Chinese pirates and remained in the hands of the robbers for 163 days until they were released for a handsome sum, are now in Newchang and talking about their experiences. They were not badly treated and during their imprisonment learned a lot from their guards, who had "conversation books" which they used to converse with the Englishmen. They were very willing to instruct their prisoners in the Chinese language and the captives made fine progress. The three officers gave the guards responsible for their keeping all kinds of items from the packets they secretly received from the authorities. |
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November 10, 1933 page 4 _____ (Sent in) With hat in hand and almost reverent demeanor I proceded to the lighted arrow and the listened to the explanations of the guide. In hundreds, and even thousands the heroes of the Allies were represented. But whereever I looked for Germans, there was little more than a modest group from the Central Powers. With uncomfortable and increasing tension I held on to the end of the exhibit yet there wasn't a single mention or even a portrait of a German. It dawned on me that we didn't play even play a role in the exhibit. How humiliating! Should I let this pass? I felt the blood of my ignored German heritage well up in every part of my body. I place my hat on my head and pressed my way through the rapt crowd to the exit when a woman at the book table grabbed me and said, "Wouldn't you like one of these reproductions to take home?" For a moment I swallowed to push down my feelings, but they wouldn't stay hidden. "I should say not!" I abruptly said to her. "I wouldn't take one if you paid me for it." You should have seen the astonished look on her face. Or perhaps you think I reacted incorrectly? — Hopefully not! — J.M. |
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November 10, 1933 page 7 — Stuck in the Mud. Mobius sat in the mud. He explained to an onlooker.
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November 17, 1933 page 1 _____ Receives the Philosopher's Sword-Cane as a Gift Nietzsche is one of the idols of the National Socialist Movement. His "Morality of the Master Race", "Supermen" and "Beyond Good and Evil" correspond to the National Socialist teachings on the destiny of the German people to develop power and build a strong nation as the Third Reich brings about the "New Germany." Niets=zsche's sister performed a somehwat symbolic ceremony as she handed her brother's sword-cane to the "Leader of New Germany," thus publicly recognizing him as the bearer of Nietzsche's ideas. _____ London. — The Sunday Referee reported that Otto Fischer, a German inventor, successfully shot himself with his rocket six miles into the sky and then landed uninjured with a parachute. The flight was secretly conducted under the control of the German Defense Ministry. It supposedly took place on the island of Rügen and lasted 10 minutes and 26 seconds.Fischer lost consciousness due to the extremely high speed of the rocket as he carried out the test which he had failed to complete on several previous attempts. After the flight, when he was telling his friends of his experiences, he supposedly stated that he regained consciousness as the rocket changed direction and began to fall. Eventually his parachute opened and he landed unscathed. |
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November 17, 1933 page 1 _____ Berlin. — President Walter Williams of the University of Missouri and his wife had a half-hour discussion with Reich Chancellor Adolf Hitler, who gave them an autographed photograph as a momento. "Reich Chancellor Hitler told us he's very interested in all constructive things undertaken in America and he would not hesitate to imitate them if they were good and useful for Germany," Williams reported. "He insists that Germany does not want to be isolated from international conferences, however it would only participate in sessions in which it is recognized as having equal rights. Germany, Hitler said, is not preparing for a military offensive. Rather it'd preparing for an economic defensive." Germany should rescue Europe's Peace _____ London, November 16th. — Great Britain officially voiced the opinion that it's up to Germany to take the next step in order to rescue Europe's peace. |
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November 17, 1933 page 2 _____ In many conversations concerning the ban on German Day in New York the question was laid before us, how did it come about that National Socialist leaning associations within the United German Associations suddenly could bring so many voting members to the meetings in which important decisions were being made? On this subject the editor of the Staatszeitung (New York State Newspaper) sent a letter to our editor. These points were contained in the letter:
