Fascination for Texas, despair about German, these factors, broadly speaking, motivated many thousands of Germans to seek a new life in far-away exotic Texas in the 19th century. To governments and to individuals alike, the young Republic of Texas suggested exciting possibilities. Britain, France, and Belgium hoped to see Texas develop into a viable nation, receptive to cross-Atlantic influence and poised to counterbalance the growing commercial and military dominance of the United States in the New World. Many individuals, likewise, pinned their hopes on the new republic: they dreamed of getting rich by speculating in cheap Texas lands or they aspired to create a fresh life in a wide open land frequently portrayed as a new Garden of Eden. Germany, by contrast, appeared as a place of little or no opportunity. Its intelligent, vigorous and growing population had no outlet for their energy; no possibility for betterment in their homeland. This brought about a frustration and despair that cut across class lines from peasant farmers to the upper nobility. A massive exodus from Central Europe resulted, and the destination was, in the main, North America, with Texas as an important endpoint in the larger exodus.
In the spring of 1842, twenty German noblemen and one noblewoman met at the residence of Adolph Duke of Nassau in Biebrich on the Rhine to found a stockholding corporation that eventually adopted the title, Der Verein zum Schutze deutscher Einwanderer in Texas [Society for the Protection of German Emigrants in Texas], often referred to by the German shorthand, Adelsverein. The German noblemen endeavored to fashion a program of important national significance whereby the opportunities of Texas would supply an antidote to the frustrations of Germany. In so doing they sought to enhance the prestige of that particular class of the German nobility to which most of them belonged, the Standesherren, and also to increase their personal wealth by speculating in cheap Texas lands.
In 1844 the Society bought into the Fischer Miller Land Grant, a large area north of Llano River in Central Texas that the Penetaka Comanche Indians considered as their winter home and exclusive domain. In line with their contractual obligations, the Society began advertising for emigrants in 1844 under very favorable terms, including the promise of free land, an offer that proved irresistible to many thousands of Germans. Unfortunately, the German noblemen had neither the financial means nor the practical expertise to carry through on such a grand endeavor. Their efforts cascaded toward financial ruin and a human catastrophe of the first order. Somehow (and largely on their own) the German emigrants turned things around and successfully made the transition to new home and community on the Texas frontier, leading to a demographic and cultural footprint that endures strongly to the present. One scholar characterized this amazing turnaround as the greatest tragedy of German emigration to the New World in the nineteenth century, but ultimately the greatest triumph. (Hawgood, The Tragedy of German America).
Much has been written about the Adelsverein, especially in the years 1842-1847, but a comprehensive scholarly study making use the official German business records and collected correspondence of the Society, which are housed in the 70 volumes of the Solms-Braunfels Archives (and related collections), has yet to appear. This book will attempt to correct this gap and will be a natural extension of the research for my first book, Nassau Plantation.
1801 Peace of Luneville
“…Nachdem nun (1801) im Lueneviller Friede das linke
Rheinfer an Frankreich abgetreten worden war, bewirkte man
die Entschaedigung der Reichsfuersten, die dort besitzungen
verloren, dadurch, dass die geistlichen Territorien
weltlichen Staaten einverleibt (saekulisiert), und dass die
meisten freien Reichsstaedte “mediatisiert”, d,h. aus
reichsunmittelbaren (immediaten) zu mittelbaren (mediaten)
Staedten gemacht, wurden, indem man sie weltlichen
Territorien einverleibte. Damals schmolz die Zahl der
freien Reichstaedte von 51 auf 6 zusammen. Ausserdem
erfolgte die Mediatisierung vieler fuerstlicher u.
graeflicher Reichstaende. Der Reichsdeputationshauptschluss
von 25 Febr. 1803 brachte diese Mediatisierung nur zu einem
vorlaeufigen Abschluss; denn die Aufloesung des
Reichsverbandes (1806) und die Gruendung des Rheinbundes
brachten weitere territoriale Veraenderungen. Die gesamte
Reichsritterschaft sowie viele Reichsstaende, z.B. die
Fuersten von Bentheim, die Grafen von Erbach, Giech und
Kastell, die Fuersten von Fuerstenberg, Hohenlohe,
Leiningen, Loewenstein, Pappenheim, Sayn und Wittgenstein,
Schoenburg und Schwarzenberg, wurden damals Rheinbundes-
fuersten unterworfen. Andere Fuersten verloren noch
waehrend der Rheinbundeszeit und waehrend der
Freiheitskriege ihre Selbsstaendigkeit. Auch diese Fuersten
werden Mediatisierte genannt, obwohl die Reichszentral-
gewalt damals bereits hinweggefallen und damit der
Unterschied… eigentlich gegestandslos geworden war.
Jetzt ist fuer die Mitglieder derjenigen fuerstlichen und
graeflichen Haeuser, welche vormals Reichsstandschaft, d.h.
Sitz u. Stimme auf dem Reichstag hatten, die Bezeichnung
“Standesherren” die ueblichere, u. verschiedene
Standesvorrechte derselben bestehen noch zu Recht.”
(Meyer’s Konversationslexikon, Verlag des Bibliographischen
Instituts: Leipzig und Wien, 1890, 11: 395)
Feb., 1803
As regards the internal relations of Germany, the treaty of
Luneville was executed according to a plan od
Indemnification established by France and Russia by the
Feb. 1803 enactment of the delegates of the empire
(Reichsdeputationshauptverschluss). All the ecclesiastical
states and Free Cities, with few exceptions, were
distributed among the secular princes in the course of
- (A.J.P. Taylor, 35; Encyclopedia of World History,
590) This was the great reduction from three hundred
states to thirty so often wrongly ascribed to the Congress
of Vienna. It was Napoleon, not the allies, who ended
Medieval Germany. (Taylor, 35)
1804
Introduction of the Code Napoleon in France and in the
German regions of the left bank of the Rhine
1805
Beginning of the third coalition war. Battle of Austerlitz.
Peace between France and Austria. Bavaria and Wuerttemberg
become kingdoms. Zunächst ist England die Seele des Widerstandes gegen die Eroberungsgelüste Napoleons. Es vereinigt sich 1805 mit Rußland und Österreich zur dritten Koalition, um den Gegner Napoleon niederzuringen. Friedrich Wilhelm III., erklärte die strengste Neutralität Preußens. Die Dreikaiserschlacht bei Austerlitz am 2.Dezember 1805 wendet das Kriegsglück zugunsten Napoleons, Österreich muß Frieden schließen,
2 Dec. 1805
…trafen die Heere der ,,drei Kaiser” bei Austerlitz in
Maehren aufeinander. (Stier, 694) …Auf die Ruhrlande
legte der franzosische Kaiser seine Hand, indem er sie als
Grossherzogtum seinem verdienten Heerfuhrer Murat ubertrug.
1806
Establishment of the Rhenish confederation, a federation of
German states under the protection of Napoleon. Franz II
resigns the crown of the German empire. Fourth coaltion
war. Battles at Jena and Auerstedt. Trade embargo
prohibiting trade with all states alied with France (until
1813)
12 July 1806
… Die Kroenung seines Werkes war der Abschluss des
Rheinbundes am 12. Juli 1806. (Stier, 695) 16
Reichsstaende sagten sich offiziell vom dt. Reichsverbande
los und erklaerten den franz. Kaiser zu ihrem Protektor.
Napoleon decrees the end of the Holy Roman Empire. The
Emperor Francis II became Francis I of Austria. The
leading German Princes were made Kings (Taylor, 36)
Preußen demobilisiert sein Heer. Napoleon gründet am 12.Juli 1806 den Reihnbund mit 16 deutschen Fürsten, die sich damit von Kaiser und Reich lossagen. Kaiser Franz von Österreich legt am 6.August 1806 die deutsche Kaiserkrone nieder.
14 Oktober 1806
Am 14.Oktober 1806 kommt es zur Doppelschlacht bei Jena und Auerstedt, wo das preußische Heer vernichtend geschlagen wird.
17 October 1806
Schlacht bei Jena (Stier, 697)
1807
Peace of Tilset between France, Russia, and Prussia.
Freiherr vom und zum Stein becomes prime minister of
Prussia. Serfdom is lifted in Prussia (edict in October).
Beginning of Agrarian reform. Napoleon imposes a
constitution on the Kingdom of Westphalia. Ficte delivers
his public lectures.
23 February 1807
English Parliament votes overwhelmingly in favor of abolition of the slave trade under the persistent agitation of William Wilberforce.
9 June 1807
Tilset.. Preussen wurde um mehr als die Haelfte seines
Gebiets verkleinert (Stier, 699)… Hohepunkt der
napoleonischen Machtstellung in Europa.
9 Juli 1807
Am 9. Juli 1807 zwingt Napoleon in Tilsit Preußen einen Frieden auf. Preußen verliert die Hälfte seiner Gebiete, Danzig wird Freistaat. Napoleon wendet sich gegen Spanien. Diese Ablenkung nutzt Österreich, ruft die deutschen Völker zur Befreiung auf.
Tirol erhebt sich, sie kämpfen Heldenmütig.
In der vierten Iselberg-Schlacht werden sie von Napoleon blutig zerschlagen.
1807-1812
In den Jahren 1807 – 1812 kommen tief einschneidende Reformgesetze zur Ausführung, deren geistige Urheber die Minister Stein und Hardenberg sind. General Scharnhorst gestaltet mit Hilfe Gneisenaus und Boyens das Heerwesen völlig um.
-die allgemeine Wehrplicht wird eingeführt.
-der Turnvater Jahn begeistert die Jugend, sich sportlich zu regen und zu stählen.
-Fichtes Reden an die deutsche nation.
-Theodor Körners Freiheitslieder.
Ein Erkenntnis, ein neuer Geist erfüllt die Herzen der Deutschen. Napoleon entgeht diese Entwicklung/Wandlung nicht, sein Haß verfolgt die führenden Männer, Stein muß sein Ministeramt niederlegen, Blücher wird kaltgestellt, Gneisenau kann jahrelang nur im verborgenen wirken.
Das Jahr 1812 bringt endlich die Wende.
1808
Military and government reform in Prussia, Introduction of
universal conscription in Austria, Constitution decreed in
the Kingdom of Bavaria
1809
Tyrolean rebellion led by Andreas Hofer, Fifth coaltion
war. Battles of Aspern and Wagram. Peace of Vienna between
Austria and France.
1810
Prince von Hardenberg becomes prime minister of Prussia.
Promulgation of the finance edict and the regulation
governing domestic servitude
1811
Introduction of freedeom in the choice of trade in Prussia
1812 (spring)
Im Frühjahr 1812 marschiert Napoleon gegen Rußland. Napoleon siegt bei Borodino. Am 14. September 1812 erreicht Napoleon Moskau, die Stadt ist ein einziges Flammenmeer. Er muß Moskau verlassen und wird von den Russen und Kosaken verfolgt.
Im Dezember 1812 erreichen die Reste der Grand Armee die preußische Grenze. Von 600 000 Mann, konnten sich nur 45 000 Mann retten.
16 March 1813
| Das preußische Korps unter Yorck hat nicht an den Kämpfen bei Rußland teilgenommen.
Yorck schließt am 30. Dezember 1812 mit dem russischen General Diebitsch die Konvention von Tauroggen ab, womit sich das preußische Korps von der französischen Armee loslöst und sich für neutral erklärt. Friedrich Wilhelm III. mißbilligt nach außen hin den Schritt Yorks. |
| Wilhelm III. begiebt sich am 23.Januar 1813 nach Breslau, hier ist er vor französischen Eingriffen sicher. Am 3. Februar erläßt Hardenberg im Auftrag des Königs den Aufruf zur Bildung freiwilliger Jägerkorps. Zu Tausenden strömmen die jungen Freiwilligen herbei.
Am 16. März 1813 wird an Frankreich der Krieg erklärt Der Frühjahrsfeldzug 1813 verläuft für die Verbündeten keineswegs glücklic. Nach der verlorenen Schlacht (siehe Bild) bei Grossgörschen weichen die Verbündeten hinter die Elbe zurück. Bei Bautzen kommt es zur zweiten großen Schlacht, die die Verbündeten wiederum verlieren. Der Rückzug nach Schlesien läßt sich nicht vermeiden. Der Waffenstillstand von Poischwitz unterbricht für kurze Zeit die Kämpfe und wird von beiden Seiten genutzt, die Armeen zu stärken. Am 12. August 1813 übergibt auch Österreich die Kriegserklärung an Frankreich, ebenso treten England und Schweden den Bündnis bei.
Mitte Oktober 1813 zieht sich Napoleon auf Leipzig zurück. Die drei Armeen der Verbündeten umklammern ihn. Napoleon nimmt denoch den Entscheidungskampf an. Vom 16. bis 19. Oktober 1813 tobt die Völkerschlacht bei Leipzig. Napoleons Widerstand bricht am 19. Oktober 1813 vollständig zusammen. Der Rückzug der Franzosen ist fluchtartig. Ende 1813 ist Deutschland bis zum Reihn von französischer Herrschaft völlig befreit. |
|
| 1815
Establishment of the German Confederation (Deutscher Bund) which survives until 1866 |
1828
Bavaria and Wuerttemberg form the southern German Customs
Union
23 December 1820
Moses Austin appears in San Antonio, makes request and is
refused, but makes the aquaintence of Baron de Bastrop who
helps him (Miller, Public Lands, 13)
1821
J.V. Hecke’s book Reise durch die Vereinigten Staaten, Berlin, 1821, published
17 January 1821
Austin’s request approved (Miller, 13)
10 June 1821
Moses Austin dies
August 1821
Mexico becomes formally independent of Spain
12 August 1821
Stephen F. Austin arrives in San Antonio and is recognized
as his father’s heir. (Miller, 14)
27 September 1821
Iturbide enters Mexico City. Mexico gains independence.
(Miller, 15) Austin’s contract with Spain is rendered
invalid.
29 April 1822
Austin returns to Mexico City to try to get reauthorized
1823
Imperial Colonization Act passed-Austin’s imressariat
granted uynder this law. (Miller, 15, 16)
August 1823
Austin and Bastrop return to Texas and begin issuing titles
(Miller, 16; Historical Sketch, 2)
18 August 1824
General Law of Colonization No. 72 enacted (Gammel, 97)
Basically an extension and elaboration of the earlier law.
Addition of the provision no lands issued within 10 leagues
of the coast or 20 leagues of the boundary. (Art. 4)
4 Oct 24
A new constitution proclaimed by which Mexico became a
Republic (Texas and the War with Mexico, 29)
1824
Jesse Burnam establishes a store, ferry and blockhouse
(Historical Sketch, 4; refers to Sinks, Burnam, 4)
24 March 1825
Decree No. 16 elaborates on the previous law. (Gammel, 99)
By Art. 26 settlers need to cultivate or occupy within 6
years according to the quality of the land or they
relinquish title (Gammel, Law of Colonization, 103) By Art
28, the settlers could dispose of their lands:
“Every new settler from the day of his settlement can
dispose of his lands by will, made agreeably to the present
or then existing law, even though he has not cultivated
them…”
1826
Townsends arrive and strike out for new territory
(Historical Sketch, 4; refers to Weyand and Wade, 30)
They were the first to settle in the Round Top area and
acquired “the choicest land” in Fayette county.
1828
John Henry Moore establishes ferry and twin blockhouses at
the present site of La Grange (Historical Sketch, 4)
15-20 September 1829
Capt. Abner Kuykendall assembles a force of nearly one
hundred mounted men and pursues a group of indians to the
Salt Fork of the Lampassas river where they eluded him.
