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The Steuben News Registered U.S. Patent Office 1929 A Newspaper for Americans |
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VOL. 81 NO. 4 |
JULY/AUGUST 2008 |
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MUEHLENBERG UNIT ATTENDS UNVEILING OF REPLICA OF On Friday, April 25, 2008, the Peter Muehlenberg Unit #398 attended the unveiling of a replica of the Emanuel Leutze painting "Washington Rallying the Troops at Monmouth". The ceremony took place at the Monmouth County Clerk's offices in Freehold, N. J. The replica was used in the 1960's as the backdrop on a Steuben Society float in the NYC Steuben Parade, and was then consigned to storage in Peekskill, N.Y. for many years. The painting was donated by the Peter Muehlenberg Unit and, after lengthy negotiations, transferred to the Monmouth Battlefield Park in Manalapan, N.J. in 2000. Here again, it went into storage, awaiting renovation of the park's visitor center. After several years and numerous inquiries by the Muehlenberg Unit as to the painting's status, Battlefield officials reassessed the situation and decided that the painting was too large (7 ft. by 11 ft.) for the proposed location. Consequently, the Muehlenberg Unit had to start all over trying to find a home for the painting. Finally, in 2007 they received a positive response from Claire French, Monmouth County Clerk. She wasted no time moving the painting from the Battlefield and arranging for county employees to clean, frame, and hang it in the expansive entranceway of the County Clerk's office building in Freehold. Fortunately, the year 2008 marked the 325th anniversary of Monmouth County, and the unveiling, publicized as one of a year-long series of events, received extensive coverage in the area media. As pointed out by Chairman Arndt in his presentation to the assembled guests, the Muehlenberg Unit of the Steuben Society was especially pleased to donate the painting to Monmouth County since it was Baron von Steuben's training of Washington's troops that enabled them to fight the British to a standoff at Monmouth, and ultimately to turn the tide of the Revolutionary War in favor of the colonies. An unexpected consequence of displaying this painting in a public place visited by many people is that it is bringing renewed attention to the work of the prominent German-American painter Emanuel Leutze (1818-1868). His most famous painting, "Washington Crossing the Delaware," is exhibited in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC, and is "the most often reproduced painting in America" (A. H. Hulton: "Portrait of Patriotism"). According to the Oxford Companion of Art, "Leutze introduced into America the sentimental realm of German historical painting, and attained extraordinary popularity in America for many decades." The plaque under the painting indicates that it is "on loan" from the Muehlenberg Unit. Plans to move the painting to an ultimate future location in Monmouth Battlefield Park will depend on the park's future which at this point is uncertain. At least for now, the painting has found a home.
FRIENDS OF BARON UPDATE Brian J. Howard, Executive Director, Oneida County Historical Society, welcomed Major Ed and Mary Helen Jones, to Society Headquarters on June 16, 2008 for a special program entitled 'General Herkimer's March,' the title of the Jones' presentation. Mary Helen Jones is an area representative of the New York Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Speakers Staff. She explained the mission of the National Society DAR is to promote Historic Preservation, Education and Patriotism. During a wave of patriotic fervor over the country, the DAR Chapters and other Patriotic Organizations in the Mohawk Valley installed these monuments on Flag Day June 14, 1912. They mark the 40 mile route taken by General Nicholas Herkimer (Hercheimer) from his home near Little Falls to Oriskany August 3-6, 1777 to relieve the Siege at Fort Stanwix. This is considered the most famous journey in the history of the Mohawk Valley. General Herkimer and his 800 Tryon County Militiamen and 400 ox-carts filled with supplies for Fort Stanwix were ambushed near the Indian village Oriska. The Battle of Oriskany on August 6, 1777 is attributed with enabling the victory at Saratoga insuring ultimate victory over the British at Yorktown, VA, in October 1781. Major Ed Jones, USAF-Retired, showed an original PowerPoint program as Mary Helen told about the 14 Monuments and the events during the Bicentennial Re-enactment March in 1977 in which Major Jones and son William, 11 years-old at the time, marched the 40 mile route. William was the youngest of the participants in that march. In 2002, for the 225th Anniversary, there was a modified march. Major Jones was the oldest participant. Mary Helen and other women and children rode in Paul Credle's ox-cart drawn by Pat and Mike. There were three annual March for Parks sponsored by the Northern Frontier Project 2000-2002 to help fund the 225th re-enactment march from Oriskany High School to the Oriskany Battlefield.
Over the years, many of the monuments were relocated due to road construction. Monument #9 has a unique place in history for being moved when the course of the Mohawk River was diverted north to free the railroad tracks in Utica from flooding every year. That move resulted in the construction of the magnificent Train Depot which was restored to its original grandeur several years ago. The bronze plaque is now on the outside wall of the present Bagg's Tavern which was not constructed until the Great Depression. Many pictures were shown of Monument #2 with its history of being moved from the entrance to the Herkimer Home State Historic Site (HHSHS) at the time of the building of Thruway Exit 29A until June 13, 2004 when NY DAR State Regent Frances Pattarini of Garden City did the honors of rededication near the new flag pole at HHSHS. Fort Stanwix National Monument sent musicians and Tryon County Militia re-enactors under the command of Major Jones participated. Now of these 14 Monuments only one is still missing from public view. It was moved from its original location in front of the Horrocks-Ibbotson Plant on Whitesboro Street some time after 1977. Its last place in public view was at 811 Court Street across from Matt's Brewery. When the Finish Line arch for the Boilermaker Race was built, Monument #10 was destroyed. The bronze plaque was torn off its granite base and placed at the Oneida County Historical Society for safe keeping as required by law. Thanks to the Oneida Chapter National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) the bronze plaque has been repaired. It will be placed on a new granite monument and installed near its original location at 100 Whitesboro Street in front of the PJ Green Corp. in downtown Utica. The dedication ceremony is scheduled to be held Wednesday August 6, 2008 at 4:00 P.M. The NY DAR State Regent, Gretta Beck Archer of Randolph, is coming to do the honors. All are invited to join in this celebration with the Oneida Chapter DAR. For more information, please contact Oneida Chapter Regent Lillian Trew (Trudy) Kennedy (Mrs. Eric) at 315-733-6244 or Monument #10 Restoration Project Managers Major Ed and Mary Helen Jones at 315-831-5528.