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November 17, 1933 page 4 _____ Of the 45,141,954 German voters over 43 million cast referendum votes and 43 million took part in the national elections last Sunday. The vote to leave the League of Nations was 40,601,577 to 2,100,765. In the national elections 39,638,790 voted for the Nazi Party and 3,349,363 voted for other parties. These are colossal numbers. They indicate the unity of the German people in its confidence in the current government and the determination to put an end to disregard of Germany's demands. The numbers' greatest significance lies not in the volume of the "Yes Votes" but in the large n umber of "No Votes." Over and over one hears that Hitler tolerates no opposition and that it is dangerous to either vote against his policies and measures or speak against them. And yet two million Germans free and openly voted against him and over three million voted against his Party. Suppression of the opposition can certainly not be as prevalent as it has been described to us in those far-reaching reports. |
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November 17, 1933 page 8 _____ The protest launched by groups of Jewish war veterans a few days ago against the holding of a German Day celebration under the auspices of the Steuben Society of America in Madison Square Garden has been withdrawn, after the attorney for this organization, Julius Hockfelder of the Garden management, made it known that the Steuben Society promised in writing not to engage in any ceremonial activity which could be deemed harmful to the sentiments of the American citizen. Guaranteed Freedom of the Press Required _____ The directors of the American Association of Newspaper Editors adopted a resolution at its regular fall meeting in Chicago in which a statement is needed to the Newspaper Code from the government that acceptance of the code is not construed as abandonment, abridgement, or modifiction of the rights of free speech and the free press. The reasoning for the resolution is that the execution of reconstructed laws offers the possibility of either direct or indirect limitation of freedom of the press. It is stressed that the First Amendment of the Constitution guarantees freedom of the press not just to give the press special rights but to protect the most sacred right of a free people. Important News for Citizenship Candidates _____ The German-American National Federation will assist German-speaking men, women, and girls who wish to gain American citizenship, who have lived in this country for five years, and who are in possession of so-called first papers which serve as letters of intention [to become citizens] and are valid for only seven years, in getting information and guidance on filling out applications free of charge by sending a request with a two-cent postage stamp to "School of Citizenship, 921 N. 8th St., Philadelphia, Pa." — Business people know how to show appreciation when you tell them that you saw their advertisement. |
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December 1, 1933 page 1 _____ New York, N.Y. — At a benefit concert for Jewish victims of the Hitler Regime will be held on December 15th in the Ballroom of the Waldorf-Astoria. Ticket price is $25. Dr. Albert Einstein will play second violin in a quartet. Besides him Toscha Seidel will play first violin; Leon Barzin, viola; Ossip Gispin, cello. Breslau. — Twenty-three year old laborer Kurt Gerber, who killed a Storm Trooper, was beheaded here on Tuesday. |
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December 1, 1933 page 4 Caption under picture reads: Mr. and Mrs. Pastor W.L. Scheding celebrated their 25th Wedding Anniversary last Saturday. _____ Mr. and Mrs. W.L. Scheding of the Lutheran Mt. Tabor Church celebrated their Silver Wedding Anniversary last Saturday. They were united in the bond for life on November 25, 1908 in the Lutheran St. Paul's Church in Greenville, Ohio by Dr. E.E. Ortlepp. A family dinner at their home, the rectory house on Butternut St., was given to honor the day on Saturday. Mr. and Mrs. Schaffrath, the widow of Dr. Dattan, and Mrs. Buell attended. Congregation members also remembered the date and had a candlelit supper to honor the couple on Sunday evening in rooms at the church, which was conducted under the leadership of Mary and Martha Zirkels. Around 200 people attended. The rooms were decorated with chrysanthemums and the table of honor was decked out in silver. A special program was given with a choir under the direction of Miss Julia Göttel. Miss Ruth Scheding, daughter of the celebrating couple, sang a solo. Robert Wickert performed a fine cornet solo. Among the speakers was Rev. Dr. Carl Zinssmeister, former Mission Superintendent of the Lutheran Synod who served as a temporary assistant pastor at Mt. Tabor Church when the church was without a pastor. Speakers also included Professor W. Schaffrath; Mrs. A.E. Oberländer; and Mr. B.B. Given, State Chairman of the Jewish Relief Committee, who extended heartfelt wishes and praised the pastor's humanitarian activities. Mr. Charles Wickert, President of the Church Council, gave a basket of flowers in the name of the congregation which included a sizable monetary gift for Mr. and Mrs. Scheding. In closing Pastor Scheding thanked all in a humorous manner, Pastor Scheding has already been spiritual caregiver to the congregation for 10 years and he, along with his wife and fmaily, enjoy great popularity. May the jubilant couple be granted the opportunity to celebrate their golden anniversary in the best of health and in Syracuse. |