(Kuykendall, “Reminiscences,” SWHQ, VI (1902-3): 311-317)
25 Sept 1829
Guerrero’s Administration announced the abolition of
slavery in Mexico (Texas and the War with Mexico, 29)
Dec 29
Bustamente with the help of Santa Anna stages a revolution
against Guerrero. (Texas and the War with Mexico, 31)
1830
Civil unrest in several German cities set off by the July
revolution in France. Constitutions promulgated in Saxony,
Hanover, Brunswick, Leipzig and Cassel. Cholera epidemic in
Germany (until 1831)
February 1831
Treaty of friendship and commerce concluded between Prussia
and Mexico. (Kossok, 237)
19 March 1831
Wm. H. Jack is issued a league of land. Surveyed by
Horatio Chriesmann (Land Office Records 3: 282; Book 8,
140; Record of Surveys, transcribed, A: 117, N. 158.)
Biesele, 68 incorrectly gives the date as 1833.
30 March 1831
Wm. Townsend receives a 1/4 league. (Land Office Records,
4: 562.; Bk. 8, 52.)
- Townsend receives a 1/4 league. ( 4: 558; Bk. 8,
50.) Shuffler, 2 incorrectly gives the date as 1833
1832
Santa Anna engineers a revolution against Bustamente
1833
Santa Anna runs for and is elected President of ther
Republic, within a year he dissolves the legislature and
proclaims himself dictator. (Texas and the War with Mexico,
31)
29 May 1834
John Henry Moore, John and Andrew Rabb, and John Ingram
issue a circular lamnting the lack of protection and
calling for a punitive raid on the Waco indians, on the
upper reaches of the Colorado. (Historical Sketch, 4;
Weyand and Wade, 78)
1835
2 Oct 1835
Battle at Gonzales, opening shots of the war (Texas and the
War with Mexico, 47
9 Oct 35
Fannin captures Goliad (Texas and the War with Mexico, 47)
10 Dec 35
Cos surrenders his shattered army after the battle of Bexar
in San Antonio. (Texas and the War with Mexico, 47)
1836
October
Sam Houston unaugurated for first term as governor
1837
1837
Elijah Lovejoy, a prominent abolitionist, murdered by a mob
in Illinois. At once the abolitionists set upon the whole
proslavery faction, and the cause for Texas’ annexation
suffered.(Texas and the War with Mexico, 65)
1 March 37
The Senate of the U.S. votes for recognition (Barker, 368)
14 Nov 37
A bill presented for the creation of Fayette County
14 Dec 37
“An Act to Establish the County of Fayette” approved,
creating Fayette County out of the counties of Colorado and
Mina. (Gam. Laws, I, 1377; Historical Sketch, 9)
1838
1838
Henry Francis Fischer comes to Texas (Solon, 16)
Those in state dissatisfied with Houston’s Indian policy find a champion in Mirabeau B. Lamar.
1839
16 July 1839
Brutal attack on Cherokees
10 January 1840
William Jack, county of Brazoria, conveys to Robert Mills,
county of Brazoria, the Jack League for $5,000. The deal is
signed in Austin. (Fayette Deed Book B/ 351.)
Biesele, 68 gives the date as 1-20-40
March 1840
Council House fight in San Antonio
August 1840
Victoria/ Linnville raid
13 November 1840
“England executed in 1840 a complete reversal of its policy
toward the Texas Question. It likewise pronounced
diplomatic recognition and concluded on November 13, 1840 a
treaty of friendship and commerce. The ratification of
this policy, however, did not take place until 1842.”
(Kossok, 235)
2 December 1840
York purchases the William Townsend quarter league for
$950. Adjacent to Jack league (Shuffler, 6)
1841
4 January 1841
Colonization law enacted by the Congress of the Republic
(Solon, 8; Gammel, Laws of Texas, II, 554-557)
“…on the following conditions, to whit: the said contrctors, on their part, agree to introduce a number or families, to be specified in the contract, within three years from the date of the contract, provided, however, tht they shall commence the settlement within one yer from the dt eof the contract.”
21 January 1841
An at, to incorportae the German Union for Texas (Gammel II, 553). Henry F. Fisher
April 1841
Sam Lewis recieves a patent for land from the Republic of
Texas on Cummins Creek (Fayette Deed Records, B/356)
Dec 1841
Houston elected President of Texas for second term. News
that he was negotiating a treaty with England alarmed
Washington, for England was trying to persuade Mexico to
recognize the Republic of Texas, if Texas would promise
never to join the union. (Texas and the War with Mexico,
68)
1842
9 Jan 42
General Mariano Arista issued from Monterrey an address to
the inhabitants of the “Department of Texas” pointing out
the hopelessness of their struggle for independence and
promising amnesty..” (Barker, 363)
5 February 1842 (ammendment to act passed 4 Jan 1841)
Law empowers President to grant land to colonists under
certain conditions–law ammended to make it more workable
(Solon, 11; Gammel, II, 777 Four contracts entered into by
the republic of Texas)
8 February 1842
Fischer and Miller apply for a grant (Biesele, 76)
March 1842
Mexican army briefly ocupies Golia, Refugio, Victoria, and
San Antonio. A call went and Texan forces gathered in San
Antonio, but the Mexican army quickly retired. (Barker,
364)
8 March 42
Ch. Graf zu Neu Lein.-Westerburg outlines his conception
for a Verein and goes into great detail in explaining why
he thinks Texas is a land of great opportunity. Bases most
of his information on Scherpf and Kennedy. (SBA I, 1-10)
Calls for a subscription for 20 shares at 5,000fl. each of
which only 2,500 is to be paid in the meantime. As soon as
these are covered the Verein will be considered as
constituted and a meeting will be called.
1) geography 1
2) gesicherte politische Existenz 1
3) Werth des Grundbesitzes gestiegen 2
4) Germans are the hardest working 3
5) Überbevölkerung Dtlds. 4
6) Amerika das Ziel der Auswanderung 4, 5
7) Fame and glory to those who put it together 5
8) Very few speculations are based on a greater
certainty thn this: a Morgan of land worth one
dollar now will be worth two dollars in twenty years
9) By gathering native plants of medicinal vaalue
(Sassaparilla, Ipecacuanha, Jalappa–one could
recapture his capital outlay in one year.
10) The best approach spend 50,000 fl. on 20,000 Morgan
land and an additional 50,000 fl. on slaves and set
up a plantation. If you plant 300 accres of cotton
eill get a return of 6% on capital (6)
11) situation in Texas comparable to thaat of the U.S.
twenty yearss ago (6)
12) Still the question? will Texas maintain its
independence? Yes (7)
13) proposal 20 shares of 5,000 fl. each (8)
14) altho the temper of the times precludes a
reintroduction of feudalism, nevertheless.. (9)
15) read Scherpf andd Kennedy (9)
16) as soon as twenty shares committed assembly to be
called (10)
17) time a waisting (10)
8 March 42
Ch. Graf zu Neu Lein.-Westerburg outlines his conception
for a Verein and goes into great detail in explaining why
he thinks Texas is a land of great opportunity. Bases most
of his information on Scherpf and Kennedy. (SBA I, 1-10)
Calls for a subscription for 20 shares at 5,000fl. each of
which only 2,500 is to be paid in the meantime. As soon as
these are covered the Verein will be considered as
constituted and a meeting will be called.
20 April 1842
There gathered at Biebrich am Rhein prices and counts to
form a Society. (Benjamin, 31) Decided to send Boos-Waldeck
and Victor zu Leiningen to Texas the same day with pleins
pouvoirs (reasons for doing this in report of Castell (SBA
31: 195; for protocal of meeting ibid., 191)
Sr. Durchlaut der Herzog von Nassau
Der Fürst von Leiningen von Leiningen (president)
… see SBA V. 40, page 113
19 April 42 Generalversammlung I
GV in Biebrich (SBA 1: 12)
20 April 1842
Protocoll der Ausschuss-Sitzung (SBA 31, 191)
- Confidence to be given to Boos if he undertakes trip
to Texas
- Viktor Lein will accompany him under certain
conditions and limitations
3 The number of shares increase to 24
- Dr. Rueppel will be approached in the interest of the
Society
- The committee will take care of the details of the
ship travel
- The president will take care of the immediate
business matters
- The date of the installment payment will be set
- Castell will take over the business affairs
26 April 1842
Protocoll der Ausschuss-Sitzung 26 April 1842 (SBA 31, 192)
Committee made up of Castell, Boos and Viktor Alt-Lein.
- Expedition to consist of B-W, Lein (under certain
restrictions) a technician and two hunters
- Lein. to go look for a capable tech. at Elberfeldt
where a Ger. mining co. that has done business in
Mexico is located
- The trip will start in Havre with the Paquetboot
“Horstmann” to New Orleans unless there are reasons to
the contrary
- The trip will take place middle of June and the 1st
installment of 2,500 fl. is set for the end of May
4 May 1842
Protocoll der Ausschuss-Sitzung 4 May 1842 (SBA 31, 193)
- The recent aggression of Mexico against Texas rather
a reason for haste in sending an Expedition to Texas
than delay because:
- will be able to judge the power and stability of
the Republic
- since matters will be quickly decided it is to the
advantage of the Society to be on hand in order to
profit from the situation no matter how it turns
out (SBA 31: 194)
- There is no doubt that one can profit in the
moment of danger or negotiate advantageous
conditions for future acquisitions
- from the English newspapers one gathers that Texas
might join the Union if it appears Mexico might
prevail and the US will sell land for more than
the Republic of Texas
- There appears to be forming a political
constellation of England, France, and Belgium–
good to have someone on hand to judge this
situation correctly.
- Boos and Lein. with two, others need to be sent to
Texas as soon as possible (they will forget about the
technician for the time being)
- The installment payment offer 2,500 fl. per share
should arrive by the 20th of May and Castell will
take care of this money
(SBA I, 12; XXXI, 191-193)
3 June 1842
Orvanne and Ducos sign contract with Texas government.
(SBA 48a: 33)
7 June 1842
Fisher and Miller receive first contract for a land
in compliance with the laws of Jan 4, 1841, and Feb 5, 1842.
(Biesele, 76: Seele, 20)
10 June 1842
B-W and Leiningen ship out on the three masted Lorena
from Havre, (Boos-Waldeck General-Bericht, no date, SBA
50: 150)
18, 19 June 42
Generalversammlung (Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA 28: 35-
157)
18 July 1842
B-W and Lein. arrive in New York , 14 days there
2 August 1842
ship out for Velasco on the Schooner Ferry-not, Capt.
M.Intire
27 August 1842
arrive in Velasco
30 August 1842
B-W and Lein. arrive in Galveston (General-Bericht, SBA 50:
150; Boos-Waldeck an den Herzog von Nassau, 5 Sept. 1842,
SBA 50: 212) states intention to establish a plantation:
“Es ist ferner unser Absicht, nachdem uns von der Regierung
ein Landstrich ueberwiesen sein wird, darauf so bald als
moeglich eine Plantage anzulegen, die der zu gruendenden
Kolonie als Mittelpunkt dienen soll, und von wo aus mit
Rath und That unterstuetzt werden koenne, zugleich aber ein
produktives Institut werden muss, dass von zweitem Jahr
nach seiner Gruendung anfangend, baare Zinsen zur
Verteilung abwerfen muss.”
spend 7 weeks in Galveston (SBA L. 150)
9 September 1842
Boos-Waldeck and Lein. have a short visit with Pres.
Houston in Houston (SBA L, 150) Boos Waldeck describes in
deatail his visit with Houston (SBA L, 190)
10 September 1842
B-W and Lein. arrived in Galveston (Houston Post, Sept. 14)
(B-W Bericht, SBA L, 40, 41)
11-20 Sept 1842
Annother Mexican force under the command of Gen Adrian Woll
penetrates to San Antonio and occupies the city (Barker,
365)
18 Sept 42
Capt. Dawson and 2/3 of his Fayette County command
Massacred on Salado Creek after their surrender to a
Mexican Calvary detachment in Bexar County (Historical
Sketch, 11)
15 October 1842
B-W and Lein. go to Houston again, and properly outfitted
depart by horseback first to Columbia am Brazos, in order
to meet their friend, Col. Morgan Smith (SBA L, 151)
29 October 1842
B-W and L. leave Columbia in the company of Dr. Anson
Jones. They part company after a while-he to Washington,
they to Mill Creek. They leave Jaeger Schwind behind at
Columbia, but take on another companion, from there they
head toward Mill Creek and come to the first German
Settlement (Cat Spring) where there are about 20 German
families. Among them is the family v. Roeder (SBA 50: 151).
15 miles further they find the second German settlement
consisting of from 20 to 30 families (Industrie). They meet
Fordrandt here. With him they inspect the land between both
branches of Mill Creek as well as the land along Cummings
creek (SBA L, 152)
18 Sept 42
Capt Dawson and 2/3 of his Fayette County command
masssacred after surrendering to a mexicam\n Calvary
command on Salado creek, Bexar County. (Historical Sketch,
11) Mier expedition soon thereafter.
7 November 1842
They leave the settlement on Mill Creek and travel 20 miles
higher up toward Washington to visit the settlement of
Capt. Christmann, named Oak Valley, and from there to
Washington where Congress was in session (SBA 50: 153)
While here they contemplate taking on a grant and come to
the conclusion not to do so but rather to buy land (SBA L,
153-155)
“..gelangten wir zu den Bescluss Land zu kaufen und darauf
eine Plantage mit Schwarzen zu errichten, als dasjenige
Geschaeft uns die groesste Sicherheit eines guten Zinsen-
Ertyrags gewaehrt. Zugleich verbanden wir damit die Idee,
der Ansiedlung dt. Ackerbauenden und Handwerk treibenden
Familien in kleiner Anzahl, rund um die Plantage herum
1843
5 January 1843
114 colonists of Castro arrive (Julia Nott Waugh, Castro-
Ville and Henri Castro Empresario, San Antonio: Standard
Printing Co., 1934.) quoted in Thomas Lloyd Miller, Public
Lands, 42.
9 January 1843
112 colonists for the Castro colony arrive at the Lavaca Bay; 142 followed close behind (Morgenthaler, 50
9 January 1843
B-W bought plantation for $3,321 + $10 on a draft from
Messrs. Schmidt & Co., New Orleans. (Biesele, 68,103
footnote; Fayette County Deed Record Book C/ 205-206)
“Ehe wir den League am Cummings-Creek kauften, hatten wir
den Col. Sam Williams, einen der frueheren Associates von
St. f. Austin, Offerten auf 2 zwischen dem Mill Creek
liegenden Leagues machen lassen, zu welcher Unterhandlung
wir von Washington aus, wo wir damals verweilen mussten,
Herr Fordrandt nach Galveston schickten, welche indessen
fehlschlug, da wir den geforderten Preis von 1 Dollar per
Acre unter den jetzigen Zeitverhaeltnissen zu hoch fanden.