Next year's banquet marks the 90th Anniversary of the Society's founding. Such a special occasion certainly compels a special celebration. The Hotel Thayer stands high above the Hudson. Its ballroom, where Steubenites and guests will gather, affords a spectacular view of the Hudson River Valley. Tours of West Point, visits to historic places of interest and other special events may also be incorporated into the 90th Anniversary Celebrations. Stay tuned for more details as they develop. Rooms have been reserved for those who might wish to linger a day or two. The Steuben Society has long enjoyed a unique relationship with the Military Academy at West Point and this truly exciting time will serve to perpetuate that relationship long into the future. Units, members-at-large and all those who wish to participate in what promises to be a genuine highlight in our long history are urged to save the date! Any suggestions as to how we can enhance the celebration of this milestone would be most welcome. Further details will be forthcoming as the plans are finalized. BELOW: (L-R) Jim Haas, Annapolis Midshipman Jenny Sturzbecher holds the saber awarded to her by the Steuben Society of America. Next to her is Commander Berthold Moog (German Navy). See story in May/June 2008 issue of Steuben News. The Rich Legacy of a Forgotten Founder by Paul Lockhart The Grand Review, as it was called, was a celebration of America's new alliance with France. It was also a celebration of the return of hope to the American cause after a long, dark winter. In large measure, the army's buoyant spirit and self-confidence owed to its newfound professionalism, the product of three frantic months of retraining. The mastermind behind the army's metamorphosis was an eccentric newcomer who spoke very little English, a former Prussian Officer known as Friedrich Wilhelm August, the baron de Steuben. The eldest son of a lesser noble family in the German kingdom of Prussia, Steuben had joined the army of the legendary warrior-king Frederick the Great at the age of 16. During Europe's bloody Seven Years' War (1756-63), he led troops in combat against the Austrians, the French, and the Russians. Steuben never rose above the rank of captain, but he served as a staff officer for several Prussian generals, and King Frederick himself hand-picked Steuben for training in generalship. The advent of peace in 1763 left Steuben without a job. Dismissed from the Prussian Army, he spent the next decade as a functionary at the court of a minor German princeling. It was here that he was given the honorific title of freiherr (baron). But he still craved the life of a soldier. Quitting his post in 1775, he tried, without success, to find employment in nearly every army in Europe. Steuben's big break came in 1777, when a casual acquaintance informed him that the American rebels were in dire need of military professionals. Steuben pounced on the opportunity, setting out immediately for Paris to sell himself to Benjamin Franklin and Silas Deane, then the American commissioners at the French court. Franklin and Deane were suitably impressed by Steuben's credentials, but they were not authorized to grant rank of any kind. All the commissioners could do was to suggest that the baron journey to America and look for work on his own. Steuben took this as rejection, but his desperation drove him to accept what little the American commissioners could offer. And they, in turn, did their best to make him more marketable. Franklin and Deane knowingly embellished Steuben's service record, informing Congress and Gen. George Washington that he had been a lieutenant general and personal aide to Frederick the Great. The ruse worked. When Steuben arrived in America at the end of 1777, styled in the French manner as the baron de Steuben, he was greeted as a conquering hero. Yet it was Steuben's personality and manifest talent that won over his adoptive countrymen almost overnight. A lifelong bachelor, the 46-year-old was a skilled raconteur and incurable flirt. Though largely self-educated, he was as well-versed in contemporary literature and political thought as he was in military science. He enjoyed parties and high living and perpetually spent beyond his means. The baron's charm and raucous sense of humor transcended the language barrier. He effortlessly befriended the leading men of the Revolution. Congress eagerly accepted Steuben's offer to serve Washington as a volunteer aide. Soon his blunt advice on military matters earned him the trust of the general-in-chief as well. Less than a month after Steuben's arrival at Valley Forge in February 1778, Washington assigned him the daunting task of retraining the army. At Valley Forge, Steuben became an instant legend. Stomping through the snow, he put a single "model company" of Continentals through their paces, teaching them drill as he cursed the awkward soldiers in an incomprehensible mix of French, German, and English. The men fell in love with him, with his exaggerated fits of anger, but above all with his constant attention to their well-being. Within weeks, the entire army was marching and drilling with a grace and precision that rivaled the standing armies of the great European powers. The reforms set in motion by Steuben imparted to the Continental Army the tactical proficiency that served it so well in the bloody battle at Monmouth, the storming of Stony Point, and the final confrontation at Yorktown. Though always lacking in manpower and matŽriel, the American rebels were now able to meet the British on nearly equal