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December 1, 1933 page 8 _____ (Sent In) Last week the humorist Will Rogers said that the United States will recognize the Russian Government and that President Roosevelt will have to use many appealing words to move Moscow to recognize it. There's more truth than irony in Roger's words. The law in Russia since 1922 counts all clergymen among the lowest class of useless individuals and believes that they are criminals, insane individuals and profiteers. As such no clergyman gets a bread voucher with which he can buy bread at an affordable cost. In other words: they are thus doomed to starvation. We now look at two descriptions which came to us over the last few days from Issue 67 of the Parisian La documentation catholique and the Evangelical Russian News Service of Riga, Latvia. They speak for themselves. Roman Catholic Bishop Sloskan was born on August 8, 1893 in Stirniani, Latvia. He was appointed Bishop of Minsk and Mogilev near the border to Latvia on May 10, 1926. Shortly after his installation the GPU (State Political Directorate) Secret Police started to render him harmless. Since the government always preserves its appearance of justification, it brings in the Secret Police to hide damaging documents in his house. Naturally a simultaneous search of the house reveals the documents. He's arrested and jailed on a charge of espionage. Now it's going on 5½ years of imprisonment, being shuttled from one camp for exiles to another. He suffers from hunger, cold, heat and brutality; he's released and then rearrested, sent away, and endlessly trasported via railway, cattle wagon and boat, then eventually collapses amid deprivation. He rallies himself up and after 5½ years of maltreatment he's finally exchanged for a Communist captured in Latvia on January 22, 1933. Countless servants of the Church, priests, pastors, and orthodox clergy have had to endure the same life of suffering, and it's still going on. For most the end is martydom; over there it's nothing unusual. The internal mindset which this suffering brings about is best seen through the words of Bishop Sloskan to his aged parents. "Despite the suffering I am fortunate. I was still able to love those who are not worthy of it. They were the unfortunate ones. — I beg you, don't let bitterness enter your hearts; keep praying!" Just recently the Catholic Church again exchanged 11 priests for Communists and they entered our borders — hollow-cheeked, horrifyingly tattered, half-starved, and they let us sense how their fellow sufferers look. These Catholic priests, Lutheran pastors, and Orthodox clergy number in the thousands. Who's thinking about them, these who suffer so for their faith and their fortitude? Here's another example, which starkly reflects the much vaunted religious freedom. This example was given to us by one of the visitors who recently came from Russia. He says that there are still churches in Russia and priests and pastors, but the count is quite small. Of the 1,600 churches in Moscow only 187 are still in use. The same applies to the small number of Lutheran churches. At present only one church is occasionally in use. The congregation can not and may not pay the pastor a salary. Furthermore bread ration cards have been taken away from all clergy. This card enables only Soviet residents to buy bread at a somewhat reasonable price, thus dooming the clergy to starvation. And yet, the love of the congregation and the faithful know how to care for whoever waits at the altar, for they are also fed at the altar. When the congregation comes for church service, anyone who can brings a small packet. In one there's a piece of bread wrapped in newspaper; in another there are three potatoes; in a third a little fish; in a fourth a little bag of grits. This occurs in the vestibule of the church where a sack has been placed. It's a for the physical or financial upkeep of the clergyman by the congregation, which he can carry home on his back and use to feed himself and his family until the next Sunday. If anything is left over, it goes into the poor box for distribution as long as it lasts. Only in this way can congregations maintain church services — by scrimping and saving. What are supposed to make of such religious freedom as it exists in Russia today except for what visiting foreigners, clergymen, writers and politicians are shown on the parade grounds and the churches? One can read in the Parisian La documentation catholique and the Evangelical Russian Press Service of Riga, Latvia then make one's own decision on the highly praised religious freedon under the Soviet Star. — W.E. Scheding |
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December 8, 1933 page 1 _____ Hersfeld. — In the park at the spa in Hersfeld, Hessen Nassau the first monument was inveiled to Privy Councillor Dr. Konrad Duden, the world-famous creator of German standardized spelling rules and the equally well-known dictionary of the German language. The monument took the form of a fountain. It was donated by the association of former students of the Hersfeld Gymnasium (Academic High School) where Duden brilliantly served as director for nearly 30 years from 1876 to l905 and gained great recognition as a pedagogue. It was he who created the instructional method which we designate today as activity-based instruction. Duden, whose 100th birthday was commemorated throughout Germany, remained true to Hersfeld until his death and by his wish was buried at the local cemetery. |
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December 8, 1933 page 3 "How did you come by such a long beard?"