Die von Mr. Mills gekauften League uebertrifft jene von Sam
Williams in jeder Hinsicht, und kann, glaube ich, als eine
der besten im Lande, den Bottom des Brazos abgerechnet,
angesehen werden. Nur die momentane Geldverlegenheit des
Verkaeufers, der sie beinah fuer den doppelten Preis von
Dr. Jack gekauft, und stets 2 Doll. per acre verlangt
hatte, dann der frundschaftl. Beistand unseres
vortrefflichen Col. Smith aus Columbia, der mit mir nach
Brazoria zu Mr. Mills ritt, wo nach winden und drehen, er
endlich meine Offerte annahm. Mit Leiningen war ich
uebereingekommen fuer diese herrliche league bis zi 1 D.
per acre zu gehen und kann die Freude nicht beschreiben,
die ich innerlich fuehlte, aber wohl zu verbergen wusste,
als nach mehr als 2 Stunden Unterhandlung, er endlich ja
sagte.” (Boos Waldeck, Anlage zum General-Bericht, no date,
SBA 50: 170)
B-W suggests in another report (SBA 50: 40) that he used
the invasion of San Antonio by Gen. Adrian Woll as a
favorable moment to buy the plantation.
opinion of Robert Mills
“….ehe ich mit Mr. Mills in Unterhandlung getreten,
dessen anerkannten, ehrenwerthen Charakter, ungetruebter
Ruf als Kaufmann seit 15 Jahren in Texas lebend, dem seine
cirkulierenden Noten die pari Stellung verdanken, der
Besitzer zweier grossen und unbelasteten Plantagen, jede
mit 50 negern…ich durfte mit Ruhe den Handel
abschliessen.” (Boos Waldeck, Anlage zum General-Bericht,
no date, SBA 50: 171)
a good deal
“Unserer Ueberzeugung folgend, dass…die Amerikaner..nie
unterjocht werden koennten,…,benutzten wir den guenstigen
Moment, und kauften das Terrain von Nassau, um weniger als
1/3 seines fruehren u. jetzigen Werthes.” Boos-Waldeck
Bericht, May, 1844 (SBA 30: 41)
February 1843 thru October 1843
B-W occupied with Nassau, (B-W Bericht, April 1844, SBA 30:
40.) The houses are built, 80 acres of rented and prepared
land is planted in corn in March and harvested in Sept.,
logs are split for fencing, plowing commenced in the fall
for the spring planting
By February
14 February 1843
Boos-Waldeck ships out of New Orleans for Galveston on the
Neptune with 11 slaves, 3 wagons, and 190 Centnern of
objects of all sorts. The trip takes 48 hours. They get a
$1,000 of the wares toll free since both he a Wilhelm
(Etzel) declare themselves to be immigrants. Pays a tariff
of $62.50 on the rest. Has to reload on to another
steamship for Houston where he looses a case of excellent
Collins axes. Boos-Waldeck Bericht, May, 1844 (SBA 30: 42)
March, 1843
Building of the Herrenhaus commences Boos-Waldeck Bericht
(SBA 30: 46)
May 43
Leiningen returns to Europe (Solms recapitulation and summary, SBAt 40, 113)
1 June 43
Viktor leiningen returns and gives reports see Castell to
B-W, 24 Mai bzw 1 Juni 43, SBA, I, 80.
18 June 43
“…wurde der zu Biebrich abgehaltenen Generalversammlung
der Verein fuer constituirt erklaert.” (Darstellung der
algemein. Vereinsangelegenheiten, 13 June 47, SBA 28: 35-
157)
Took the name “Verein zum Schutz…(Sbat 40, 114)
19 June 43
resolution adopted to send Castell to texas (SBA XXX, 103-
105)
July 1843
Boos-Waldeck comes down with a fever for the first time,
cures himself thru a generous doseage of “Rhabarbar” and
stomache remedies. After a cold, comes down with another
fever in Sept. An American advised him to take 25 Gran of
Calomel. He improves momentarily, but in a few days has a
relapse and such a high fever that he sends for Dr. Manley
in Rutersville, before that the Overseer bled him–too much
he fears, the dr. then gives him 55 gran of calomel, and he
feels himself more dead than alive. He can’t shake the
fever which lasts through Sept to the 22nd of October.
(B-W Bericht, SBA 30: 55, 56)
September 1843
Castell due to travel to Texas, that is, Boos-Waldeck and
Fordtran assume as early as February that he so intends.
(B-W Bericht, SBA30, 65) Apparently Castell announced his
intention to do so in a personal letter to B-W sometime
early in 1843. (B-W an Castell, 11 July 43, SBA 50: 243)
1 September 1843
Fisher and Miller sign a new contract with Sam Houston
(Seele 19) Fischer bericht, SBAt LIII, 153.
****
harvest of the corn on the rented land begun, 40 bushels a
wagonload x 38 loads (B-W Bericht, SBA 30: 48)
4 Sept 43
Fisher and Miller sign contract with the Republic of Texas
- 3,878,0000 acres
- responsibility of Fisher to deal with Comanches (Kapp, Aus u. über Akerika, 259)
16 Sept 43
date of letter from Castell to B-W (SBA I, 100) States that
he agrees with B-W that for the time being cannot use their
capital to colonize but ratther to improve the plantation. In
addition to the 20,000 fl. already sent will send an
additional 10,000 fl. Expresses hope that will receive a
million Gulden from the governments. Need trade concessions
but problems here.
19 September 1843
Verein signs contract with d’Orvanne and Ducos, for
contract see (SBA 48a: 33-39) The contract is approved by
the Verein the following year as reflected in the
protoicoll of 25 March 1844 and 3 April 1844 (SBA 48a, 34)
Terms:
1) B d’O member of Society with three votes
2) will orgnize the administration in Texas together with
Solms
1 October 1843
“..wurde regelmaessig die Prairie aufzubrechen begonnen.”
(B-W Bericht, SBA 30: 48)
16 October 43
President Tyler, a slaveholder, opened opened negotiations
for the annexation of Texa by treaty. (Barker, 369)
10 November 1843
Fordtran arrives at Nassau with a wagon and effects after a
journey from Houston? (Fordtran, SBA 50: 12)
10 November 43
Boos meets with Fischer in Galveston and procures a letter of intro to the Society (Tiling, 69) He sent this letter March 12 from bremen; Castell acknowledged recepeit on May 18th
15 November 1843
Boos-Waldeck writes Castell from Galveston. Apparently much
of his earlier correspondence went down with the steamer
Sarah Barnes. On the advice of his doctors intends to spend
a couple of months in the West Indies and then in Feruary
will take an English ship back to Europe. (Boos-Waldeck an
Castell, SBA 50: 254)
Has engaged Fordtran
25 November 1843
The slaves Boller (Butler), Washington and his brother flee
on horseback with tools (Fordtran letter 2-14-44, SBA 50:
?)
1844
Polk wins the election on the slogan “All of Oregon, All of
Texas.”
January 1844
Fordtran’s wife hosts the von Roeders who are there for races (L, 16) They lose everything.Towndsend.
Corn costs 25 cents a bushel delivered; bought a hundred bushels
Pork 1 ½ dollars for a hundred pounds, climbed to 2, 2 ½ dollars.(L, 17)
A mild winter, nobody sick
22 January 1844
MacDonald said he saw slaves (Fordtran, SBA 50: 11) the
brothers got away but Botler surrenders. Bryant puts him in
irons with a collar with spikes and chains (12)
30 January 1844
Eigth Texas Congress repeals previous colonization Law due
to abuses by several contractors. (Solon, 13) “The act also
declared all contracts already made forfeited, if the
contractors had not complied strictly with the terms of the
contract, and allowed no extension of time to allow them to
carry the contract into effect.” (Solon, 14)(Gammel, Laws of Texas, II, 958.)
13 Jan 44
Generalversammlung (Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA 28: 35-
157)
B-W returns to Germany
5 February 44
Fordtran goes to Washington to spread news and tell newspaper
15 February 1844
B-W sends letter to Graf Castell concerning proposed visit
of the same with his wife at Nassau (SBA 50: 27); viz.
Biesele, 100, Castell planning to move with family
February 1844
Bryant gets 100 acres plowed, 40 for corn, 60 for cotton
(Fordtran, SBA 50: 14) delayed because of bad weather
receives watch and chain from Boos-Waldecl (L, 18)
12 March 1844
Fisher departs on the Weser for Bremen (Biesele, 81)
25 March 1844
Generalversammlung at Mainz: (SBA 30: 71, 72;
Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA 28: 35-157)
1)By-laws modified
2)the question of colonization is affirmed
3) Contract ratified between Castell and Bourgeois
d’Orvanne
4)Comite charged with carrying out the tasks necessary
5)Solms and B d’O named to go to Texas
6) Castell’ proposed finacial plan is approved; the Comite
is empowered to issue 10 new shares, and to open up a
line of credit for 70,000 Gulden either on the surety of
the Verein or with individual members of the Verein.
7) The Plantation will be retained and put under the
authority of the Colonial-Direktion
8) The banking house of F.L.H. Flersheim is designated to
be the financial operative and a contract to this end
will be concluded
9) a “Oprual-Register” will be maintained from now on
concerning the consultations of the General Assemblies
10) Castell elected as business director
–officers elected and a constitution drawn up. An elective
executive committee of three members and an elective
business director to have charge of the administration.
Count Castell made business director (Solon, 46)
Society for the Protection of German Emigrants formed,
Bourgeois was elected to membership and placed with Prince
Carl of Solms-Braunfels on the Society’s Commissariat for
Colonization. (Biesele, 74) In the meantime, however, the
Bourgeois- Ducos contract had been forfeited by the
Congress of Texas
statues of Verein published as “Gesammelte Aktenstuecke”
1 April 1844
runaway slaves return and inquired of Hockley, another
slave, what happened to Butler. The two slaves were
eventually killed in San Antonio, (Biesele, 103, also
contained in S-B’s first Bericht from Nassau.)
3 April 44
Generalversammlung continued (Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA
28: 35-157)
Fuerst v. Lein elected president
called mainly to ge the approval of the measures voted on
in the March assembly approved by Duke Nassau who wasn’t
present then.
Bericht given by Boos Waldeck of his experiences in Texas
in which he voiced his opposition to Colonization plans;
Castell countered, Boos Waldeck resigns
7 April 1844
” den Kontrakt (between Orvanne and the Verein) einfach und
ohne Weiteres anzunehmen, so dass derselbe von diesem Tage
an vollstandig in Kraft tritt.” (SBA 48a: 34)
9 April 1844
The first official public proclamation .
The Verein publishes an outline of purposes of the Verein.
(Solon, 37 refers to the Colonization Papers in the Texas
State Library; Seele, The Cyprus, 19; SBA 28: 119)
9 April 44
Officiall call for settlers by Verein (Offizieller Aufruf der Mainzer Vereinsdirektion, 9.IV.44.)Sehm,14
23 April 44
Relationship with the banking firm Flersheim established by
a contract (Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA 28: 161)
13 May 44
Prince Solms departs from Bingen by way of Liverpool for Boston (Kapp, Aus und über Akerika, Vol. 1, 256)
25 May 44
contract between Castell and Dr. Burkhardt whereby the Dr.
was to take over the administration of the plantation. (SBA
58: 3-6)
20 April 1844
Committee of Directors resolved to appoint Solms-Braunfels
Commissioner General and Bourgeois Colonial Director
(Biesele, 74) see above
22 April 44
Col Dangerfield enters into a trade contract with the free
cities of Hamburg, Bremen, and luebeck (SBA 48a, 63)
23 April 44
Verein enters in to a contractual relationship with the
banking house Flersheim–terms given (SBA 28: 161-167)
30 April 44
Solms in Paris with B d’O. Together they compose lettterrs
to Prince Albert and to the King of Belgium. (SBA 48a, 66)2
May 1844
Solms given the job by the “Direktion” to go, to Texas to
establish the first settlement of the Society (SBA 30: 158)
3 May 1844
Society issued a charter by the Duchy of Nassau (Biesele,
69; Seele, 18)
10 May 1844
Solms departs from Liverpool in the company of Bourgeois
(SBA 30: 158)
18 May 1844
Orvanne writes Castell that he has met with prince Albert
in London and that “… die Unterstutzung der Regierung ist
uns entscieden gesichert, Lord Aberdeen empfiehlt den
Verein an den englischen Gesandten in Texas, mit der
Weisung uns den Erfolg unseres Unternehmens zu erleichtern.
” (SBA 48a: 26)
25 May 1844
Dr. Burkhardt fuer die Plantage bestimmt (SBA 58: 3); Sein
Anstellungskontrakt, 25.5.44, seine Pflichten auf der
Plantage (SBA 58: 4)
24 April 1844
31 May 1844
Solms and Bourgeois arrive in Boston (SBA 30: 158)
April 44
Fischer in Bremen and actively soliciting investors in his
grant and in a short time gets 415 stockholders at 100 r.
each–a significant competition for the Verein
(Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA 28: 50)
1 June 44
“Der vom Grafen Boos eingesetzte Overseer Bryan wurde infolge
starken Trunkes so elend, das er am ersten Juni d. j. (1844)
sein Geschaeft aufgeben musste, ein Glueck…” S-B Bericht 15
July 44, (SBA 40, 3)
June 1844
conditions for the emigrants published (SBA 28: 119)
3 June 44
Solms and B d’O due to arrive in Boston; 15 in new Orleans;
20th or 25th in Galveston (SBA 48a, 67)
8 June 1844
U.S. Senate rejects treat for the annexation of Texas
13 June 44
Verein issues a circular in which it requests that a
seperate account be set up to provide for the free
transportation to Texas of some indigant families through
the voluntary contribution of the membership. Hermann
Fuerst zu Neuwied rejects this suggestion. (SDBA 1: 205
bzw. 209)
Castell issues “Einladung zur Privatsubscription” in order
to send over some destitute families (SBA 1: 185)
15 June 44
B d’O and Solms in New Orleans
16 June 1844
Woll informs Houston that hostilities have been resumed
(Barker, 370)
21 June 44
B d’O letter to castell from New Orleans (SBA 48a, 91-112)-
-interesting lettter on several counts–first grumblings by
d’O that he is not being treated right by Solms–Solms
grants a private audience to Castro–d’O says he cannot be
an employee and a director of the Society at the same time-
-his role is indispensable–if Solms tries to arrange and
buy things, everybody will jack up the price of goods–
shows that he is a businessman–gives exchange rate (109)–
proposes issuing own currency to avoid 6 to 9% loss on
exchange–discusses Fischer’s grant and extension
24 June 1844
date given in Fayette D/192 (Indenture of Dec. 30, 1845
between Meusebach and Fischer & Miller) as the date of tyhe
agreement mentioned below, Seele also gives this as the
date (Seele, 19)
Date of contract beteen Fischer and Miller, einerseits, and Verewin, andererseits abgeschossen. (Contract reproduced in SBA 40, 137-142) included in Fischer letter to Spies of 4 Oct 47.(SBA 40, 132-136)
26 June 1844
Fisher associates himself with the Adelsverein (Biesele,
81) The Society buys an interest in the Fisher-Miller Grant
–see terms in Biesele, 82, also see copy of contract of 9
Nov 45 in (SBA 51: 214); also,(Fischer to Jones, June 27,
- Fischer Papers, UT.); (Solon, 31)
“… dass der Overseer (Dennmann) sich verbindlich gemacht
hat, bis zum ersten December ds. j. fuer das Gehalt von
monatlich $25 die Plantage zu fuehren, nacher aber dafuer
sich zu nichts verbunden haelt. ….jedoch scheint Denmann
ein ausgezeichnetes Individum zu sein..” S-B Bericht, 15
July 44 (SBA 40, 8)
1 July 1844
S-B arrives in Galveston with Bourgeois (SBA 30: 158) .
wird mit Kanonnenschuese begruesst. (Orvanne’s report, SBA
48a: 115 ; Prince Solm’s report in letter to Castell 4
July 44 in SBA, 49: 150) Orvanne has accompanied Prince
Solms all the way from Europe. Bourgeoise hopes to get his
contract renewed. From Galveston Solms goes to Washington-
on-the-Brazos by way of Houston; in Wash. he has several
conferences with Anson Jones, and from there he goes to
Nassau. (SBA 30: 158; also see d’Orvanne’s Tagebuch in
SBA 48a: 154+)
The’Orvanne grant expires th very day they arrive (Kapp, Aus u. über Akerika, 257)
3 July 1844, 10 o,clock in the morning
Solms and d’Orvanne depart Galveston for Houston. “7 Uhr
abends waren sie in Houston. Dort fanden sie die gleiche
Sympathie auf Seiten der Bevoelkerung dieser Stadt. Man
begreift die Wichtigkeit des Vereins u. seiner
Unternehmung. Eine Salve von 21 Kanonenschuesse begruesste
den Prinzen von Solms bei seiner Ankunft.” (d’Orvanne
Tagebuch, SBA 48a: 153)
They buy an americam horse for the prince for $100 and two
mexican horses for the servants for $75; they rent a wagon
for $20. D’Orvanne comments that the Americans drive a
harder bargain because the prince is a prince.