terms. Steuben's fame comes from Valley Forge, but the truth is that his most enduring contributions came after 1778. As the first inspector-general of the U.S. Army, he worked tirelessly to keep the troops in fighting trim-not only through constant training but also by monitoring deficiencies in clothing, equipment, and medical care. Accountability was his byword. Officers were made responsible for the whereabouts and the physical condition of their men. Indeed, Steuben insisted that officers should put the needs of their men ahead of their own and that they should temper discipline with loving concern. This was one of the central tenets of his "Blue Book," the first official regulations of the U.S. Army. The baron, however, was never quite satisfied with his contribution to the Revolutionary cause, and his quixotic personality often frustrated his efforts. He could be both overbearing and overly sensitive. When Congress balked at giving him the authority and compensation he felt he deserved, he would become petulant and threaten to return to Europe. He was similarly stung when Washington repeatedly denied him a combat command. Washington, striving to keep the peace among a contentious band of proud generals, knew the uproar that would ensue if he were to promote the baron above longer-serving, American-born commanders. And when Washington did entrust Steuben with a major combat assignment, the defense of Virginia in 1781, the experience was not a pleasant one. Against overwhelming odds, Steuben managed to fend off a series of British invasions. But the military incompetence of state officials nearly drove him to distraction, and his impatience and autocratic manner alienated the proud Virginians. Steuben served as inspector-general until the end of the war and remained in the fledgling republic until his death in 1794. Congress showed little inclination to reward him financially for his service, and the baron's improvidence kept him in poverty. Despite growing bitterness, he continued to serve the military, drafting plans for the peacetime army and composing the curriculum for the planned academy at West Point. He was an outspoken advocate for Continental Army veterans. And though he went to his lonely grave feeling that his services to the cause had never been fully acknowledged, he had made a conscious decision to accept the United States as home. Unlike most of the foreigners who joined in the fight for independence, Steuben became an American. Paul Lockhart is the author of the forthcoming book, "The Drillmaster of Valley Forge: The Baron de Steuben and the Making of the American Army" (HarperCollins September, 2008).
Steubenite Tony Avella Runs for NYC Mayor in 2009 Council Member Tony Avella, a member of the Steuben Society, has officially announced he is a candidate for Mayor of New York City in next year's election. Avella has been a member of the City Council since taking office in 2002. In addition to being Chair of the Council's Zoning and Franchises Committee, he is the founder and Chair of the Italian American Caucus of the City Council. In making his announcement, Avella highlighted three important issues that he would address if elected as Mayor: lowering taxes, preventing overdevelopment, and reforming the Department of Education. Avella stated, "It is time to reduce the tax burden on New Yorkers, who are already the most heavily taxed citizens in the country. As Mayor, I would also put an end to the rampant overdevelopment and illegal construction in the City. Reining in the out-of-control construction is crucial to the survival of the charm and character of every neighborhood in the City." In addition, Avella said he would throw out the current "teaching to the test" philosophy dictated by the current Mayor and the Department of Education. "We must ensure that administrators, teachers and parents have a real say in the education process and that teachers are paid appropriately." CAPTIONS: GERMAN-COMANCHE PEACE TREATY: The only treaty of its kind to have been honored by white pioneers is commemorated by this bronze sculpture in Texas. Baron von Meusebach (later called Chief Red Sun because of his fiery red hair and beard) offers the sacred pipe to a Comanche Chief (wearing buffalo headress)
THE GERMAN-COMANCHE PEACE TREATY
Our story begins in the year 1844, when the first shipload of German colonists led by Prince Solms von Braunfels arrived on the Texas coast south of Galveston, where the prince founded the town of Indianola. Prince Solms was a member of the Mainzer Adelsverein, an association of 21 German nobles, that formed together to help alleviate the overpopulation of Germany by founding a colony for Germans in Texas. However, upon arrival in America, the Germans discovered that the Adelsverein had been swindled, for the land and the supplies that were promised them did not exist, except on worthless paper. Prince Solms had to act quickly, so he purchased 1300 acres of good land 175 miles inland where the Comal and Guadelupe Rivers converge. As soon as tools and provisions for settlement were obtained and loaded on wagons, the German pioneers set out into the wilderness, blazing a trail that a multitude of others would soon follow. Several thousand would die on that trek over the years, due to hunger, thirst and illnesses - it was a death march. Upon reaching the Guadelupe River in March of 1845, Prince Solms established a permanent encampment, naming it New Braunfels, after his hometown of Braunfels, Germany. It was in that same year that Texas became the 28th state of the Union.