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December 8, 1933 page 5 They Alone Bear the Guilt if a New War Breaks Out _____ The nations which defeated Germany in the World War must make concessions in their attitude towards Germany in order to prevent another devastating war, according to Dr. Alice Hamilton of Harvard Medical School in a meeting held Tuesday evening at Mizpah Auditorium under the auspices of the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom. Dr. Hamilton stated that the ignoble attitude of the victorious nations might bear the guilt for the rise of Hitler. If the situation had been treated more judiciously perhaps Germany would be a peaceful country today. "Non-Germans might say that currently they cannot make any concessions. But the victorious nations are responsible for Hitlerdom, which now can yield warfare as a consequence. With this peril before our eyes, should Europe continue to make the same mistake? "The only thing peace-loving people can do is to persuade these nations to offer up their concessions so that Hitler no longer feels so certain about the mindset of the German population and its outrage over the humilation of its country," Dr. Hamilton said. "The movement in Germany is almost incredible to anyone who knew old Germany." "This means," she declared, "that Germany, which for decades was the intellectual leader of the world, has now decided to give up its high status and dedicate itself to an unthinking, unfeeling way of life. It means that the disposition of the evolving nation is completely changing and that the attitude of international cooperation will be viewed with contempt and repudiation while the next generation will consider the years of the Republic as years of shame, which must be blotted out with a new approach, the ironclad fist. "Children will be brought to the notion that their nation is superior to all others. The children must learn about the great deeds of German heroes, learn racial pride — learn that it is nobler to be a street sweeper in Germany than a sovereign in any other country. Prejudice-free, scientific teachings will be forbidden. "The movement to make everyone equal began during my stay in Germany. Modern teaching, which aimed towards individuality and internationalism, will be abolished. As a member of the medical profession I was especially interested in the opinions of physicians, who were accused of being individualistic and of treating their patients as individuals. As true Germans doctors they are expected to work only as part of the State. "This means that they must deal with the problem of racial purity. They must help to distinguish which children will be killed at birth and which will be allowed to remain alive, and which persons will be sterilized. They must impart teachings in this new science of racial purity." Even if everything is not the way Dr. Hamilton described it, her assertion is correct that the behavior of other nations brought about the Hitler Movement and it might be responsible for a new war if no concessions are made to Germany. Champagne and Sparkling Wine _____ Whose mouth doesn't water when, after so many years, he can now read advertisements again and realize that he can openly buy and drink this magnificent liquid? The well-known German firm of Altmann Bottling Co., 309 East Division St. is announcing in another section of the newspaper the sale of this and other beverages and one can purchase them with confidence from this firm because not only has it been a real business for decades but also it has acquired the appropriate licenses. — Around five months ago John J. Lohman of 904 North Salina St. was caught selling beer before the legally authorized hour. On Wednesday the matter was finally concluded with Lohnman pleading guilty and Judge Farmer in Police Court assessing him a fine of $50. Letter from Germany _____ Interesting Report on the Current Conditions in the Old Homeland _____ Mrs. Wm. Wochele, 412 Delmar Place, put a letter at our disposal from one of her relatives in Ludwigsburg, Germany, from which we've taken the following interesting insights: The government has fixed agricultural prices for the farmers so that profiteering by merchants, in particular the Jews, is impossible. This is also for the tradesmen, such as bakers and butchers, so they can calculate their selling prices. Anyone who violates can have his store closed. They're even keeping a sharp eye on the manufacturers — stopwatches and assembly lines have been eliminated. Labor-saving machinery may only be purchased under certain conditions. Overtime and moonlighting by both men and women is forbidden. In the factories and businesses unpaid National Socialist men, who control operations and prevent layoffs, sit opposite recruitment offices to supervise prompt and proper dealings. Naturally strikes are forbidden and they're no longer necessary. The Socialists are always streaming into the ranks of the N.S.D.A.P. (National Socialist German Workers Party.) We call the new movement German Socialism. "Whoever cannot find accomodation in the factories comes to the Labor Service, which works on all general service problems such