5 July 1844, 5 or 6 in the evening
The party leaves Houston, they travel toward Washington but
send their party toward Nassau under the direction of
Ducos. (SBA 48a: 153) At 9 0’clock they arrive at
Turkeim’s place 9 miles from Houston. “Hier fing die harte
Lehrzeit in Texas an, schlectes Abendessen, schlechtes
Bett.” (SBA 48a: 154)
6 July 1844, 5 o’clock in the morning
Party departs Turkheims, by 10 o’clock in the evening they
have travelled 19 miles and make camp at a fish pond by
Stevenson’s. (SBA 48a: 154)
7 July 1844
dpart early and arrive in Washington at 10:30 after a
difficult journey through the Brazos bottom. (SBA 48a: 154)
“Der Empfang war auesserst freundlich..”
8 July 1844
Consult with Anson Jones–is positive but regrets that he
cannot approve an extension without the approval of
Congress. Suggests they go on to the Medina to make the
necessary preperations. (SBA 48a: 155) They leave
Washington at & o’clock in the evening after dinner with
Anson Jones; they arrive at Foster’s plantation by 9.
9 July 1844
” Abends 81/2 Uhr erreichten die Bevollmaechtigten (Solms
and d’Orvanne) die Plantage Nassau nach einer Reise von 42
Meilen… Die von Houston direkt gesandten Leute mit
Gepaeck waren noch nicht angekommen. Die Wohnung unter
Aufsicht des Herrn Lessely schien in guter Ordnung.”
Orvanne Tagebuch, SBA 48a: 156)
9 July 1844
Ninety-six colonist arrive in Gaslveston upon the brig
Weser. Brought over by Fischer. (Solon, 53)
10 July 1844
“9 Uhr Morgens kam Herr Fordtran an mit unserer kleiner
Expedition, welche bei ihm hatte uebernachten muessen…”
They are visited by several Germans, a young Dr. Mayer…he
is engaged on a provisional basis by the Prince..
“Plantage Nassau besichtigt, schlecht organisiert, schlecht
gefuehrt, schlechte Anordnung der Feldarbeit, elende
Baracken fuer die Neger, — wenig ehrenvolle Empfehlung
fuer Gross-Grundbesitzer. Das Feld wird dieses Jahr kaum
eine halbe Maisernte geben, man wird Glueck haben, wenn man
15 bis 20 Ballen Baumwolle erntet. Von 90 Acker ist die
Haelfte in Mais, die Haelfte in Baumwolle.” (Bourgeoise
d’Orvanne Tagebuch, SBA 48a: 158)
11 July 1844
“Inventur der Plantage Nassau angefangen. Welche
Verschwendung von Geld ohne Resultate! Eine Plantage, die
eine geschickte und sparsame Verwaltung braucht.– mit 25
000 Gulden haette ein erfahrener Mann mehr fertig gebracht
und haette eine Ernte gleich der des ersten Jahres.”
(Bourgeoise d’Orvanne Tagebuch, SBA 48a: 158)
12 July 1844
“Die Umgebung von Cummings and Mill Creek besucht, viele
Deutsche. Sie moegen reich an Land sein, aber sie sind arm
an Hoffnung. Unter diesen Deutschen befindet sich ein
Botaniker, Namens Lindheimer…” (Bourgeoise d’Orvanne
Tagebuch, SBA 48a: 158)
13 & 14 July 1844
“Auf der Plantage verblieben. Keinerlei Nachricht von
General Houston. Inventur gemacht. Wegen Kolonie und
Plantage an das Komitee geschrieben. Die Inventur
geschickt. “Mr. Denmann, Verwalter der Plantage beansprucht
$500.–Fuer gewisse Accidenzien. Vereinbart, dass er bis
zum Monat December unter den gleichen Bedingungen wie sein
Vorgaenger auf der Plantage verbleibt…An den Praesidenten
und Staatssekretaer geschrieben, und unser Bedauern
ausgedrueckt, dass die Komissaere nicht laenger warten
konnten, und erklaert dass deren Vorschriften sie
verpflichten, ihre Reise fortzusetzen um die Laendereinen
des Vereins zu erforschen.” (Bourgeoise d’Orvanne Tagebuch,
SBA 48a: 159)
15 July 1844
S-B issues his first report from Nassau and agrees with
Bourgeois that Nassau should be sold off; discusses two
runaway slaves; engages Dr. Meyer to be overseer of Nassau;
offers Etzel 100 acres of land if he will come to San
Antonio; Etzel insists on 50 acres of Nassa offered to him
by Boos-Waldeck. (SBA, 40: 1-13a; Biesele, 103)
“… dass der Overseer (Dennmann) sich verbindlich gemacht
hat, bis zum ersten December ds. j. fuer das Gehalt von
monatlich $25 die Plantage zu fuehren, nacher aber dafuer
sich zu nichts verbunden haelt. ….jedoch scheint Denmann
ein ausgezeichnetes Individum zu sein..” S-B Bericht, 15
July 44 (SBA 40, 8)
16 July 1844, 4 O’clock in the afternoon
The company leaves Nassau, consists of Mr. Ducos, Dr.
Mayer, Herr Fordtran, Abt Auger, and 4 servants. “Die
Plantage liefert zur Reise einen Schwebewagen (?) und 2
Maulesel, ein amerikanisches Pferd, und ein pony.–Die
ganze Karawane gut bewaffnet, 2 Diener auf dem Wagen, die
anderen zu Pferd.
********
Solms departs Nassau for San Antonio (SBA 30: 159; SBAt XL, 124)
July and August 1844
Solms visits the area of the Medina and other areas of Texas to familiarize himself (SBAt XL, 125)
17 July 1844
“Bekanntmachung des Vereins ueber Sclaverei.”From the
Frankfurter Journal, No. 196, 17 Juli 1844, SBA 5: 207,
208
“Die Verwerfung des Antrages auf Einverleibung von Texas
in dem Senat- und Representationshaus der Vereinigten Staaten
von Nord Amerika gibt der Unternehmung des “Vereins zum
Schutze Deutschen Einwanderer in Texas” eine groessere
Hoffnung auf ein guenstiges Resultat….(discussion of
Englands and Frances efforts to abolish slavery)…Aus dieser
Ursache ist es daher auch nicht mehr als natuerlich, dass die
Unternehmung des “Vereins”, eine Colonie von deutschen freien
Landbaueren mit gaenzlicher Ausschliessung der Sclavenarbeit
in Texas zu gruenden, sowohl von der Englischen wie von der
franzoesischen Regierung in jeder Weise unterstuetzt wird,
und koennen wir nach authentischer Quelle versichern, dass
die Direktion des “Vereins” schon feste Zusagen in dieser
Beziehung erhalten hat.
Bleibt Texas ein unabhaeniger Staat, so haengt die
Abschaffung der Sclaverei daselbst nur davon ab, dass sich
eine grosse Anzahl freier Buerger darin ansiedelt, welche der
Sclaverei vom Grunde ihres Herzens aus feindlich sind, und
welche sich durch ihre eingegangenen Verpflichtungen schon
gebunden, keine Sclavenarbeit in ihren Anlagen zu dulden. Die
Ausschliessung jeder Sclavenarbeit ist aber das Grundprinzip
des “Vereins”, der sehr wohl weiss, dass er sich vor sich
selbst und vor den Augen ganz Europa’s entehren wuerde,
daechte er je daran, freie Deutsche als Sclavenaufseher nach
Texas zu fuehren oder ueberhaupt die Sclaverei in seinen
Niederlassungen zu dulden…und hoffen wir, dass ihre (the
noblemen who founded the Verein) Unternehmung, unterstuetzt
von ganz Deutschland, recht bald zu einer National-
Gelegenheit werde; vor allem aber, dass die
unverantwortlichen Anfeindungen an Seiten eines TRheiles der
deutschen Presse die Gruender des Vereins in ihren edlen
humanen Streben nicht wankend machen werden!” (SBA 5: 207,
208)
19 July 1844
Fischer made an honorary member of the Verein (SBA 1: 200
bzw. 204)
22 July 1844
Fisher signs contract with Adelsverein
- 12,ooo Gulden bar
- 1/3 of later gross proceeds
- with a $14,000 penalty for breach of contract by Adelsverein
( Kapp, Aus u. über Akerika, 259)
27 July 44
Fisher addresses brem Senate and says pressing business necessitates rreturn to Texas; asks them to appoint Vice- Consul, which they do (Kapp, Aus u. über Akerika, 259)
1 August 1844
Fisher leaves Mainz (Biesele, 82)
9 August 1844
Friedrich von Wrede arrives in Galveston from New Orleans
and is destitute; a Frenchman gives him passage to Lavaca;
intends to go to San Antonio where S-B is, (Wrede, letter,
SBA 50, 33)
according to the General Bericht for 1845 (SBA 30: 146-157)
the younger v. Wrede was a messinger of the Verein who was
to notify Solms that the agreement with was to be thrown
over in favor of an agreement with Fischer..
“Eine dem gelben Fieber aehnliche Krankheit grassierte hier seit einige Zeit” V. Wrede letter 9 August 44, SBAt L, 33
July and August 1844
Solms travels and visits various lands to see if they would
be suitable for a colony (SBA 30: 159)
20 August 1844
S-B issues second Bericht from San Antonio– had inspected
the Bourgeois grant land– all the good land already taken-
-fortunate that the contract had been annulled (Biesele,
104)
23 August 1844
v Wrede arrives at the camp of Solms with orders from the
Direktion, and news that that the Society has entered into contract with Fischer Miller.(Voyage to North America, 55; SBA XXX, 159; SBAt XL, 124)
26 August 1844
S-B issues third report (The Southwestern Historical Quarterly, Volume 40, July 1936 – April, 1937), 14.
27 August 1844
S-B departs, in accordance with his directives, for Nassau
Plantation in order to meet with Fischer. Fischer is not
there when he arrives, so he continues on to Galveston, by
way of Washington, where he meets with Anson Jones once
again. (SBA 30: 159; SBAt XL, 124)
28 August 1844
Bourgeois dismissed as colonial director by S-B (Biesele,
75)
September, 1844
First party of colonists assembles in Bremen
1 September 1844
S-B arrives at Nassau farm on the orders of the executive
committee (Biesele, 108)
1st
Arrived at noon on Sunday the 1st. Etzel deserted. Took half of the things. One Negress is dead, another ran off. Debnman had just arricved. Finished and sealed letters in the evening.
2nd
Dr. Meyer left at 5 a.m.. I was alone with Wrede the whole day. In the evening rode to the farm. James rode on a mule to La Grange.
3rd
James returned with flour, wine, etc. Fordtran rode up at 11 o’clock, er ist blass vor Angst
5 September 1844
The well is started at the house (Solms-Braunfels, Voyage to North America, 1844-45, 65)
12 Sept 44
the cornerstone of the church laid in Castroville. On the
19th more colonists arrived from San Antonio. Meanwhile more
ships with emigrants were being sent to Texas. A total of 27
ships brought 2,134 emigrnats. In 1844 Castro’s contract was
extended for three years. (Julia Nott Waugh, Castro-Ville and
Henri Castro Empresario, San Antonio: Standard Printing Co.,
1934.) quoted in Thomas Lloyd Miller, Public Lands, 42.
15 September 1844
Fisher arrives in Texas (Biesele, 82)
20 September 1844
S-B issues fourth report from Nassau (Biesele, 108)
22
The mattresses and the wine arrive. (Solms-Braunfels, Voyage to North America, 1844-45, 79)
20 October 1844
“Endlich an 20. October langte der von mir so sehnlichst
erwartete Herr Fischer an und schien wenig Eile zu haben.
Er verbrachte einige Tage unnotig in Houston und liess sich
9 Tage in Nassau erwarten, wohin ich zuruckgegangen war.”
(SBA 30: 160; SBAt XL, 125)
“Herr Fischer erst am 20. Oktober in Galveston ankam (XL, 104)
25 October 1844
S-B issues fifth report from Galveston Klaener
appointed as agent for the Society in Galveston (Biesele,
108)
5 November 1844
Solms arrives back at Nassau (SBA 40: 55). Fischer arrives
nine days later ibid.
In November and December the first emigrants arrive in Galveston on the Bremen ships Johann Dethardt, Herschel and Ferdinand which hd departed German in September and October. Etwa 200 Familien; 700 Köpfe) (Kapp, Aus u. über Akerika, 259)
15 Nov 44
265 emigrants from Elsass and Baden have travelled down the
Rhine to go to Texas (from an article in newspaper of 2
July 45) now are complainming bitterly that they have been
left to lanquish by the Verein whichsponsored them. (SBA 5:
225) The Verein issues a press release in whiuch they
maintain that they had not taken in these people and that
all their people are shipped out over Bremen and nonme come
down the Rhine.
16 November 1844
Solms departs with his “army” for Port Lavacca (SBA 40: 55;
30: 160; SBAt XL, 125)
Am 16 November konnte ich mit denjenigen Menschen, welche sich, um den Verein als Soldaten zu dienen, um mich gesammelt hatten, aufbrechen, und am 22 Port Lavacca errieichen (XL, 55)
22 November 1844
S-B arrives at Port Lavaca (Biesele, 109; SBA 40: 55; 30:
160) after a difficult trip during a cold norther
23 november 1844
The brig Johann Dethard arrives in Galveston bringing about 200 families (700 people) (tiling, 74)
23 November 1844
S-B takes a small boot to have a look at the entire bay for
five days and five nights (SBA 40: 57) and chooses Indian
Point as the arrival point (SBA 30: 160), and he lays out
the town of Carlshafen. Then, after 8 days, he takes the
schooner “Tom Jack” to Galveston in order to meet the first
group of emigrants. He arrives in Galveston, after a
stormy passage only to discover that the ship has passed
him in the night on its way to Carlshafen. In 22 hours he
is back on board the “Alert” which aftewr another stormy
passage returns him to Port Lavacca. (SBA 30: 160)
27 November 1844
S-B meets with Fischer at Port Austin on Tres Palacios Bay
ibid. decides on Indian Point as the arrival place
December 1844
Ninth Congress convenes- Fischer attends (Solon, 55)
Legislation passed of importance to Society–see entry
under 29 Jan 45
2 December 1844
S-B and Fischer arrive at Galveston after a trip of four
days (SBA 40: 57) “…Wie gross war daher mein Erstaunen,
als ich erfuhr, dass in der verflossenen Nacht die Schiffe
abgesegelt seien und mich in der Dunkelheit der Nacht
passiert hatten.” ibid.
*******
First immigrant ships arrive in Galveston and sail on to
Port Lavaca (Biesele, 110)
3 Dec 44
Solms has a conference with the American consul, Gen. Duff
Green. Solms feels that Green is here solely to provoke a
war with Mexico. Subsequently writes Kennedy, the English
consul, and suggests a plan of introducing up to 20,000
German men armed with English rifles for the purpose of
defeating the Yankees and keeping Texas independent. (SBA
1: 226-233)
6 December 1844
Fischer signs contract with Durant to be overseer, (SBA 50:
74)
__|________
__________
11 December 1844
S-B arrives at Port Lavaca, where the ship “Johann
Dethard” with its emigrants is docked (SBA 40: 58)
12 December 1844
“… Am 12. morgens ritt ich hinaus (2 miles from Port
Lavacca) und begrusste sie im Namen des Vereins, verlegte
auch sogleich mein Hauptquartier ins Lager.” op. cit.
“Had the pleasure of an introductoion to His Highness Charles Solm Solm, son of the Grand Duke of Braunfels, and who was on his way to the colony of New braunferls of which he was the founder The Prince and suite spent a day and night with us, and the Someryilles. Next evening he came near to land in his vesswel and serenaded us.
General Somerville was a noted laugher—he saw thew Prince’s two attendants dress his highness, that is lift him into his pants, and General Somerville was so overcome with the sight that he broke out ointo one of his famous fits of laughter, and was heard all over the popint. The Prince and suite were all very courteous and polite to us. They wore cock feathers in theior hats, and did not appear quite fitted to frontier life.” (Mary Maverick, 87)
14 December 1844
Directorate acknowledges failure of d’Orvanne grant (Tiling, 71)
17 December 1844
S-B purchases tract of land on Indian Point, from Mr. Whit,
which he names Carlshafen (Biesele, 110; SBA 40: 59)
Reasons for Carlshafen: op. cit.