Two years later, the German population in the region numbered more than 7,000 souls. But the Adelsverein had gone bankrupt, and Prince Solms had returned to Braunfels for good. His second in command, Baron von Meusebach then assumed the leadership of the German colony. About that time, when Meusebach had replaced the prince, the colony had been awarded by the state of Texas, a 3.8 million acre land grant to accommodate the steady stream of German immigrants landing at Indianola. There were many dangers and pitfalls for the Germans to confront living in Texas in those days, such as: tropical diseases, mountain lions, bears, deadly snakes, etc. But most dangerous was the 60,000 strong Comanche Nation that dwelled in the vicinity and regarded the German land grant as their hunting grounds. These "horse-lords of the Southern Plains" reckoned Texas "as being their very own country and they were ill-famed for being wild and cruel.... killing and plundering and seeking every white man's life." Meusebach figured that he had to make peace with the Comanche tribes, and fast, not only to insure the safety of the present German settlements, but also for the German pioneers still arriving, so they could begin settling the land grant. But most important - there was a stipulation in the land grant stating that the Germans must begin surveying the area before fall of 1847. When Governor Henderson of Texas learned of Meusebach's plan to meet with the Comanche chiefs, Henderson sent a message warning the German of the possible consequences of entering Comanche country - the most feared tribe of all by their fellow Native Americans. But Meusebach was not fearful. The Baron had recently put his European title aside and chose to be called simply, John O. Meusebach, the General Kommassair (Commissioner) of the German colony. So on January 22, 1847, the Germans set out on a journey for peace from the most remote German village, Fredericksburg, pop. 500 brave and hearty pioneers. Forty-two heavily armed men along with three wagons loaded with supplies and gifts made up Meusebach's party. A Mexican who grew up with the Comanches, and knew the territory and their language came along as an interpreter and guide. During the first week of the march, the white ones did not see any Indians. Only on January 31, did they come upon a Shawnee Indian who was hunting. "Every year at this time Shawnees come hunting into here," he said in broken English. "...much red deer." Meuseback then hired him and two other Shawnee as hunters for the expedition, for hunting was difficult in this unfamiliar environment for the Germans. The Shawnee informed Meusebach that the Comanches had been tracking the German party for several days. Then on the morning of February 5, while the men were breaking camp, eight Comanches came riding towards them with a white flag. Meusebach and the interpreter, Lorenzo de Rozas approached them. Chief Ketemoczy turned to the General Kommassair. "The red man is anxious. Since the whites crossed the Llano River, the Comanche observed them and followed them." Ketemoczy spoke English well. "We ask the white man whether he has dug up his war hatchet and wants to break in the country of the Comanche? Since it seems so, we brought our wives and children into distant areas, and we assembled many warriors. White man can get war, the Comanches are ready."
Meusebach: "Ketemoczy has our word that we come in peace and want friendship with our red neighbors. We are Germans and come from beyond the great water. We are in search of a new homeland. We built already two towns, New Braunfels and Fredericksburg. We regard the Comanches as our neighbors and friends, and we will always give them a friendly reception in our towns. In addition, we expect the Comanches to offer us the same hospitality. Today we brought gifts with us which we want to give to the chieftains." Ketemoczy: "The white men who call themselves German made a good impression on the Comanche. They are not so rejecting as the Americans and British. You are well known as chieftain 'Red Sun' who we respect very much because you do not speak with split tongue and you keep your promises." John O. Meusebach was 6' 3" tall, with red hair and a "flowing fire-red full beard" which had made quite an impression on the Comanches. Meusebach (Red Sun) and his aides had often negotiated with other Indian tribes in the New Braunfels area, such as the Tonkawa, the Waco, the Lipan, and the Kickapoo, and word had spread far and wide of Meusebach's honesty and fairness. Ketemoczy then declared that he had to talk to the other chiefs in order to arrange a conversation in the main camp of the Comanches, saying: "Wait for two days. Warriors will call for Red Sun and his companions and lead them into the camp of the Comanche. Everything will be discussed there.' The Chief said good-bye with a sweep of his hand, turned his mustang and rode away." In the afternoon of the second day, on February 7, four Indian riders appeared at the camp of the Germans in order to lead them to the camp of the Comanches. After one hour, they reached the San Saba River and rode into the camp where the Indians had prepared a large receiving ceremony for the Germans. "It was a colorful picture which the Comanches offered to their guests. Because of the celebration the Indians had put on their multicolored garbs. Neck and ears of the warriors were decorated with colorful pearls and shells. On their arms, they wore heavy brass rings. On their feet, they wore moccasins made of suede, and like the suede leggings they wore, both were embroidered with pearls. As for weapons, beside bow and arrow most Comanches possessed a long-barreled rifle. Of course, the long spear with feathers was not missing, its point more effective than the best Toledo sword-blade. A multicolored shield made of buffalo skin completed the combat equipment. The Germans were in awe at the sight before them: Surrounded by huts and multicolored teepees were hundreds of mounted Comanches standing in a long row, led by several chieftains. The warriors formed the right wing. On the left side were the squaws and children who were mounted and had formed up. Meusebach and his forty men were now at the mercy of more than a thousand Indians for better or worse. The Germans stopped their horses one hundred steps away from the assembled Comanches. On the advice of Lorenzo, Meusebach ordered his people to fire their rifles and pistols in the air, which was a gesture practiced in the Wild West at that time in order to prove to someone that he could be trusted. The Comanches followed the example of the Germans and fired off their rifles. Ketemoczy and the other chiefs jumped from their horses and went up to Meusebach, who had descended from his saddle. "We greet the white chieftain," Ketemoczy shouted. "Red Sun proved to us that he wants to follow the path of peace. He may accompany us now into the village of the Comanche." In front of Chief Old Owl's large tent, buffalo skins were spread out and nine chiefs took their place. Meusebach and his top aides were invited to sit down among the chiefs making a circle around a campfire. After the holy pipe was passed around, Ketemoczy said, "Red Sun may express his desires and suggestions." "We have two desires," answered answered Meusebach. "On one hand, we would like to explore the area of the Fisher-Miller-Grant (the official name of the land grant); and on the other