as wasteland reclamation, drainage, street and canal building. Everything is organized in militaristic fashion but not in the sense of the old days as it is sometimes interpreted abroad. It's not associated with weaponry or armed service; rather it's just physical fitness. Class destinctions are disappearing with greater frequency. There are no longer female titles linking a wife to her husband's profession such as Mrs. Senior Secretary, Mrs. Circuit Court Judge, Mrs. Doctor, etc. Now there are just surnames. Greetings are no longer given by removing one's hat or bowing. Now one raises ones right hand and says "Heil" of "Heil Hitler." On May 1st everyone marchs in a parade — factory workers, laborers, officials and subordinates. On October 1st a similar event occurs for the Harvest Thanksgiving Festival with farmers and their farm workers and maids parading in a show of unity just like the workers on May 1st. Today is Tradesmen Day, where masters march with their apprentices and carry the emblems of their profession. All this is aimed at making the people feel like they're parts of a whole. "At first all this wasn't very popular but the beneficial effect increasingly showed itself. It's a sublime sight to see many thousands of people with arms raised in testimony to the honorability of this new movement. The dreadful existence of beggary has almost completely vanished and the gut-wrenching days of public insecurity are gone. Anyone who protests against it gets a summary fine; in extreme cases heads will fall! Actions against the Communists have been merciless. The slogan "Common good before self-interest" is constantly reappearing and it refers to polite behavior especially on the side of young people. There's nothing warlike in its interpretation and it indicates the people's resolve to stand behind our leader, Hitler. You will have heard the latest development of our exit from the League of Nations through the radio address. The situation was somewhat critical but the responsibility lies completely with the other side. An improvement of conditions in Europe can only be expected when the European people thoroughly cleanse their national economies just as we have, especially France and its satellites. "You will see from this description that Germany is honorably striving to pull itself out of the pigsty but we can't continue to develop if we're hemmed in by external conflicts. We fear that others may throw a wrench in the wheel; the ruling circles of other nations know well that with rise of National Socialism they are staring down the barrel of the gun and their dark machinations are coming into the light of day. There will be lies and taunts in order to throw sand into their own people's eyes. "I'm describing all the circumstances in order to show you that things are proceeding gradually for us and one may proudly call himself German, and also to correct any false notions you might have." Safely Landed _____ Colonel Lindbergh and his wife have safely ended the air journey from British West-Africa to Brazil and travelled the 1850 mile stretch with great speed. They have thus ended a flight to perform research for a suitable flight path between America and Europe. Mrs. Lindbergh is the first woman to cross the Atlantic Ocean on a transatlantic southern route. |
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December 8, 1933 page 8 _____ The festival speech was delivered by eminent German scholar, Dr. Arthur J.J. Remy, Professor for German Philosophy at Columbia University. The English-language festval speaker was the well-known chairman of the National Council of the Steuben Society, Theodore H. Hoffmann. The evening's guests of honor were General Inspector of the Federal Army, Major General F.J. Preston from the War Ministry in Washington and the Commander of the New York Federal Marines district, Rear Admiral Yares Stirling. The German Day celebration was a huge success in which the Germans of New York can be proud. |
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December 8, 1933 page 8 _____ Probable Short Life Span for the New Cabinet Immediately after the meeting of Chautemps' Cabinet, Finance Minister G. Bonnet announced that the Bank of France would only be able to meet its obligations until December 15th. At the same time economic experts warned that inflation was looming. At the same time there were threats coming from the agricultural community. At many protest rallies farmers demanded higher prices for their crops. 