23 December 1844
S-B issues sixth report from Carlshafen.(Biesele, 114; SBA
40: 55-67). -arrival of first ship, magazine, purchase of
Indian Point, Aqua Dulce, plan for ingress to the
fountains, etc. -difficulty has arisen with Fischer
because he appointed Klaener to agent and Fischer appointed
Kaufmann – addendum Deals with Nassau, but is dated from
the 14 July 44 (SBA 40: 92) “…eine des Vereins nicht
genug wuerdige Sache sei.” (op. cit.) mentions Ernst’s
toast (op. cit., 93); replaced Fordtran with v. Wrede,
after Fordtran did not produce an inventory. Fisher is
present and takes on the job of supplying the inventory,
(SBA, ?: 31-32) see also Wrede letter to Meusebach of 10
July 45 (SBA 51: 175) Wrede is sent to New Orleans for 5
months on Verein business, that is until the end of May, 45
********
- C. Ervendberg conducts protestant services in camp at
Carlshafen (Biesele, 115; SBA 64: 65)
Bericht ueber die Plantage Nassau, Aus dem Lager bei Lavacca, 23 Dec. 44, SBAt L, 31,32
29 December 1844
last of settlers arrive at Carlshafen from Galveston
(Biesele, 115)
30 December 1844
Wrede acknowledges his position as supervisor of Nassau and
thanks Graf von Castell; acknowledges “Verluste” (Wrede,
letter of 12-30-44 in (SBA 50: 29)
1845
1845
York sells the W. Townsend homesite which is next to the
Jack league to Silas Sherman and moves to DeWitt county,
seventy miles southwest. According to Mrs. Rosa Kleburg,
sister of Albert von Roeder Col Pettus and Capt. “York
persuades us to move to DeWitt County. “Our neighbors were
Pettus, York, Scott, Bell and Albert von Roeder. (Shuffler,
6)
1 January 1845
Durant assumes the overseership of the plantation.
Contract, made by Fisher, reproduced in Wrede letter,
Wrede, report, 20 May 45, (SBA 50: 63-74)
3 January 1845
Solms gets all of the first group of emigrants united at
Aqua Dulce (SBA 30: 160) “Umsonst hatte ich auf die von
Herrn Fischer verheissenen Transportmittel gewartet.”
Sobald ich einsah, dass Herr Fischer Amerikaner geworden
war, zaehlte ich nicht laenger auf ihn…
5 January 1845
S-B issues seventh report from his camp on the Aqua Dulce
6 January
letter by S-B to Fischer–nature of dispute: S-B claims the
sole right to name the General Agent, and he has named
Klaener. Fischer disputes this right and wants Kaufmann.
Wants Hays and the Rangers as well as all other foreigners
out of the settlement area. Discusses the flag thaat he has
infront of his tent. It is yellow and black. He refuses to
have a star sewn on it.
January thru March 1845
immigrants moved by stages from Agua Dulce to Victoria and
McCoy’s Creek, some 42 miles up the left bank of the
Guadalupe from Victoria (Biesele, 116; SBA 30: 160)
13 January 1845
Wrede hit the road on the business of S-B, (Wrede, 46) Goes to new Orleans to buy supplies. Stayed there till 6 march
19 January 1845
S-B in company with Wrede, a Kammerdiener, Anton Kueck, a
young German named Yordt, and a young Reitknecht, Joseph,
departed from their camp at Aqua Dulce for Houston.
(Wrede, 36)Stayed in Victoria the first night; spent next
night at McHenry farm, 37; the next day reached Columbus
where stayed with the Scot, McRobertson; the next day
reached Mill Creek; from here they split, Joeseph and Anton
to Nassau, Wrede and S-B to Washington where they met and
receieved a report from Fischer the next day; the next day
Yordt is sent back to Nassau; from there they go on to
Houston where they spend a day, and then on to Galveston
29 January 1845
A resolution which Fischer had lobbied for was passed by
the Texas Congress which gave Fisher and the Society until
March 1, 1845 to introduce the first third of the 600
families called for in the contract. For a complete
discussion viz. Solon, 55. Other than the extension the
main thing was that the settlers no longer had to settle on
their lands in order to recieve title to them.
S-B is already chagrined with Fischer and in his official
report to the members of the Verein he downplays the
accomplishments of Fischer, for the concessions which he
received from the legislature were very important. (SBA 30:
161) for his remarks.
11 Feb 45
interesting deposition filed and attested to by Klaener in
Galveston from 5 German immigrants to the effect that they
had come to Texas with the intention of settling in the
vereingebiet but H.F. Fiscer and others had convinced them to
go to the Schubbert Colony instead (SBA 40: 97)
12 February 1845
S-B issues eighth report from Galveston.. Reported that the
Colonial Council had decided to send v. Wrede to New
Orleans to procure the necessary supplies, which, according
to S-B, Fisher had failed to supply (Biesele, 113, 114)
23 Feb 45
Solms departs Galveston for Carlshafen (Solms Berichrt, 5
March 45, SBA 40: 82)
24 February 1845
Solms tenders his resignation as Commissioner-General
(Solon, 59; cites Benjamin, 47) Meusebach appointed to succeed him (Tiling, 79)
25 Feb 45
Solms arrives at carlshafen at 1 in the morning (Solms
Bericht, 5 March 45, SBA 40: 82)
27 Feb 45
Solms arrives in Victoria where the magazine has been
temporarily placed (Solms Bericht, 5 March 45, SBA 40: 82)
28 Feb 45
Joint resolution passed by the Congress of the U.S. defing
the terms of annexation (Barker, 370) England and France,
as well as Mexico, were greatly opposed to the annexation
of Texas bu the U.S., and on Jan 12, 1844, before the
treatyn was negotiated, Lord Aberdeen instructed the
Britisch ambassador to France to sound the French
government and learn whether it would cooperate with
England in”deprecating all interference on the part of the
U.S. in the affairs of Texas. France was acquiescent, on
May 29th Aberdeen outlined to the Mexican minister at
London a plan of operations which he proposed to submit to
France: (1) Mexico must recognize the independence of
Texas, and thereby remove on of the principal motives for
desiring annexation; (2) England would then oppose
annexation, and it was believed that France would join
England not only in guaranteeing the independence of Texas
burt also the boundaries of Mexico. (Barker, 371)
March 45
For a complete picture of Solms activities during this
period when about 400 colonists are camped at victoria and
at McCoy,s Creek (42 miles to the N.) see Solms reports of
the 5th and 27th March (Solms Berichrt, 5 March 45, SBA 40:
82-86, 27 Marz 45, 87-90) Solms is much chagrinned with
Fischer whom he accuses of fomenting distrust and unrest
with his ideas of liberty and freedom. He mentions thaat
their three blacksmiths have put together 14 waggons and
mounted one cannon from their own means.
March 1845
Dr. Emil Meyer named by S-B as replacement for the
Society’s phyiscian Dr Koester (Biesele, 117)
1 March 45
By joint resolution Congress invites Texas to join the
Union–Tyler’s last act as President. (Texas and the War
with Mexico, 68; Barker, 409) President Jones of the
republic called a convention, which on July 4, 1845, passed
an ordinance accepting the proposition. (Barker, 409)
3 March 45
A letter is sent to the Directorate in Germany in which it
is proposed that the verein either buy out Fischer & Miller
or advance them a “Caution,” a deposit in the case that
their contract is not fulfilled. The dispute comes down to
this; F&M do not believe that the instructions which Solms
has brought along are consistent with the contract. The
letter is sighned by Fischer, Miller, Solms, Zink, Dr.
Koester, and v. Coll–i.e by all members of the
Colonialrath. The letter really should be an Anhang to
Solms report, but is not presented as such in the SBA. (SBA
40: 96)
3 march 45
Texas question settled on last day of Tyler’s administration signed a joint resolution of Congress authorizing the annexation of Texas. (Tiling, 116)
4 March 45
James K. Polk takes office as President–three weeks later
Mexico breaks off relations with the U.S. and preperations
for war with the U.S. begin on a grand scale. Polk counters
by ordering Gen. Zachary Taylor to Corpus Christi on the
Texas coast (Texas and the War with Mexico, 69) 600 troops arrive in March. (Klaener an Castell, 3/8/45 SBAt 56, 8. complete account in Klaener
6 March 1845
Wrede is in New Orleans on a mission for S-B to buy a lot
of stuff and then ship it to Matagorda. As soon as this
business is over with intends to return to Nassau, which he
has not seen up this point. Hears serious doubts about the
plan to send colonists to the Hill Country, and doubts
about Fischer, and as a result will put off a planned
letter to Europe intended for publication to extoll the
benefits of membership in the Verein.
10 March 1845
the party is ready to leave the camp at McCoy’s creek. S-B
leaves the party a few days ahead of time for San Antonio
(Biesele, 117; SBA 30: 160) Solms later accuses Fischer
of agitating and inciting the colonist against him in the
camp (op. cit.) ” Ich habe die in der zwischenzeit
vorgefallenen und seiner Zeit berichteten Intriquen des
Herrn Fischer, so wie sein Benehmen in Lager, wo er die
Emigranten gegen mich aufzuwiegeln suchte…. jedoch nicht
das angeborne Vertrauen der Deutschen zu einem deutschen
Fursten selbst in fernen, wilden, von Freiheitsschwindel
ergriffenen Lande zu erschutten vermochte.” see also(Solms
Bericht, 5 March 45, SBA 40: 82)
11 March thru 14 March 1845
S-B arrives in San Antonio and carries on negotiations with
Juan A. Veramendi and Rafael C. Garza for a tract of land
containing two leagues Biesele, 117) (Solms Bericht, 27
March 45, SBA 40: 87)
15 March 1845
S-B signs the deed (Biesele, 118)
16 March 45
S-B rides to Sequin where he meets Zink and v. Coll and 13
men. He marches on the sdame day 5 miles further up the
Guadalupe. In the night a norther blows through. On the
18th he crosses the Guadalupe on the Fuerth at the
Nacodoches Rd.
21 March 1845
The official date for the founding of New Braunfels the
immigrant wagons arrived on this date (Biesele, 118)
” Am 21. Maerz passierte die erste Colonne der Emigranten
die Guadaloupe, worauf taeglich wagen folgten.”
(SBA 30161; SBAt XL, 126); “1,500 hundred acres for $800” (Kapp, Aus u. über Akerika, 259)
24 March 1845
Wrede arrives with the goods at Indian Point on the
schooner William Bryan; speculates that Mategorda Bay would
make a better harbor for the emigrants than Lavaca;
speculates that there will soon be steam service as far as
Columbus, and from there to the Colony one would have a
high road to travel. Utters a prophetic Statement
concerning the danger of Indians: “ein kleiner Ueberfall
wird ganz Dtld. in grosser Bewegung setzen.” (SBA 50: 51)
27 March 1845
S-B issues tenth report from camp in Comal Creek
3 April 1845
Wrede departs Indian Point for New Braunfels in a wagon
with four mules; arrives on the 16th; intends to go to
Galveston as a messenger; hears from his son who has passed
Nassau that the fields are in good order, (SBA 50: 59)
9 April 1845
Solms begins to lay out the fort (SBA 30: 162)
12 April 45
Meusebach departs New Orleans for Galveston (SBA 40: 79)
The news of the American proposal (for annexation) spread
like wildfire throughout the republic so that by April 12,
almost every county had held a pubic demonstration. These
meetings were almost unanimous in their demands for prompt
acceptance. (Barker, 382)
21 April 1845
Meusebach arrives in Texas as successor to Solms (Solon,
60; Tiling, 79)
28 April 1845
cornerstone to the Sophienburg laid (Biesele, 121; SBA 30:
162)
30 April 1845
S-B issues eleventh and last report.. much about the
progress and problems with the foundation of New Braunfels
(Biesele, 121)
2 May 1845
Wrede issues a report “ueber die Kolonie” (SBA 50: 58-62)
3 May 1845
Wrede leaves New Braunfels, arrives the 13 in Galveston
(SBA 30: 174)
6 May 1845
Wrede arrives at Nassau, (SBA 50: 63); Meusebach leaves
Nassau for Matagorda, (SBA 50: 71)
12 May 1845
Wrede confers with Fischer in Houston, confirms Durant
contract, (SBA 50: 65) v. Coll issues a report from New
Braunfels says that a lot of the wares disappeared between
Indian Point and NB.. He blames Zink for this since he had
things loaded up willy-nilly without inventories.
15 May 1845
Solms-Braunfels departs New Braunfels (Geue, 20; Biesele,
122; SBA 30: 162) He has been awaiting his successor, v.
Meusebach. There is an interesting divergence here between
the stories of S-B and Meusebach. S-B says he found out
about M’s arrival in Gonzales and awaited him there, from
whence Meusebach accompanied him to Galveston.
17 May 45
Solms meets Meusebach in Gonzales (SBAt XL, 126) He accompanies Solms to Galveston
? May 1845
Sometime late in May (after S-B had departed) Meusebach
arrives in N.B. to find the finances in a state of disarray
(Biesele, 123)
20 May 1845
Wrede writes report to General Directorate of the Verein
number 3 about Nassau; This report appears in both v 30 and
V 50 of the SBA and is the same; hears from Ernst that
Fordtran and Denneman hatched a plot to free the slaves,
(SBA 50: 67); intends to replace Durant with a married
German, 68.; the administration is too expensive; the work
of the “14” slaves is too spread out to be effective, 68;
the main house needs to be rented out and is too far away
to be the house of either himself or the overseer, 69.
(SBA 50: 63-73; SBA 30: 174-183)
25 May 1845
Wrede writes report number 4 to the General Directorate.
Expands on his ideas of splitting up Nassau into many small
farms with German renters, (SBA 50: 75)
29 May 1845
Meusebach and S-B arrive at Galveston -v. Wrede (SBA 50:
81), Wrede intends to accompany Meusebach to Nassau, where
M intends to stay until everything is “in Ordnung”. Wrede
adds in a postscript that Meusebach does not concur with
his suggestions about Nassau. M. conveys to him that the
Plantation has incurred a debt of 70,000 Gulden ($28,000)
up to this point. (SBA 50: 82)
Meusebach had travelled to Galveston from New Braunfels to
catch up with S-B who was intent on returning to Europe. M.
wanted an explanation for all the debts that had been
incurred. Accord. to Biesele, 123-4, he got no satisfactory
explanation from the Prince.
According to Solon, the prince had an attachment against
his person in Galveston, which Meusebach lifted on
condition that Solms would urge the company to furnish him
with an immediate credit of $20,000 (Solon, 60; Tiling,
79)
31 May 45
Meusebach report (Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA 28: 56)
3 June 1845
Meusebach issues first report from Galveston (SBA 30: 163)
4 June 1845
S-B departs from Galveston to New Orleans(SBA 30: 162)
11 June 1845
S-B writes to Meusebach from New Orleans about the debts
there as well as the indignities he had suffered (Biesele,
124, refers to the Henry Francis Fischer papers: Henry
Francis Fischer Papers, 2: 299)
25 June 45
Official date of agreement between Fischer and Miller and the society
21 June 45
The Interior Ministry of Wuerttemberg officially notifies
Society that it cannot support it, or recommend it or even
allow its agents in Wuettemberg. (SBA LVIII, 21)
4 July 1845
Convention called by President Jones accepts the offer of
annexation Barker, 409)
10 July 1845
Meusebach issues second report from Houston (SBA 30: 163)
advises against further association with Fischer and
Miller. Optimistic tone despite recognition of mistakes.