hand, and this is our main concern - we want to conclude a peace treaty with our red neighbors." Ketemoczy nodded. "Red Sun may continue." Meusebach spoke slowly: Therefore, we ask our brothers to leave the red path of war and to walk on the white path and to visit us, our towns, our villages, and huts. I would like to go with my people to the waters of the Llano in order to live there forever. We want to bring along our wives and children and we want to cultivate grain, and breed those animals with horns like the buffalos have them; we call them cows. The Germans are an industrious people, they know how to get things from the soil which you also like to eat. They will harvest enough to nourish themselves and their red brothers. If you walk the path of peace with us, then you will always have grain, corn, white flour, sweet sugar, brown water we call coffee, and all kinds of meat. My red brothers can bring furs, horses, mules and other things they want to exchange. You however and your wives and children should know that we will always share our meal, if you are hungry. I suggest you this: My compatriots will be allowed to travel everywhere in the German colony without being harmed, and that the Comanche should protect them on all their ways. On the other side, my red brothers may come without fear to our homes, into our towns, go where ever they want, and we will always protect them as long as they use the white path. I do not conclude the contract to expel you from the country of your fathers. We will build our homes besides your wigwams, everywhere where the soil is suitable for cultivation. We will live together like a people of brothers. The part of the country which we need for us is relatively small. The larger area will remain to you. The red man cultivates no grain and breeds no cattle. He earns his living by the hunt. If the buffalo moves to the north, the grass withers or gets destroyed by fire, and the red man is not able to go hunting...and if the cold north wind banishes him to his tents, then he may come to my people and he may exchange what he needs. If hunger troubles the Comanches, they won't be concerned anymore how to eat themselves full, because our people will cultivate more on the fields than it needs for itself." And if at sometime German children and Comanche children wish to inter-marry, these marriages will be accepted by us, and we hope, by our red brothers. "I pray that we can come to an agreement, and I call on the Great Spirit, as a witness that I did not speak with split tongue. May my red brothers answer me now. My ears are opened." Chief Old Owl nodded. After a long silence he raised his right hand, "My friend went a long way in order to meet me. I heard his words and trust him...The hearts of my people are happy...but I must confer with all my warriors... many follow at present the track of the buffalo, others are on the red path to the west where the sun goes down. (Mexico). After the second full moon I will go with my people to the place which you call Fredericksburg. There we will conclude the peace treaty which you want. I have spoken." The council ended by the two sides mutually embracing each other. The Comanche chiefs displayed the degree of their friendship to their German brothers by the strength of of the embrace - which was mighty and most important, sincere. In the morning of May 9, 1847, Chiefs Old Owl, Ketemoczy, Buffalo Hump and Santana appeared in Fredericksburg with high ranking members of their tribe in full feather decoration and mounted. "The inhabitants of the town, above all the women and children were very frightened at the sight of so many Indians, for in order to be sure that the Germans would keep their words and that they would do no harm to their chieftains, the Comanches had encircled Fredericksburg in the true sense of the word. About two thousand Indians laid in wait, in order to attack immediately, if they were betrayed. The mothers remembered an old German custom where on Palm Sunday, Easter fires were lit. To calm down their children, "they told them that on the mountains the Easter Bunny had lit large fires to color the Easter eggs." General Kommassair Meusebach had prepared a table and benches in open country for the discussion and signing, "but the Indians preferred to sit on the soil. The treaty was written in both English and German. Meusebach read out loud the text and Lorenzo translated:
Finally both parties agree to do their utmost on both sides and even to force peace and friendship between both the Comanches and the Germans and all the other colonists of the Association, and they agree to walk always and forever on the peace path." Done at Fredericksburg. this 9th day of May A.D. 1847 Chief Santana and Kommassair Meusebach were the main signatories, and standing behind Santana was an Indian warrior representing twenty other Comanche tribes. One of the Indian chiefs said at that time: "Now German-speaking white men will always be welcome by the Comanches" Meusebach was the first white man to have ever asked the Indians if his people could live on their land with them. All the other strangers just robbed the Native Americans of their lands, then exiled them to reservations or worse. The German-Comanche Peace Treaty is still in effect, and is the only treaty that is officially recognized by the United States which was made between private citizens and Native-Americans, yet endorsed by the Federal government. But of greater significance is that it is the only treaty Europeans made with the American Indians that was never broken. The German-Comanche peace treaty Meusebach created opened up for all Americans to settle and enjoy, one of the most beautiful parts of Texas - a land of charming hills and valleys, cattle ranches, abundant wild life and fertile soil. Peach orchards and vineyards dot the landscape which attests to Meusebach's assessment of the area's fruit growing potential. Its abundance of wildflowers, crystal clear rivers and great scenery continues to be one the major seasonal attractions in Texas. Out of the German land grant, numerous Texas counties were established. We owe all these wonderful things to the brilliant and brave John O. Meusebach, and the trusting noble Comanches and the courageous German pioneers. POSTSCRIPT And present among the Fredricksburgers for the commemoration was the great-great-grandson of John O. Meusebach. As per the treaty provisions of 1847, the city of Fredericksburg welcomed their Comanche visitors into its homes and hotels and restaurants as honored guests. As I remember, the Texas weather cooperated perfectly - sunny and warm. The reenactment took place as close to the original day, time and place as was practical. A colorful Indian blanket had been placed on the ground for the two signers, and they sat down across from each other with folded legs. The holy pipe was then passed from one to the other. A lady commenced the ceremony by saying the Lord's Prayer in the Comanche tongue, then the same prayer was said in German. Comanches in full feather dress, along with townspeople, some wearing Dirndls, and tourists such as Marianne and I, stood shoulder to shoulder together in a circle around the two direct descendants, as they signed a copy of the treaty their ancestors had created, a treaty that had kept the peace and friendship between the two peoples for 150 years! We were then entertained with Comanche and German folk dances.