30,000 miners in northern France came together under the cacthphrase "Work and Bread." The miners held a large procession. The new Cabinet faced about the same problems as the previous, with little hope that it would have a long life expectancy. _____ Essen, Ruhr. — One of the last veterans of the 1870-1871 [Franco-Prussian] war, Master Carpenter Albert Grünewaldt, who participated as a Dragoon in the German-French campaign, has died at the age of 85 years. His regiment rode in the historic deadly attacks of Mars-al-Tour and Gravelotte. He was only one of the twelve cavaliers in his squadron to escape death under fire by the French batteries. His horse was shot out from under him. Grünewaldt swung up onto one of the many horses galloping back. Then to his shock he realized that a grenade had ripped the horse's lower jaw away, yet despite this the horse brought his rider to safety. Grünewaldt's squadron had to cross the Mosel River 14 times that day at Mars-la-Tour. New Warning Shot for France _____ London. — France, whose anxiety over a new "German" menace is already well known, has received a new warning shot. Rumors of a Japanese-German Alliance in the French Press caused considerable attention and the Daily Herald in Brisbane, Australia reported that France was fortifying all its islands in the Pacific. It's known that Japan recently announced upgrades to the [former German] islands decreed to it by the League of Nations and further it was announced that Japan was considering claiming these islands despite the fact that it had exited the League of Nations [in March 1933.] Incident at the German-Austrian Border _____ Munich, Bavaria. — A recent border incident deteriorated the relationship between Austria and Germany. Five soldiers of the German Army in civilian clothing were skiing in the Bavarian mountains when they were fired upon by Austrian border guards even though they were on the German side of the border. Private Schumacher was shot and German Army Command has ordered an immediate investigation. Bandit Trouble in Manchuria _____ London. — According to a recent dispatch from Reuters of Harbin, Manchuria, bandits have derailed a Trans-Siberian Express Train in the vicinity of Tsitsihar and a ragng fire broke out among the 600 passengers. People fear that either many of them are dead or injured or, if they managed to escape with their lives, were taken captive by the robbers. |
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December 15, 1933 page 1 _____ Berlin, December 12th. — Germany's newly elected Reichstag was opened today with a commemorative ceremony. General Herman Wilhelm Goering, the Reichstag President of the last Parliament was reelected, then the election of other officials followed and the session closed again barely 10 minutes after it had opened. With Goering as President, Karl Esser and Dr. Emil Strauss were elected as Vice-Presidents. The Reichstag opening was transmitted by radio throughout the country. It took place in the Kroll Opera House. The majority of Reichstag officials wore brown-shirt uniforms. |
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December 15, 1933 page 5 ____ Weeks ago a number of acquaintances had set the date December 11th, a Monday evening, to have a so-called "baby shower" to honor a mother-to-be. Days preceding the date snow and severe cold prevailed and Saturday, December 9th was called the coldest December 9th in 16 years. December 11th brought a temperature close to zero along with a snowstorm, which reached it's peak just as the invited guests wanted to make their way to attend the planned festive evening, which Mrs. Karl Brubach and her daughter, Mrs. Greta Knupp had arranged to take place in her home at 142 Grumbach Avenue. This is also the reason why a number of ladies, who lived on the Westside or outside the city, had to stay away. However despite the cold and the snowstorm others could not be stopped from keeping their promise. At the celebration besides Mrs. Brubach and Mrs. Knupp were Mrs. W.E. Mossdorf, Mrs. Henry Henninger, Mrs. Hermann Böhmer, Mrs. Albert Debes, and Miss Paula Wilhelm. Later they were joined by Messrs. Henninger, Böhmer, Brubach, Fritzsche, and Mossdorf. Many pleasant hours were spent with music, fine conversation and card-playing. An excellent dinner was served and the midnight hour had long passed as the guests made their way back home in the still raging snowstorm. This shower was held to honor Mrs. Walter E. Mossdorf, neé Marie Lill, 457 Wendell Terrace, which next month expects the birth of a strapping son and heir. She was completely surprised by her friends and it brought to tears as she received the unexpected best wishes and the many lovely gifts designated for the new addition to the human race, who didn't seem aware of the entire event. Mrs. Richard Strauch, Mrs. M. Wohlleber, and Miss Lina Ohleschläger visited the home of Mrs. Mossdorf the next day in order to catch up on what they'd missed on Monday. |
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December 22, 1933 page 5 _____ For the so many heartfelt best wishes, flowers and gifts, which came to us on the birth of our little daughter, Greta Martha Mossdorf, we send you all a thousand thanks. Walter and Marie Mossdorf. [Translator's Note: A check of the 1940 and 1950 U.S. Censuses indicate Walter never got his "strapping son and heir."] |
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December 22, 1933 page 7 ______ One day a hunchbacked beggar garnered the attention of the gendarmes of the French district of Thuir near Perpignan as he was wandering around the region. People felt sympathy for the misshapen man, who begged for money. Since the man and his appearance seemed suspicious he was taken into custody and upon closer inspection it was proven that the suspicion was well-grounded. It was found that the hump the beggar used for show was actually a thick ball of French and Spanish banknotes valued as more than 500 Dollars. |