********
Wrede reports to Meusebach on what he did while in New
Orleans, what he needs for a salary to be administrator of
Nassau, and what is going on there at the moment
28, 29 July 1845
General Versammlung in Wiesbaden. (SBA 30) A very important
Generalbericht is prepared for the members which outlines
the goals and purposes of the Verein. (SBA 30: 146-157)
(Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA 28: 35-157)
Castell gives a general report, summary of same in:
(Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA 28: 49)
Solms gives a general report (Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA
28: 51, 52)
Castell then makes several other documents (aktenstuecke)
reports available to the assembly including v. Wrede’s
reports concerning Nassau plant.(52)
- two Meus. reports of 3 and 10 June 45
- v. Coll report
- two reports of the plantation Vewrwalter
- several letters of settlers in New Brnfls.written toi
their relatives in Germany
- a general overview of accounts up till July 1845
- the outline of an agreement with Fischer
- a facsimi;ie of a proposed article to be sent to several
newspapers
following Beschluesse:
first settlement declared to be a success, therefore the
comite empowered to continue with the emigration, and
especially enough to,fulfill the contractual obligations of
the society
From the stock capital 45,000 fl. is still available,
another 200,000 authorized but with the express condition
that this will have to suffice to get 6,000 families to
Texas (54) They will attempt to do this through selling
more shares–but only among existing members–but should
this not suffice the committee is empowered to take out a loan
which will be retired by a charge to each share (55)
approves Meusebach’s Abfindung with Fischer
31 July 45
General Zachary Taylor arrives at Corpus Christi with 1,400
American troops. (Texas and the War with Mexico, 69)
August 1845
Meusebach issues report which is dated 1 March… This has
to be wrong. From the text it was probably written in New
Brnfls. prior to his trip north, prior to the blow up with
Fischer. hence probably written in late July or early
August (SBA 51: 133-143)
- leaves N. B. to look for another suitable site for a
settlement. He settled on the area which became Frbg. and
upon his return at the end of October bought 10,000 acres
of head right land on credit. (Biesele, 139)
1 September 1845
The 14,000 Florins due Fischer by the terms of the
agreement of June 26, 1844 due in New Orleans (Solon, 39)
8 September 1845
Meusebach writes Castell about…”Der fortwaehrende
gaenzliche Mangel an Geld hervorgerufen dadurch, dass ich
den eroeffeneten credit fast gaenzlich zur Bezahlung der
dringendsten vom Prinzen hinterlassenen Schulden verwenden
musste.” (SBA 51: 169) In this letter goes on to give the
Prince his due but there is one thing he cannot forgive the
prince, that in an exchange of letters with the English
Gesandten, he said that the emigration to Texas from
Germany had one purpose, namely to bring into the state a
..”gehoerige Masse.” (op. cit., 170)
- recommends keeping Durand as overseer rather than v.
Wrede
9 Sept 45
Meusebach 2nd report (Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA 28: 56)
A circular is prepared for all the stockholders which
includes M’s reports of May and Sept as well as ships lists
5 October 1845
Protestant congregation organized in New Braunfels under
the direction of Ervendberg (Biesele, 126)
13 October 45
Ordinance and constitution for a new state ratified by
popular vote.(Barker, 409)
21 October 1845
Trunk of goods sent from Germany to Nassau as per May
request of Wrede, (SBA 50: 83)
24 Oct 45
Von Wrede and von Claren killed by Indians. On October 24, 1845, while camping on a return trip from Austin to New Braunfels, von Wrede and Oscar von Clarenqvwere killed and scalped by Indians at a place referred to as Live Oak Spring, ten to twelve miles from Austin, probably near Manchaca Springs. They were buried at the site of the massacre by United States soldiers, who gave them military honors.
26 Oct 45
Castell writes Klaener: “Da wir beeit seit dem 10. Juli
ohne alle Nachrichten von Meus. sind…” (Castell an
Klaener, 26 Oct. 45, SBA 56: 10)
November 1845
Meusebach receives word that the Society will be sending
over 4304 emigrants in the winter of 45-6 and that it had
established a credit of $24, 000 with a New Orleans firm.
By this time, however, the Society’s debts in Texas had
reached this amount. Therefore, there was no money for the
emigrants soon to arrive at Carlshafen.. (Biesele, 126)
********
“Endlich nach qualvoller langer Ungewissheit kam die
Nachricht von $26,000 am 2. Nov., zugleich mit der
Nachricht von Landung neuerer und Verschiffung grosser
Massen von Emigranten.” (Meusebach Bericht, 20 Jan. 46,
SBA 52: 45)
1 Nov 45
Meusebach returns from his trip to the mountains and
hunting grounds of the Indians (Meusebach Bericht, 10 Nov
45, SBA 51: 196) Meets with Fischer and Miller and they
come to an under standing
9 Nov 45
settlement contract with Fischer concluded (SBA 28: 58)
11 November 1845
Cappes sends Meusebach a letter requesting that he get
Fordtran to return the watch presented not by the society
but by the Fuerst von Neuwied (SBA 51: 127-128)
Dec 1845
Solms back in Wurope and marries Sophie (Kapp, Aus u.über Amerika, 260)
24 December 1845 thru 14 February 1846
Meusebach in Galveston with the incoming immigrants
(Biesele, 130) during this time a total of 27 ships brought
3236 immigrants to Galveston (Biesele, 128)
30 December 1845
The association of Fischer & Miller with the Society is by
mutual agreement terminated, and the Verein took over the
complete administration of the Colony. (SBA 53: 153) In
this report Fischer gives a complete history of his
involvement with the Verein.
terms:
$5,000 settlement $3,500 up front; $1,000 0n draft to
Ambrose & Lauper (New Orleans); $500 due April 1st, ’46
middle Dec 45 till middle Feb 46
expedition of 36 men set out from N.B. under direction of
Bene to survey Frdsbg
Fischer Intrigue SBAt 28, 190)
29 Dec 45
Annexation ratified by a joint resolution of the U.S.
(Barker, 409)
1846
1 January 1846
Wilke enters into office as overseer of Nassau plantation
(Huber, 62; Pachtvertrag, Anhang, Fayette Deed D/536)
20 January 1846
Meusebach writes report from Galveston to Castell–very
interesting– criticizes various officials from Cappes to
Solms. Also v. Coll
3 February 46
Circular to the stockholder with a letter from Meusebach
from 15 Nov. 45 (Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA 28: 58)
19 February 46
President Anson Jones handed over executive authority to Pinckney Henderson, first governor of Texas. (Tiling, 117)
25 February 1846
Expedition under direction of Bene departs from New
Braunfels on orders from von Coll who has received
authority from Meusebach who is at Nassau (Huber, 47
refers to Cappes to Castell letter of 10-29-46.)
25 Feb 46
Bekanntmachung der bedingungen (SBA28: 132-149)
27 February 46
Soerghel bus 100 acres from Ishon McMillin (D/233)
Spring of 1846
Meusebach travels to New Orleans to try to establish more
credit. Is unsuccessful in his attempt to mortgage Nassau
farm as security for a loan. (Biesele, 127)
On his return, M. confers with Klaener, and they agree to
go public with their accusations against the Society
A credit of $60,000 is opened up at once (July, 46) and the
notice of this is brought over by Cappes (Biesele, 127)
This is all discussed in M’s Answer to Interrogatories
March 1846
Alwin Soerghel visits New Braunfels. What he sees leads
him to write his book, Fuer Auswanderungslustige, which is
critical of the Society, and also to return to Cummings
Creek where he bought more land (Biesele, 133). He returns
to New Braunfels in January of 1847 and reports on the
great change that has occurred in Neueste Nachrichten aus
Texas (op.cit.)
6 March 1846
Meusebach makes the acquaintence of Dr. Schubbert (Baron
Sch. von Brueckenau??) in Houston and hopes to “win him
over for our enterprise, and he is a very practical and
energetic man. (Meusebach to Castell, 3-6-46, SBA 52: 138;
Huber, 41)
7 March 46
Strauss informs Castell he is interested in leasing Nassau
plantation and eventually buying it. (SBA 51: 88)
23 March 1846
Ist wagon train of colonists sets out from N.B. to Frdgsbg.
120 men, women, and children (Biesele, 140)
24 March 1846
first legislature of the State of Texas created Comal
County (Biesele, 129)
April 1846
Meusebach flees to Nassau. (Benjamin, 51.)
For M’s own explanation of this and his responce to his
critics see: Meusebach Bericht, 19 Jan 47, SBA 28: 187, 188
7 April 1846 Fayette Deed Book, D/536-542
Contract between Meusebach and Schubbert for lease of
Nassau plantation. Ammended 8 Jan 47.
Contract begins on the 1st of January 1848 and shall run
for 6 years. The transfer, however, shall take place on
the 1st of August, 1847 and Schubbert shall administer the
plantation for the Verein until he takes over.
17 April 1846
Meusebach to Castell from Nassau, (SBA 52: 169).
28 April 46
the first wagon train of emigrants 80 wagons departs for
Frbg. v. Coll, Indian Point, 5 Feb. 47, an Cappes,
ausfuehrlicher Bericht ueber die elenden Zustaende in der
Colonie, SBA 43: 105.
May and June 1846
“Im May und Juni 1846 gelang es endlich Meusebach, ueber
ein Teil der Schwierigkeiten Herr zu werden. Die
Hindernisse verscwanden allmaehlich, und die weitlauefige
Maschine, die er hatte schaffen muessen, entwickelte ihre
Taetigkeit.” (Soerghel, 288)
6 May 1846
Meusebach writes Castell from Galveston. Stated he was
taking Dr. Schubbert to Nassau in hopes of persuading him
to join the colonization project. “Dr. Ss name M. wrote in
parentheses “Baron Sch. v. Brueckenau??”… S. had been in
charge of the German colony at St. Gabriel (Milam County)
and was associated there with Henry Francis Fischer. They
were both naives of Kassel, Germany. (Marschall-King, 90)
8 May 1846
An act to incorporate the La Vaca, Guadalupe and San Saba Railroad, (Gammel II, 183)s
13 May 1846
The United States declares war on Mexico (Texas and the War
with Mexico, 69)
25 May 46
Castell signs a provisional contract with Hauptmann W.
Strauss, who intends to travel to Texas, to lease with an
option to buy Nassau Pl. (SBA 58: 96-98)
May 46
Roemer visits Nassau; departs June 1 (Roemer, 166)
July 46
Meusebach returns to N.B. from Nassau where he has been for
at least 6 months.
8 July 46
A Generalversammlung was called but only 8 members showed
(not a quorum) Duke Nassau recognizing the gravity of the
situation and there not being enough time to call another
GV, advanced the Verein 200 000 fl. (Darstellung, 13 June
47, SBA 28: 72)
13 July 1846
first election of County officials held in Comal County
(Biesele, 129)
16 July 1846
Meusebach departs Nassau with Schubbert after a 7 month
stay (Coll Bericht , 5.2.47, SBA 43: 98) an incredible
report by Coll of the horror of 1846, and a scathing
indichtment of Meusebach
July 1846
Shubbert treats the sick in New Braunfels (Huber, 44)
*********
$60,000 is sent over with Cappes; the society has to secure
a loan from a bank in Frankfurt am Main. Biesele (p.128
footnote) claims it was with the Rothschilds, but I think
it was with the banking firm Flersheim ( Biesele, 127-128)
In the Vortrag: Gang u. Stand der Angelegenheiten der VSDET
(SBA 28: 71) claims Cappes had 50,000 fl. which the banker of
the Verein (Flersheim) lent them; on the 8th of July a
special GV was called but only 7 appeared, not a quorum.
Adolph v. Nassau therefore advanced the Verein 200,000 fl.
which was immediately sent over.
16 July 1846
Meusebach arrives with Shubbert in New Braunfels (Huber,
43; refers to letter of 2-8-47 of von Coll to Cappes)
30 July 1846
Phillip Cappes arrives in Texas. Assistant director of
Adelsverein in Mainz, came as special commisioner to look
into charges of mismanagement on the part of Meusebach
(Huber, 47) …. and brought the $60,000 line of credit
(Biesele, 127-8) (Soerghel, 288)
11 August 1846 Naturforschender Verein organized
Statutes of the Natural Sciences Society of Texas
- 1. The purpose of the Society is to conduct exact research into all aspects associated with the natural history of Texas
- 2. The Society will accomplish this goal through comprehensive collections, careful observations, meticulous descriptions, and faithful drawings, and also by the establishment of a museum to house the fruits of our investigations.
- 3. To this end, the following five men have joined together as regular members who feel themselves able to contribute according to their respective abilities.
1.) M. Gürth, Director of the Society, principal of a major educational institute in Bonn and member of several natural history societies;
2.) A. Altstädten, secretary of the Society and landowner in Texas;
3.) Capt. Bauer, surveyor and landowner in Texas;
4.) C. Rordorf, painter, copper engraver,[1] and conservator; und
5.) J.A. Gürth, conservator and mechanic.
- 4. The Referendar[2] Siegfried Schulz of Bonn, chief agent of the Society for the Protection of German Emigrants in Texas, has joined the Society as corresponding member.
- 5. Each member is entitled to recommend others for honorary membership.
- 6. The obligations, which each regular member assumes, are as follows:
1) He will work three consecutive years for the Society beginning the day of his arrival In Texas and subordinating all private interests that could hinder the goals of the Society.
2.) Everything collected, wherever it might be located, must be delivered to the Society in a timely fashion and becomes the common property of the Society.
3.) Every member obligates himself to the fullest extent of his ability to contribute to the book the Society intends to publish about Texas and also to diligently turn over all observations and discoveries as well as completed drawings and sketches to the director, who can then present the same to the entire membership for their examination and comparison, and, who after a completed analysis can turn them over to the secretary to catalog in his diary and to secure for preservation.
- 7. The corresponding member of the Society will write the history of the Society in Germany and has the power of attorney to do business in all matters concerning the Society.
- 8. All resolutions concerning the business and activities of the Society come into force through a majority vote of the members.
- 9. The Board of Directors consists for the time being of the director and secretary of the Society.
- 10. The Board of Directors is charged with the task of finding a sponsor and to actively seek the sponsorship of the Society for the Protection of German Emigrants in Texas.
- 11. The sponsor will receive an extensive monthly report concerning the activities and progress of the Society and the sponsor has the right to determine where the museum will be located.
- 12. As soon as an extensive and interesting collection of natural artifacts has been assembled, the same will be delivered to the designate location in Germany or to the corresponding member in Bonn by one of the members elected by majority vote.
- 13. Both have the obligation to obtain the best price available for any possible valuable gems that might be included in the collection.
- 14. Each of the above-named regular members, likewise the corresponding member, obligates himself solidly through handshake and word of honor against third all third parties to respect and uphold the covenants agreed to.
Bonn, 11 August 1846
- Gürth, Director A. Altstädten, Sekretary
Capt. Bauer C. Rordorf J.W. Gürth,
Regular members
Referendar, S. Schultz
Corresponding member
12 August 46
all but 300 people had been transported from Indian Point
to the interior (Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA 28: 73)
October 1846
Shubbert goes to Frbg. with some new colonists (Huber, 45)
29 Sept 46
Artikel in Allgeneine Auswanderungszeitung about SPGET
Adress for newspapers {http://zs.thulb.uni-jena.de/receive/jportal_jpjournal_00000025
28 October 46
Generalversammlung Wiesbaden (Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA
28: 60)
Castell delivers a comprehensive report, which is augmented
by reports of impartial observers as well as the oral
presentation of Wurzbach, Berthold nad Altstaedter, who
have returned to Germany. The report essentially made the
following points:
A General-Etat for the year 1847 requested, couldn’t be
adequately put together because the requisite reports from
Texas were failing (Darstellung, 13 June 47, SBA 28: 98)
The chief problem for 1847 consisted of the costs
associated with the surveying.
29 October 1846
Public justification published by Verein in German
newspapers (SBA, 67: 91-96.)
November 1846
Cappes invites Fischer to a conference in New Braunfels
against the express wishes and warning of Meusebach
(Soerghel, 290)
8 November 1846
contract made with the surveyors Howard and Tiv and the
district surveyor, John James, wrote on the 15th of Dec.,
that he would soon send 10 surveyors and 10 more by April.”