National Chairman's Message: Dear Steuben Brothers and Sisters,
Fraternally yours, $5,000.00 Level: Steuben Endowment Corporation, Dunedin, FL; $1,000.00 Level: Catherine M. Meyer "In Memory of Hermann Meyer", Covington, GA Robert H. Diedolf, Singer Island, FL; $500.00 Level: James A. Staab, Fort Lauderdale, FL, $250.00 Level: Elizabeth Schuerger, New Fairfield, CT, $150.00 Level: Erwin and Anna Bischoff, Huntington, N, $100.00 Level: Robert and Elyse Land, Wantagh, NY, Erick and Phyllis Kurz, North Bellmore, NY, Dietrich and Ilse Hoffmann, Larchmont, NY Erna Sajovic, Williamsburg, VA, Konrad and Claire Englert, East Northport, NY, Christine Lynn Harvey, Patchogue, NY. Karl and Natalia Topp, New Rochelle, NY. Robert and Shirley Schmidt, Bordentown, NJ, Elizabeth Kohlroser, Brattleboro, VT, Gerhard and Heidi Lemcke, White Plains, NY, Alfred E, Terry, Jr and Louise Planck Terry, Bayport, NY, Edward and Margaret Valentine, Islip Terrace, NY, William Hettel "In Memory of Warren Perry", Perkasie, PA, $50.00 Level: Wilford and Elizabeth Coleman, Blue Point, NY, Walter C. Depken, Rocky Point, NY, Frank Awender, Parma, OH, Roger J. Schnetzer, Rosedale, NY, Johanna M. Kraft, Yorktown Heights, NY, Albert and Else Oswald, Franklin Square, NY, Margaret L. Jasch, Fort Washington, PA, Edeltrud Guschkat, Saint James, NY, Anton J. Stegner, Kingston, NY, Ursula E. Gikas, Brooklyn, NY, Cortland E. Mehl, Stamford, CT, George Juengst Unit # 81, Yorktown Heights, NY, Marie A. Kramer, New Port Richey, FL, $35.00 Level, Luise Heitz, Greenlawn, NY, George L. Glotzbach, New Ulm, MN, $30.00 Level: Hedwig Kruse, Chicago, IL, $25.00 Level, Joseph and Joan Hellmann, Douglaston, NY, Stephen and Gertrude Ginal, Whitestone, NY, William Voelker, Malverne, NY, John J. Groissl, Irvington, NY, Hans and Hilde Jakob, Whitestone, NY. $20.00 Level: Karl M. Mayer-Wittmann, Old Greenwich, CT, Henry and Anne Schulze, Sound Beach, NY, Frances A. Manner, Franklin Square, NY, $10.00 Level: Elizabeth L. Reilly, Colts Neck, NJ, Clifford Henke, Middle Village, NY CONGRATULATIONS to the New National Council Board of Officers who were elected this spring: Chairman: Randall J. Ratje, 1st Vice: Herbert Hennings, 2nd Vice: William Hettle, 3rd Vice: Erick Kurz, Secretary: Ilse Hoffmann, Financial Secretary: Karen Staub, Treasurer: Phyllis Kurz, 1st Trustee: William K. Muschler, 2nd Trustee: Hellmuth Freund CALL TO ALL UNITS TO SUBMIT MATERIAL FOR A HISTORICAL BOOK ON Dear Brother Ratje, We are pleased to submit for your consideration and acceptance a donation of the following items:
With fraternal greetings,
Please write in support of the petition of one of our brothers, Gary Grassl and the German-American Heritage Society in Washington, DC for stronger directional signs for the German-American Friendship Garden in Washington, DC. The 20th anniversary of the dedication of the garden is imminent (November 2008), yet the garden's existence remains a secret. Dear Sir/Madam, With best regards,
CAPTIONS: LEFT: MOLLY PITCHER MONUMENT Erroneous historical marker that states "the name Ludwig not asociated with Molly Pitcher." RIGHT: History corrected. The offensive plaque has been removed thanks to work by Steubenites and other German-Americans. CAPTIONS: George L. Glotzbach, Steuben News contributor, at the recent Bavarian Blast Parade in New Ulm, MN. A HISTORY OF THE HENRY E. STEINWAY UNIT, Henry E. Steinway was born in Wolfshagen im Harz, Germany, as Heinrich Engelhard Steinweg, on February 15, 1797. While still a young man he learned the cabinetmaker's trade through which he learned to fashion zithers and guitars. He became an organ maker in 1815, and was also an organist at church. He made his first piano in 1825 and went on to establish his own piano factory. In recognition of his craftsmanship, he received a gold medal for piano making at the Dutchy of Braunsweig Fair in 1839. In the wake of the political unrest that followed the Revolutions of 1848, Steinweg immigrated to New York in 1851 and anglicized his name. Steinway brought four of his sons with him to New York but left his eldest son, Theodor, behind to run the factory in Germany. By 1853, Steinway had started a small factory in New York and Steinway & Sons piano was born. To this day, Steinway pianos are acknowledged as among the best in the world. The Early Years of the Unit The second meeting was held on September 27, 1934. After this date, the Unit met twice a month until March, 1942, when permission was granted by the National Council for the Unit to only hold one meeting per month. This was reportedly due to rationing during the war years. The Unit sent representation to the Parade and State Convention held in Freeport, New York on October 13, 1934. The first social function of the Unit was a card party held on October 24, 1934. Weidener's Hall was hired for $5.00. Admission was 40 cents including coffee and cake. On December 16, 1934, the Unit received its Charter. The now defunct Ronkonkoma Unit presented the Steinway Unit with its banner. Champagne was auctioned on Charter Night and the Steinway Unit realized a $9.00 profit. Unit Meeting Places and Membership Drives The Steinway Unit has met in various places over the years. The first regular meeting place was the home of Brother George Link. Next, the Unit moved to the Patchogue Knights of Columbus Hall and then to the Patchogue Moose Lodge from 1941 to 1945 and from 1951 to 1967. From 1945 to 1951, the Unit held informal meetings at various members' homes due to sparse attendance. During the sparse years, after completing a membership drive, the Unit had reactivated. This membership drive resulted in the Unit placing second in the New York State Council's membership contest for the years 1949 to 1950. The Unit would later go on to win the State Council's Membership Award in 1953 and in 1957. Thereafter, the Steinway Unit won the National Council Membership Award for the years 1976 to 1978. From 1968 to 1971, the Steinway Unit met at the Bonanza Restaurant