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December 29, 1933 page 2 Above: Orville and Wilbur Wright's first plane, which weighed 728 pounds, had a 16 h.p. engine and flew 30 miles an hour. This bamboo-and-linen "flying machine" was the ancestor of the swift, confortable air liners of today which fly from Pacific to Atlantic in 20 hours. Below: The new type "3 mile-a-minute" Boeing monoplane used in the world's fastest multi-motored plane service on United Air Lines coast-to-coast and other routes. This plane weighs 6½ tons, has 1100 horsepower, it cruises 500 miles without refueling. It carries 10 passengers, two pilots, a stewardess, mail and express. |
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December 29, 1933 page 2 _____ The London Observer published a long report on the Saar Region in which it states, among other things: At no moment in time may one surmise that the Saar Region is anything other than German. German is its language, its social and political structure and its national sympathies. In Saarbrücken one immediately sees that one is in a German city and that its residents are not only German in language but also German in sentiment. French control in the Saar Region would be deemed absolutely impossible by everyone. A Saarland official stated in a conversation with a representative of the Observer "We are German and we want to be governed by Germany." |
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December 29, 1933 page 3 _____ The Tragedy of His Son In the newly released book by Diederich Publishing of Leipzig titled Goethe-Kalender auf das Jahr 1934 (Goethe Almanac for the Year 1934) Hans Werner discloses some significant information, which pulls back many veils concerning the tragedy which played out in the Goethe house between father and son. The dissimilar couple, from whom the boy August was spawned, created so much tension in his life that only a genial spirit could have shaped harmony from it. However August was denied this, and the father contributed to the dissonance in his character. It's certain that due to the very passionate nature of his being Goethe abandonned this, his only remaining offspring, after experiencing the premature death of his other children. Or perhaps it was due to this internal bond that he denied the son the firm and clear acceptance which he had struggled to attain in all areas. He showed his all-too-human side to Christiana [August's mother] and August. It's puzzling that he let his son grow up as an illegitimate child and not rather, even if he hadn't just signed a civil marriage contract with Christiana, sent the boy off to Weimar where he had to suffer irreparable damage due to the dubious status of his birth. For as high as Goethe stood, as powerful as he was, he could not protect his son from sideway glances and evils tongues. In his childhood letters the boy signed with his full name, "August Goethe," even though before the law he had no claim to this name. He was only permitted to do this with the approval of the Duke. Early on, his baptism was a problem; his confirmation offered even greater difficulties; and due to his mother's special status, how August must have suffered. And it certainly leaves a mark on a human being when at age 17 he and his private tutor had to be witnesses to his parent's wedding, as was the case for August Goethe. Goethe's odd contradiction in behavior as a father also shows up in the upbringing of the child. For longer than 12 years he had played the role of father for Fritz von Stein, son of a longtime friend [Charlotte von Stein.] After a discussion with Goethe, Frederike Brun reported that he would raise his son according to the same principles, namely teach the child to stand on his own two feet, and let him see the world through his own eyes so he would remain independent. However Goethe didn't do that. From August's childhood letters we learn how much he turned his mother into his mouthpiece, how he would tell her certain things which Christiana dared not tell the "privy councilor." There's something unchildlike and uncertain permeating these letters. It's similar to a maxim which Goethe had said in Wilhelm Meister which indicates that the son cannot freely develop in the presence of the father. "The father always maintains a sort of despotic relationship to the son, whose virtues he does not recognize and in whose flaws he relishes; for this reason the elders used to say, 'the sons of heroes become good-for-nothings.'" But with the exception of a brief study session and a few trips he didn't let his son know anything about himself. Instead he remained in the orbit of the father who overshadows his son's own light. August suffered terribly under the unwanted oppression of his father's superiority and it is an outcry from the depth of his heart when the 40-year-old, who always remained "Goethe junior," and eventually signed himself "Goethe f. (Goethe filius,) professed in awkward, convulsive verse: "I will no longer be led about