(Soerghel, 297)
16 November 46
On 16 Nov 46 four members–M Guerth, Direktor, A.
Altstaedten, Sekretaer, J P. v. Bauer, C. Rordorf–set sail
for Texas. 17 Jan 47 set foot in Galveston. see:(Erster
Bericht des NFVs an Schultz in Bonn, SBA 56, 207-210) 1st
Feb 47 arrive at Dickenson Bayou. Rordorf arrives on the 5th
Erster Bericht published in Der Dt. Auswanderer. Nr 15. 1847
(SBA 68: 115+, 126)
LXVIII, 128
(Soerghel, 307) “…kam im Fruhjahr an…erforschte die Natur
der Faulheit.”
December 1846
Shubbert attempts scouting expedition into Fischer-Miller
grant north of the Llano river (Huber, 48)
31 December 1846
Rebellion in New Braunfels against Meusebach. (Huber, 48;
SBA 41: 110)
1847
4 jan 1847
Soergel camped at aqua dulce on way to n.b. (Soergel, 152)
8 January 1847
Amendment to the Nassau lease contract between Shubbert
and the GES (Huber, 62; Galveston Zeitung, 12-8-47.)
17 January 1847
Meusebach arrives in Frdg. (Huber, 50)
19 January 1847
Meusebach tenders his resignation as Commissiner-General
(Solon, 66)
20 January 1847
Negro James becomes the de facto supervisor because of the
gap left by the departure of Wilke. Ford. explains to James
that this is his big opportunity (Ford. to Sch., SBA 41:
124)
21 January 1847
In a letter from Fordtran probably to Sch., Fordtran paints
a gloomy picture of the state of affairs at Nassau.
Requests the keys so that he can dispense shoes and
clothing to the slaves (SBA 41: 126, 127)
22 January 1847
Meuasebachs expedition set out for the Llano on January 22, 1847 with 20 men
February 1847
Wilke has given up his position as overseer and Shubbert
announces that he wishes to give up his position, M. in the
meantime has appointed Fordtran as provisional overseer.
- writes of his intention to turn over the administration
of Nassau to Dr. Schubbert in the event that he does not
want to stay in Frdbg…turns it over to Cappes to come up
with a event. agreement with Sch. (Meus. an Cappes, SBA
41: 158, 159)
8 February 1847
Strubberg writes Cappes in New Braunfels requesting
supplies (Huber, 52)
18 February 1847
Cappes named provisionally (must be confirmed by a GV
later) to take the place of Meusebach–Director and Chief
administrative official of the Verein in Texas, which is
incorporated in Texas under the name of the (Texas and San
Saba) sic. Railroad. (Castell directive, Feb. 1847, SBA 49:
184)
Castell is distrought that Meusebach has not reported; he
cannot send more money until he knows where what he has
sent has gone. The old stockholders won’t give any more,
and the new ones only if there is a real basis for success.
Cannot accept M.’s explanation for not having written.
(Castell an Cappes, 18 Feb. 47, SBA 49: 186)
March 1847
Meusebach returns from his expedtion to make a treaty with
the Indians (Huber, 58)
4 March 1847
Cappes arrives in Frdbg (Huber, 53)
27 March 47
Pro Memoria sent out by the direction, contains a financial
Uebersicht reproduced and summarized in (Darstellung, 13
June 47, SBA 28: 83) Had incurred up to that point roughly
592,000 fl. of Passiva
April 1847
Cappes returns to Germany (Huber, 57) Strubberg writes him
making the accusation that Meusebach and Bene are in a
conspiracy to get the best land for themselves (Shubbert to
Cappes letter of 28 April 1847 reproduced in Huber, 57.)
Spring 1847
the grant is surveyed under the supervision and direction
of the District Surveyor of San Antonio –Fischer’s
retrospective (SBA 53: 156) charged the Verein $10,000 for
this service which was paid partially in coin, partially in
German Tratten? (167)
The main group of Darmstaeder arrive headed by Dr. Herff
and Spiess (Solon, 64)
9 May 1847
Regular treaty between Germans and Commanches concluded in
Frdbg. (Huber, 58)
9 June 1847
Otto von Roeder buys a league and a labor from John
Vanderwerth of Austin Co. for $ 1,000. (Fayette Deed Book
K, 482.) This sale is recorded 1-4-56. On 11-29-55 Roeder
sells this land to the heirs of John York, deceased for
$1,400. (Ibid., 483.)
10 June 1847
Anleihe von 100 000 Gulden beim Flersheim…15 Fuersten
unterzeichnet (SBA 28: 214)
15 & 16 June 1847
Generalversammlung in Biebrich (SBA 28: Index)
need to simplify their affairs, no more deposits, no more
guarantees, reduce the number of officials, authorized to
take another loan for 70,000 fl. (Darstellung, 13 June 47,
SBA 28: 72)
4 July 1847
Meusebach sends memorandum to the Directorate in N.B.
accusing Strubberg of misappropriation of funds, especially
of whiskey (Huber, 57)
12 July 1847
Meusebach fires Shubbert and resigns his position (Huber,
58) viz. von Coll to Meusebach, 17 July 47)
15 & 16 July, also 20th thru 23rd July 1847
Generalversammlung convenes (SBA 31) Cmite and Castell
charged with getting a loan to cover derbts and surveying
costs–eventually get a loan from Ph. Schmidt and L. H.
Flersheim in Franffurt for 900 000 fl. at 6%. For how the
money was to be spent viz. (SBA 63: 117 +)
20 July 1847
Cappes reports in 17 pps to the Society Committee in
Biebrich, unflattering to Meusebach, upset that he is an
atheist (Cappes letters in SBA, 41: 217-229)
20 July 1847
Meusebach to Castell–in this letter, according to (Huber,
63), Meusebach suggests that that Nassau will be turned
over to the Darmstadt-Group for 6 years.
21 July 1847
Meusebach turns over the administration of the Verein to
Spiess (SBA 44: 48) Biesele maintains that it was on the
20th (Biesele, 145)
July, August 1847
Spiess sends Alwin Soerghel to be provisional Director of
Nassau with strict orders to withhold the place from
Shubbert and his party (Huber, 63)
1 August 1847
Strubberg due by contract to take over Nassau plantation –
contract reproduced in (Huber,62).
Sept 47
The comite accepts the terms of Ph. N. Schmidt and L.H.
Flersheim (they were not able to secure a loan on the basis
of partial obligations) for 900,000 fl. to cover
outstanding debts and cover the costs of the surveys
1 September 1847
deadline specified by contract by which the lands of the
Fischer-Miller grant should be surveyed and settled (Solon,
62)
1 October 1847
Bene arrives in Texas from Germany and appointed as Trustee
and Director of New Braunfels, and substitute of Spiess in
case of his absence (Bene in N.B. to Dooley in L.G., care
of O.v.Roeder, 4 Nov. 47, SBA 44: 62, 63)
4 October 1847
Fischer and Miller write General Commissioner (claim
250,000 acres (SBA 40: 129, 132)
18 October 1847
Ernst Soerghel surrenders Nassau farm to two or three Americans
(Huber, 64); 18th or 19th (accord to Galveston Zt.. 10 Nov.
47); 20 October 47 According to an indictment filed Nov.
6th in Fayette county court, Absalom Bostick is charged
with assault and battery from the twentieth day of October
against one Feurman (sic) “Fuermann, Fehrmann accord to
Galveston Zt.” ?? (Complete Records C/186)
“…Im Herbst 1847 kam der Overseer d. Nassau herauf nach New
Braunfels u. berichtet mir,: Ich war auf der Plantage mit
einem Bekannten. Es kamem zwei leute herein, geben sich fuer
Sheriff und Gehuelfe aus. Sie schlagen ploetzlich meinen
Begleiter ohne alle Veranlassung nieder, setzten mir eine
gespannten Pistole auf der Brust u. jagen uns dann aus der
Besitzung heraus. Dieser Schubbert kam dann mit weiteren
Helfern u. der Eine jener Genannten, soll ein aus Mississippi
geflohenen Moerder sein–so der Bericht! Ich bitte daher
Herren aus N.B. mich hinunter zu begleiten, zum Schutz des
dortigen Eigenthums u. nehme selbst einen Advokaten mit
hinunter (sic Dooley)–mehre jener Herren kennt jedermann
hier…” (H. Spiess, Neu Braunfelser Zt., den 15. Juli 1853,
#36).
23 Oct 47
- Soerghel reimbursed for $5 for a trip of 23 Oct from N.
Brnfls to Nassau (Verein Collection, L. Bene
correspondence 1844-1850, Monatsabschluss Dez 47-Jan 48,
Erklaerung der Ausgaben from Victor Bracht)
24 Oct 47
Spiess reimbursed $4.90 for a trip from N. Brnfls to Nassau
this day (Verein Collection, L. Bene correspondence 1844-
1850, Monatsabschluss Dez 47-Jan 48, Erklaerung der
Ausgaben from Victor Bracht)
Spiess returned to Nassau with 7 companions (Galveston Zt.)
25 Oct 47
- Benner reimbursed$20 for costs, Spiess $21.50
(Verein Collection, L. Bene correspondence 1844-1850,
Monatsabschluss Dez 47-Jan 48, Erklaerung der Ausgaben from
Victor Bracht)
29 October 1847
shootout at Nassau (Galveston Zeitung, 10 Nov. 1847: Huber,
64)
Reports on the shoot-out:
1) Bene an den Grafen 25 Nov 47 (SBA 663, 107-116)
2) Bills of Dooley for his efforts during this time (SBA
56: 104)
3) Galveston Zeitung, 10-10-47.)
4) Bene to Meusebach, 8 Dec 47 (SBA 44: 26)
5) Meusebach to Bene, 22 Dec 47
6) Cappes to Castell, 16 May 48 (SBA 41: 286); 2 June 48
(SBA 41: 293)
7) Huber, 66-68. gives 28th as the date
8) Spiess “Antwort auf F. Krauskopf,” (N-B Zt., 15 Juli
53, Nr.36)
5 Nov 47
Grand Jury in La Grange returns a true bill for murder
against Hermann Spiess, Ernst Soergel, Adolph Beimer (Benner), Georg
Ulrich, Henry Flagge-zabel-Krausknoppe (Krauskopf) and Feuermann.
(Fayette County Case File Book E/ 383.)
9 Nov 47
“The defendent Soergel was brought into open court… the
indichtment being read to him…said he was not guilty of
the crime alleged against him. Whereupon motion of the
District Attorney and it appearing to the Court that the
Indichtment was defective as to the said Sorgel. It was
ordered by the Courtb that the Indichtment as to him be
quashed, and it is further ordered upon motion of the
District Attorney that he be committed to appear at the
next term of this court to answer the charge of murder upon
Frederick Somers.” He then posts bail for $2,000. (Fayette
County Case Book E/ 400.)
Dec 47
Spiess resumes temporarily the reigns of authority after
surrendering them for 14 days to a committee composed of
Bene, v. Coll and Dresel (Bene an das hohe Comite, 23 march
1848, SBA 44: 45) During this committee’s short term they
issue a series of orders for the reduction of costs
including the closing of the Vereinskueche in New
Braunfels, and the termination of the employment of the
employees there, reduction in the number of officials, and
the removal of the main business offices from N.B. to
Fredericksburg.
15 December
Sequestration order filed
22 Dec 47
Dresel schriftlich darauf hingewiesen, dass die
Generalversammlung beschlossen habe, dem Unternehmen in
Texas weitere Geldopfer nicht zu bringen… (SBA 63: 119)
No longer can draw promissory notes on New Orleans; have to
be drawn on Europe
1847
Rosa Kleberg moves with her family to DeWitt County where
they settle next to brother, Albert von Roeder and York the
owner of the W. Townsend quarter league. (Shuffler, 6)
1848
1 Jan 48
Strubberg due to take over Nassau lease (Huber, 62)
10 Jan 48
William Townsend dies. (Shuffler, 6)
24 Jan 48
York ousts Sherman who has not paid the purchase of the
homesite,subdivides and sells the W. Townsend quarter
league conveying the original homesite parcel to Samuel K.
Lewis. (Shuffler, 6.)
1848?
York dies nine months later at the battle of Escondido
Creek.
1848 ?
Lewis clears title from Sherman and buys an additional 640
acres of land. Also is said to have expanded the structure
in the following years and had Melchior do paintings and
started the Inn.(Shuffler, 6-8)
24 Feb 48
Bene gives report to Castell and serves notice of his
intention to resign. Cannot (like Coll and Kriewitz) stand
the communistic connection with the Darmst. and having
people (like Spiess) put in charge, who have had nothing to
do with the Society. Mentions that the administration has
been shut down in Fred., the property sold by v. Coll who
has resigned. Mentions that the banking houses of
Flersheim, Conford, and Hober have gone under in Germany
which has caused a lot of consternation. (Bene an Castell,
SBA 44: 37)
Feb./March 1848
Sometime in this period Castell steps down and a committee
takes over. (Bene an ein hohes Comite, 23 March 48, SBA 44:
45) Spiess is forced to flee once again and turn over the
administration once again, but this time only to
Dresel,(though Bene is helping him and has postponed his
planned return to Texas)since Bene has given his
contractually required six month notice . Both he and
Dresel feel it is impossible for Spiess to continue as
General Commissioner
20 March 48
Generalversammlung in which several important events occur
1) Graf Castell and the Direktion step down
2) a committee is appointed to administer the affairs of the
Verein, which consists of Rechnungsrath Rauscher of
Wiebsaden and Dr. Reiganum of Frankfurt a/M
3) preliminary discussion about the dissolution of the
Verein
4) receive Kaufangebot fom Martin
5) decide to send a commission to Texas to evaluate the
conditions there, consists of Cappes and Becker
6) what course of action to take against those Aktionairs
who have not paid up- includes Meusebach
(SBA 32: 32)
20 March 48
Act mentioned below passed (Solon, 76) For Dooley’s
explanation of its importance see SBA 64: 93
23 March 48
Aufhebung der Vereinskueche in N.B. veroffentlicht, in dt.
- englisch, Bene (SBA 44: 86)
1 April 48
An act became effective of great importance to
immigrants..governor appointed commisioner to issue
certificates for land issued in the Fiser-Miller grant upon
hearing proof of entitlement (Biesele, 134) Seven other
acts were passed by the Legislature of the Staate of Texas
bearing on the Fisher and Miller Colony. See Gammel, III,
146-149. The first of these was passed on Jan. 21, 1850,
and granted 640 acres and 320 acres to heads of families
and single men respectively. The act was intended to secure
the German Emigration C. and their colonists the land to
which they were entitled (Biesele, 135)
17 April 48
Frederick Shubbert against Baron de Meusebach et al. The
plaintiff moves for dismissal and the Court (Fayette
County) so orders. (Fayette County Case Book E, 252.)
17 April 48
Castell signs a Vollmacht for Martin (SBA 40: 137)
23 April 48
Bene writes the Comite and reports that Spiess has been
forced to flee once again, and that since he took over the
reigns again in Dec of 1847 it has created a lot of
problems and embarrassment. Bene has had to rely on Dresel
to keep things going and they both feel it is impossible
for Spiess to continue as director. (SBA 44: 46)
The Nassau affair has had dire repercussions for the entire
effort; “…so ist der Ausgang dieser Angelegenheit dennoch
fuer die Vereinsangelegenheiten in jeder Beziehung,
besonders aber in pekuniarer Hinsicht, hoechst nachteilig
gewesen…”
A complaint against Spiess and declares intention to resign
25 April 48
General Assembly resolution assigns all property in Texas
to Count Castell, who in turn, on 6 May 48, sells his
rights to Ludwig Martin, who, on 6 Aug 48, forms the German
Colonization Society of Texas. On 5 Jan 52 Martin sells his
shares in the G.C.S. of T. to M. Settegast and assigns.