located at 227 East Main Street in Patchogue. However, in 1971, Brother Harry and Sister Elfrieda Themann, owners of the Medford Brau Haus, joined the Unit and for the next twenty-five years the Unit met at their establishment located at 2330 Route 112 in Medford. After the Brau Haus was sold, the Unit met from 1996 to 1998 at the Inn at Medford, and then briefly at the Andrea Doria Lodge of the Sons of Italy in Centereach, until the Unit found its current meeting place: The Henrietta Acampora Recreation Center, located on Montauk Highway in Blue Point. The Unit's Civic Involvement (Education) The Henry E. Steinway Unit has long been committed to giving back to the local community and to preserving our ethnic heritage. That is why in the 1970's the Unit, driven largely through the efforts of Sister Priscilla Ratje, formed a Saturday morning German Language School. Initially, classes were held at Emanual Lutheran School in Patchogue. However, as enrollment increased, classes were eventually moved to the Sayville Junior High School. At its height, classes were being offered to both children and to adults. Sadly, over the passage of time, this endeavor ran its course and was discontinued. However, that in no way ended the Steinway Unit's support of the study of the German language. Over the years, the Steinway Unit has offered scholarships to outstanding students studying German at Patchogue-Medford, Longwood, New Field, Centereach, Sachem, Mattituck, Rocky Point, Ward Melville and Smithtown High Schools. Some of the schools have changed over the years but the Unit's award program continues. The Unit also gave a cash award in 1996 at Patchogue-Medford High School for the student who wrote the best English language essay on German-American contributions to history. In yet another effort to promote German-American culture, the Unit, in conjunction with the Fulbright Gesellschaft of Cologne, hosted ten German high school students while they attended Patchogue-Medford High School in 1985. Each year, for about the past ten years, the Unit also financially supports the Long Island Sprachfest which is organized by the American Association of Teachers of German. But, the Steinway Unit's civic involvement is not limited to its scholarship program.
Boy Scouts Meet the Candidates Night The Unit Hosts Three Conventions The Steinway Unit also had the honor to host a National Council Convention in 1982. As one might have guessed, the site of the convention was the Colonie Hill. The Unit As A Source of Leadership for the Society Over the decades, the Steinway Unit has been a training ground for the Steuben Society's leadership. In addition to producing numerous District Council Chairmen, the Steinway Unit is possibly the only Unit that can claim to have produced four members who not only served as New York State Council Chairmen but also as National Chairmen. They are: Brother Robert H. Diedolf, Brother Adalbert Theune, Brother Hans Ratje and Brother Randall J. Ratje. Brothers Diedolf and Theune have also been recognized by the National Council as Honorary Life Members of the Society. Lest we forget, our current Steuben News Editor, Sister Christine Lynn Harvey, is also a member of the Steinway Unit. To follow in chronological order is a list of all who have served as Chairmen of the Steinway Unit: Br. J. Fred Kurras (1934-1942), Br. Paul Willie (1943-1944), Br. Kurt Roeloffs (1945-1947), Br. Eric Lemmen (1948-1949), Br. Kurt Petzsohke (1950-1951), Br. Robert Trautwein (1952), Br. Henry Kott (1953-1955), Br. August H. Reich (1956-1959), Br. Otis LeBleu (1960-1961), Br. Otto Schunk (1962-1963), Br. William Fischer (1964-1965), Br. Robert H. Diedolf (1966-1967), Br. Julius Blocker (1968-1969), Br. Adalbert Theune (1970-1971), Br. Hermann Maier (1972-1973), Br. William Romano (1974-1975), Br. Hans Ratje (1976-1977), Br. William Payne (1978-1979), Br. David Sauter (1980-1981), Br. Willard Ports (1982-1983), Br. Eugene Brown (19841985), Sr. Christel Theune (1986-1987), Br. Henry Schulze (1988-1989), Br. Charles Geyer (1990-1991), Sr. Priscilla Ratje (1992-1993), Sr. Lorraine Mones (1994-1995), Br. Richard Geyer (1996-1998), Br. Randall J. Ratje (1999-2000), Sr. Louise Planck Terry (2001-2002), Br. Randall J. Ratje (2003-July 2004), Br. Michael E. Walter (July 2004-2006), and Sr. Margita Collins (2006-Present). Sister Hermine Krautter: Gone but Not Forgotten
Who would have thought that we all meet again so soon for the celebration of the life of our dear Sister Hermine? It was just two months ago that we gathered around the table of Sister Frieda Grob in White Plains to sing "Happy Birthday" to a jubilant, 95-year-young lady. Just a few days after that, the family, the staff of the Nursery, and nearly a hundred friends serenaded her again, the mother, grandmother, great grandmother, the boss lady, the friend. Hermine took it all in, beaming with pride and joy, while her little Dachsi "Christine" was right by her side as she has been for so many years. Hermine was surrounded by love, because she gave so much love to so many. Now it has pleased the good Lord to call her home, to be reunited with all the Saints in a heavenly banquet. So we think foremost of Alfred, her husband, with whom she turned the Sprainbrook Valley in Scarsdale into a blooming paradise that gave birth to new blossoms and greenery throughout the seasons, year after year, since 1944 because of their hard work and enthusiasm, while also raising a family. We also contemplate a vision of Hermine embracing her beloved sister Hedwig again, for whom she cared so deeply. We imagine a meeting with Steuben Sisters and Brothers in a celestial setting; just think about the welcome Hermine gets from Brother Gene and Sister Henrietta Waldenmaier, Brother Mike Gressel, Sister Maria Scholl, the Apfels, the Rebers, the Ulrichs, the Marks's, Brother Otto Schmidt, the Muellers, the Brandts, and so many others who made up what was once known as the Dr. H. Ernst Schmid Unit of the Steuben Society of America in White Plains, and as our Westchester District Council. As a member of the Society for more than 50 years, Sister Hermine never failed to support the aims of Units and Councils with gifts and deeds, be they for the scholarship programs, patriotic causes, or celebrations of our German American heritage. I have known the Krautters since 1972 and cannot recall a dinner or a church service that was held in the context of our Steuben Society activities and was not made more glorious because of the floral tributes from the Krautter family at the Sprainbrook Nurseries (www.sprainbrook.com). When I look out of the window of my home in Larchmont, I enjoy the view of a dogwood tree covered with an abundance of white blossoms.