How dreadfully the father's despotism affected him is shown especially in 1813 when Goethe hindered August from fulfilling his dearest wish of participating in the German Wars of Liberation for fear of losing his only son. Because of his father's action August had to endure the laughter and abuse of the volunteers when they returned home from war and this nearly led to a duel. August had his father to thank for his title, his office, and even his wife. It would be this tragic involvement which caused his father to unwillingly steal the wife that he had chosen for his son. "The marriage was not a happy one for Ottilie or for August," the author wrote. "August was the husband of a beloved wife without his being more to her than the father of her children. And Ottilie belonged to the son while she loved the father. As with all women whose souls fall for someone who is not interested while awaking the interest of someone to whom her soul does not belong, she never came to maturity or achieved peace. August's marriage is shattered due to Ottilie's love for his father, the only man to whom this erratic woman remained true until his final breath. The stroke which August suffered in Rome and carried him far from his father and his homeland, occurred during his last attempt to stand on his own two feet. It hit Goethe with a powerful force. He kept the storm of pain inside and spoke these uncanny words to Chancellor Müller: "I was aware that I had given birth to a mortal." A few days later there was talk of a hemorrhage, a sign which the Romans concealed. The old man became ill and teetered between life and death. He could never get over the death of his only child no matter how strenuously he tried to avoid conjuring up the terrible memories in conversation. "Goethe's existence," Werner concludes, "hides many such unsolvable contradictions between the wisdom of the poet savant and his behavior in life practice. This contradiction is most tragically apparent in his conduct as a father. The age-old law of the blood, which binds and at the same time divides, even shackled this powerful figure." |
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December 29, 1933 page 7 _____ For the first time in the history of France a man, who was sentenced to death, was taken to court and convicted for not paying his taxes. The unfortunate man, who's facing the guillotine for murdering a night watchman, fell into the hands of the Finance Office. His name is Egmund Egasse. Taxation authorities were searching for him for tax evasion. When they finally found him in La Santé Prison, chained to the wall of a death cell near a constantly burning light and consistently watched by two guards, he was hauled off before the judge for nonpayment of a few Francs in taxes. The newspapers denounced this as "the height of burocratic absurdity, senseless application of the law, and a waste of the judge's time." However naturally the Tax authorities got their own way. |
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December 29, 1933 page 7 _____ When the Chinese compile the voluminous number of works in World Literature into their encyclopedia, they may also boast that their oral literary tradition exceeds more in scope of individual works than all other literary works combined. One book, which is designated the longest novel in the world, has now been published in an English translation. The work is titled All Men are Brothers and there are 1300 closely printed pages with a length of around 10 times that of the average novel. This gigantic story by its translator, the author Pearl Buck, who lived for along time in China, has already been vigorously abbreviated. The author of this story, coming from the 13th century, is originally known as Shui Hu Chan. He is shrouded in darkness and from the beginning the work was surrounded by secrecy. A Chinese scholar reports that the book was evil and that a curse would descend upon the writer. Since three generations of his progeny were supposedly deaf and dumb and three generations of descendents of Lo Khan Chung were also deaf and dumb, he was cited as creator of the work. The story deals with the adventures of a band of 108 men who are cast out of society and who take refuge in a mountain range and establish their own community with remarkable laws and customs. The curse remained on the book through the centuries, and although it was well read in secret, reading it was forbidden through various eras in China. Pearl Buck mentions an example from the year 1799 in which an imperial decree ordered the destruction of all available copies and commanded that if the book was further copied, the responsible official would lose his salary for 6 months; and if he read the book himself he would get no salary for an entire year. |
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December 29, 1933 page 8 Berlin. — The staff manager of representatives for the Führer, Bormann, has issued the following order: The Führer recently insisted that there be no Hitler monuments, commemorative plaques or similar items constructed or installed during his lifetime. Monuments and plaques which have already been created must be removed immediately. |