* It was hand-picked for me by Hermine when I bought it just four years ago. We planted it in the memory of a dear friend. Now, it will also be a constant reminder of my Sister Hermine. Other beautiful reminders are a hybrid rose* and a dozen green bushes just by my front door. And how can I forget the countless annuals and the poinsettias I took home over the years whenever I visited the Nursery as a guest or as a customer. You see, Hermine cultivated not only plants, but friendships. Our Steuben Society is forever indebted to Hermine and Alfred for the picnics they hosted on their property, for their support of the Sprachschule, the scholarship programs, the bicentennial and tricentennial celebrations, the parades, the banquets and the church services. Besides all that, Sister Hermine was always willing to lend an ear and solve a problem for someone she cared for, and that included many among us. Hermine was God's gift to us all. She was an icon of diligence, productivity, love, and human kindness, all of which translated into a long life on this earth. May she now rest in peace and enjoy the company of all the Saints. This we pray in the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ, as we say farewell Sister Hermine with the prayer she first learned in her mother tongue:
* I had brought a twig of that blooming dogwood tree and one of the roses from my garden and I placed both on the coffin. The dogwood looked like a bridal bouquet, the rose like a soft kiss! The Baron's Travels The Baron von Steuben had an active spring and summer as he traveled from one venue to the next educating Americans about his life and times. His first stop was on April 12-14, 2008 at the Abraham Staats House in the Borough of South Bound Brook, New Jersey. Major General Baron von Steuben, in his capacity as Inspector General of the Continental Army, used the Staats House as his headquarters in the winter of 1778-79 during the Middlebrook encampment. While there, he drilled the troops for a "Grand Review" which was held in May of 1778, honoring the French Ambassador and General George Washington. During the Baron's recent stay at the Staats House, he lectured several times a day about his life and his work for the American cause. The Staats House is in the middle of a massive restoration program and the Baron aided in their efforts. Next, Freiherr von Steuben was invited to the New Jersey History State Fair on May 3, 2008 at the Washington Crossing State Park in Titusville, NJ. His participation at the Fair was underwritten by the National Council of the Steuben Society of America. Accompanying the Baron was Bill Hettel of Unit # 38 Pastorius Unit (which is the Baron's unit). Here Major General von Steuben lectured to 100's of people in attendance and drilled the children in German. Once again he was amazed at the few people that knew his name, or his accomplishments! Brother Hettel passed out newsletters and other information pertaining to the Society's mission to the huge throng of people in attendance. In June, the Baron was invited to a very special service held in Fredericksburg, VA., where he was one of several speakers at a commemoration ceremony. The 42nd Rainbow Division of WWII was one of the units that liberated Dachau, Germany. A Master Jeweler from Dachau, Ludwig Stoeckl, presented a Purple Heart Jewel to the 42nd Infantry in recognition of their service. The Purple Heart Jewel was hand made from 52 grams of 18 carat gold and set with 29 diamonds. Members of the 42nd Infantry Division gifted the Purple Heart Jewel to the Holocaust Museum in Richmond. The Baron spoke of his service during the Revolutionary War, and the service of many German-Americans throughout our military history. Major General von Steuben was also present during the recent reenactment of the 230th Anniversary of the Battle of Monmouth Courthouse (June 21-23, 2008). This was a particularly important appearance as it was rumored that the State Park might close. Due to the efforts of many in the Steuben Society, this closing will not occur. The Baron could be seen on horseback riding over the fields. Hundreds visited the Baron's marquee and were regaled with stories of the Major General and in his time in the Continental Army or his home in Remsen, NY. The first person impression of Baron von Steuben underscores the mission of the Steuben Society. As quoted in the May/June 2008 issue of The Steuben News, Brother Bill Muschler stated at the 89th Annual Founders Day Banquet "This is not a German American Society. This is a Society of Americans of German heritage," and the Baron is a living testimony to those words. His goal is to educate the American populous about the history and contributions of Americans with a German heritage, with the Baron as his focus!
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On May 6, 1778, the soldiers of the Continental Army filed onto the open field of the Grand Parade at Valley Forge to perform for the French ambassador and a small crowd of dignitaries from Congress. In the brilliant sunshine of a spring morning, they marched in perfect columns, quickly and precisely unwound into two parallel lines, and fired three rolling volleys of musketry to salute their awe-struck guests.