Settegast et al then sue the Duke of Nassau et al and their
Co., the S.P.G.E. in T., alias the G.E.C., the Guadalupe,
Lavacca and San Saba R.R. in the spring term of Travis
county district court, 1853. (6 April 1853 (Spring Term
dist court Travis? Texas Monument. reprint from S.W.
American of report of a suit of F. Roehr, Ubaghs, and
Settegast vs. The German Emigration Co., Isahia A.
Paschal, Otto von Roeder, Wilhelm v. Rosenburg, John James
and Stephen Crosby, Commissioners of the General Land
Office. Paschal represents himself and claims to have
bought the assets of the Society at a Sheriff’s sale. The
complete and original text of this suit is in the
colonization files(#4) of the State Land Office.)
The Verein sells to Martin on the advice of Castell and
then gives him the authority to oversee the sale. He
becomes a seventh partner in the company of Roehr et al in
order to, as he says, to keep an eye on them and look out
for the interests of the SPGET. (SBA 32: 43-46)
26 April 48
“Von denen am 26ten April in Folge vorgedachter Einladung
erschienenen oder gehoerig vertreteenen 35 Stimmen waren 25
unbedingt fuern den Abschluss eines Kauvertrages mit Dr.
Martin, wie solcher als Project von dem Herrn grafen von
Castell vorgelegt worden war. Bediingungsweise trat des
Herrn Fuersten von Colorado Mansfeld Vertreter mit 7 Actien
bei.”
May 48
Shubbert leaves Texas (Huber, 68)
1 May 48
Governor Geo. T. Wood appointed W.F. Evans as commissioner
for issuance of certificates to the colonists (Solon, 77)
6 May 48
Agreement of (red)emption. Projected sale of holdings of
the German Emigration Society to Dr. Ludwig Martin.
(Fayette Deed Book E/ 192.; SBA 32: 33, 145) Castell, who
has been given the authority to supervise and approve this
sale, gives Martin a Power of Attorney (SBA 32: 45)
8 May 48
Very interesting, and confidential, letter of Castell to
Cappes. Mentions “Unannehmlichekeiten” caused by Cappes
mission, caused by the Comite who put form (i.e. class and
title) over success. The Verein is at the point of anarchy
caused by the one fact that the expenses were greater than
anticipated. The only solution was to remove the entire
project from the hands of the Verein (hence the sale to
Martin et al). Perplexed how there could still be debts in
Texas after all the money that has been sent over. Cappes
is to get to the bottom of this. He is to try and save the
grant lands as well as the Plantation. He has placed all
his hopes on Cappes to sort things out in Texas even though
the Comite has tied his hands. “Sie waren der einzige Mann
der nach meiner Ueberzeugung im Stande war, durch kluge
Massregeln das strandende Schiff noch zu retten…” (SBA
42: 255)
21 May 48
Nach mehreren seit Maerz 1848 vorausgegangenen
Auflaeufen veranlasste 21 Mai d.J. ein blutiger
Strassenkampf zwischen den Buergern u. dem preussischen
Militaer die Erklaerung des Verlagerungszustands, der
jedoch schon 24. Mai wieder aufgehoben wurde.” (Meyer’s
Konversations-Lexikon, 11: 122)
28 May 48
Levied on the following Negroes to whit Henry aged 25 years
and his wife Eizabeth and her two children, Dick aged about
fifty years and his wife Rachel 26 years of age and her Two
children and Amanda aged 16 years. (E. J. Kurt & Co. vs.
The German Emigration Co. Complete Records C/280.)
summer 48
agents of the Society stop paying debts and claims, which
are estimated to run to $ 100,000 –Fischer retrospective(
(SBA 53: 157)
The revolution in Germany hinders the society at home
8 July 48
The German Emigration Co. conveys all of Nassau plantation
to Otto von Roeder. ( Fayette Deed Book E/ 113.) Biesele
gets these dates wrong: the codicil about reversion is
filed on 28 July 48. This document lists all the slaves,
their names and approx. ages.
19 July 48
Post Office moved from House with the Round Top (Zuehlke’s
place) to Schulz’s store. (J.G. Banik speech, reproducd in
the Congressional Record, Vol. 14, No. 101, June 13, 1968.)
28 July 48
Dresel conveys Nassau to Otto v. Roeder along with 25
slaves for $14,000 ( Biesele, 68.) Actually, this document
is the codicil for reversion. (Fayette Deed Book E/ 321.)
What has happened is this: The GEC owes O v Roeder $14,000. They give him a deed to Nassau in consideration of this sum, but he turns around and writes them a deed of reversion for the consideration of $6,000 to be paid in one year, ie July 28th, 1849. (E/321)
6 Aug 48
Martin organizes the German Colonization Society of Texas
(F. Roehr, Ubaghs, and Settegast vs. The German Emigration
Co., Isahia A. Paschal, Otto von Roeder, Wilhelm v.
Rosenburg, John James and Stephen Crosby, Commissioners of
the General Land Office, colonization files(#4), State Land
Office)
14 Sept 1848
Dresel dies at the Morris Farm near Gonzales on the way to
New Braun. (SBA 56: 91; 60: 60-63) see Becker’s Bericht
(SBA 56: 114)
29 Sept 1848
Spiess tried in district court for murder and aquitted
(Dist Court Minutes, Fayette Cunty, E: 139)
15 Oct 48
date by which Martin had to give notice to the Verein of
his intention to purchase; Verein didn’t receive it so the
Vertrag of 6 May 48 was no longer in effect (SBA 32: 145)
1849
14 March 49
Ernst Soerghel tried and found not guilty for the murder of
Capt. Sommers (Dist Court Minutes, Fayette County, E: 203,
4)
6 April 49
Comite des Vereins (Rauscher) signs a contract with a
consortium of F. Roehr, J.W. Ubaghs, and M.W. Settegast to
dispose for profit of the Vereins assets in Texas since
thee contract with Martin has fallen through (SBA 32: 149)
20 April 49
Generalversammlung Comite set up to administer affairs
consisting of F. Gf. zu Leiningen, v. Bibra, Stephen,
Rauscher, Kroeber for a three year term– at the end of
these three years, 11 July 52, they deliver a report (SBA
38: 43-50)
3 May 49
Bene an den Verein teilt mit, dass Fischer u. Miller
gerichtlich 250,000 acre zugesprochen seien (SBA 40: 171)
6 May 49
date of contract between the Verein and Roehr, Settegast
and Ubaghs (SBA 58: 182-185)
June 49
Becker returns to Germany and gives a pretty good report
about the state of things. The Comite writes Bene and
givesw him the following instructions:
1) Becker has given a favorable report–Martin only managed
to sell one wagon; he is now back in Paris and has fallen
out with his Society–the Verein hopes that it is finally
done with him
2) do not antagonize Meusebach; cultivate a relationship
with Fischer–they hear that he is an influential man
3) try to buy back secretely promissory notes of the Verein
at a discount–money can be made available to do this
4) money will be forthcoming to redeem Nassau plant., but
attempt to get an extension until 15 July 1850.
5) Waarenvorraethe meistbietend veraeussern
6) Vereinsgebaeude in I.P., N.B., and Fred. rentbar machen-
-only sell if absolutely necessary
7) Herr Kaufmann Roehr has a letter from Fischer in which
he offers for a sum of $6,000 to $8,000 to obtain at the
next legislature free and unrestricted acess to over the
entire grant. He should give his attention tot his matter.
In the meantime the contract with Hr, Roehr has been
ratified, and you, i.e. Bene, are now to act according to
its terms. The 15,000 Fl. which has been turned over to you
for the redemption of Nassau might have to be used for
other purposes in light of this contract. (Der Verein an
Bene, 24 May 49, SBA 44: 169)
18 June 45
Date of contract between the Verein and Friderich Roehr
(SBA 58: 186-190)
2 July 49
- Steinert visits Nassau farm. “We found Mr. von Roeder to
be an educated, discreet and friendly man. After we has
waited here for a volent thunderstorm to blow over we
continued our journey in the company of Mr. von Roeder’s
brother-in-law. When we had gone several miles we came
upon Mr. Ernst’s farm, which is famous in all this part of
the country. We now had before us the picture of a farm
different from all other farms we had seen, with the
exception of the farm operated by Mr. von Roeder.
(Jordan, Gilbert J. “Notes and Documents: W. Steinert’s
view of Texas in 1849.)
25 July 1849
- Roeder submitted a bill for $10,857.23 for corn
deliveries. This figure was subsequently reduced by $2366,
which left the Verein owing Roeder $8491. The plantation
was valued at $14,000 by Dresel in the corn dealings and
mortgaged with that as the value. (Bene an das Komite, SBA
45: 39).
1 September 1849
Dr. Ferdinand von Herff returns from Germany to Texas with
several well-to-do emigrants (SBA 39: 119, 138, 142, 144;
SBA 63: 154
11 October 1849
Committee sends Bene instructions about Nassau Pl. as well
as other things (SBA 44: 228)
1850
In 1850
the German Emigration Co. was incorporated and a commissioner
was named in order to issue to the Society Premium titles and
to the emigrants colonial certificates. The emigrants were
relieved of the condition that they had to settle in the
Grant; a court judgement was issued to the benefit of the
creditors which gave them a claim on the half share of the
emigrants lands and on the premium lands; the creditors were
required to register their claims in San Antonio; for the
German Emigration Co. the privilige was reserved to buy the
alternate sections for 50 cents an acre.
Since 1850 the affairs of the Society have suffered
very much due to a combination of factors. Many lawsuits were
filed against the Society in 1847, ’48, and ’49, and
judgements entered. The Society’s property, which according
to an inventory of 1847 by present estimation would have had
a value of approximately $250,000, was sold, mortgaged, lost,
wasted and gradually disappeared until almost nothing is
left. Its claim on money owed it in Texas, estimated to be
$75,000, is blocked by the statute of limitations. Its right
to lands in the Grant, namely to the half-shares to come from
the emigrants were lost from view and prejudiced in every
concievable way. Their debts have not diminished, rather they
have increased through such things as the cost of litigation
until it would be almost impossible to say exactve ihat the
Soci of owes. The worst thing about the whole affair was that
neithe up,e Society, nleests creditors, nor the emigrants
derived any benefit from this situation, since the first
quickly lost, one after the other, all their property as well
as their right to property in the Grant, and the creditors
recieved no payment for their demands. Indeed, the prospects
for it grew slimmer by the day. Only Fischer nad Miller were
partially satisfied on account of a judgement in 1848 they
had against the Society for a substantial amount. And for
the majority of emigrants in respect to the Grant and the
prospect of finally obtaining valid titles, they were led
astray by speculators and ended up selling their certificates
at artificially low prices. The largest number of these
certificates were bought up in the districts of San Antonio,
Comal, and Gillespie by speculators, who, after at first
having shown little sympathie for the plight of the emigrants
by acquiring their certificates at a price far from their
true worth, and not satisfied with this, casting an eye over
the entire land, sought to prejudice the rights of the
Society and the creditors of the same to the half-shares
due them from the emigrants through an act of the legislature
and other means.(Fischer) (Fischer an die Aktionaire, SBA 53: 159)
1 Jan.1850
money due to Otto v. Roeder or he takes over the plantation
, in a communication by the Comite to L. Bene concerning
this, they state, “…Ueber die Farm Nassau sind Ihnen
unsere Entschliessungen zugegangen, Fonds zur Einloesung am
- Jan. d. J. konnten wir Ihnen unmoeglich bis zu benannten
Termin disponibel stellen, und hoffen deshalb, dass Sie die
Sache fuer den Verein convenabelste Weise geordnet haben
werden.” (Comite an Bene, 7 Feb. 1850, SBA 44: 335)
For an explanation of the deal that led to Roeder taking
over the plantation see (Bene an das Comite, SBA 45: 38)
1850
German Emigration Co. Incorporated (SBA 53: 159)
“Seit 1850 litten die Angelegenheiten der Gesellschaft sehr
durch vielfach kombinierte Ursachen. Es waren in 1847, 48
and 49 viele Processe gegen dieselben eingeleitet worden
fuer Schulden und erhaltene richterliche Urteilssprueche,
ihr Privateigentum, das nach dem Inventar von 1847 nach
gegenwaertiger Schaetzung etwa $250,000 Dollars werth sein
moechte, war verkauft, verpfaendet, verloren, verschwendet
und allmahlich verschwunden, bis fast nichts mehr da
ist…” (Fischer an die Aktionaire, SBA 53: 159)
21 Jan 50
1st Law passed giving colonists land in Fisher- Miller
(Biesele, 134-5; Gammel 3: 492-7) “The law insured the
colonists their lands as if all the terms of the contract
had been fullfilled’ Dooley SBA 64: 93
pertinent Gammel references:
3: 403-4, 701-2, 146-9, 492-7, 1469, 1471, 1479-80; 4:
1443; 5: 478-9; 8: 565-6.
Fischer mentions it in report to Generalversammlung of
Sept. 1855 (SBA 53: 107)
The Bill gave the creditors of the Verein a kind of
Pfandrecht (lien) auf die Landhaelften, which were to be
given to the Verein by the Emigrants. In 1854 the
legislature passed a bill which gave the Emigrants Patents
to the whole section, but Fischer was able to get a court
injunction against this, and so only 40 Patents were issued
4 Feb 50
Arthur Meerscheidt buys 120 acres from Otto von Roeder out
of the Nassau farm for $2.00 acre, pay when convenient at
6% interest ( Meerscheidt letter, 86.)
11 Feb 50
John Seiper sells sells 44 acres of land to John Rosenberg
for $180. (Fayette Deed Book G/ 104.)
16 Feb 50
Otto von Roeder sells 800 acres of Nassau to Charles von
Rosenberg for $1,800. (Fayette Deed Book G/ 111.)
Crockett Perry and wife and J. F. Ernst and wife Moriah
convey to William Rosenberg 220 acres of the Logan League
on the NW corner of the Jack League for $500. Witnessed by
Otto von Roeder. (Fayette Deed Book G/ 109.)
22 Feb 50
Bene surrenders Deed of Conversion to Otto von Roeder.
(Biesele, 68.)
Roeder mortgages 1,000 acres of Nassau and 526 acres of Mill
land for $8475.26 paid to him by L. Bene, Trustee of the
German Emigration Society. He has 18 months to pay back
the money (in IOUs against the GEC) and have the mortgage nullified (Fayette
County, Deed Book G/ 133,134.), which he does on May 5th, 1852. (I/ 29-30).
7 March 1850
“To finally close out the matter with the plantation Nassau I will travel with M. A. Dooley and the society’s engineer, Wilke, as a committee, to the place and location, and act in accordance with the directive Nr.? of 11 October 49 (SBA 44, 228). Since all efforts to obtain a further extension from v. Roeder have failed. Herr von Roeders claims are paid with the inventory and the slaves. From the attached accounting of the same, the committee can see that from v. Roeder’s original bill of 25 July 1849, sent over by me to the committee in August, in the amount of $10, 857. 23, reduced in the present accounting by $2,366. In this unfortunate affair of grain deliveries, the farm was appraised at $14,000 and set as such in a legal mortgage. After subtracting the attached claims of $8,491.08 from Dresel’s mortgage amount, there remains $5,508.92 to be paid by v. Roeder, who obligated himself to pay this off in 18 months from the date of this agreement, and offered as security a lien on neighboring farm and gin (526 acres) as well as 1,000 acres and farm buildings from the Nassau Farm. For the complete satisfaction of his claims against the society Herr v. Roeder obligates himself to a claim of 65 cents on the dollar whereby we arrive at the above figure of $8,475.26. I include a legal opinion by the society’s lawyer, M. A. Dooley from which is to be seen that under the circumstances governing this case, nothing else could be done. Even if we had the means at hand to redeem the plantation, we would be faced with another judicial attachment, and a third and a fourth, etc. each with increased costs for the society, and these costly attachments would continue until the last dollar had been expended. It is therefore by a wide margin the best policy of the society to put an end to this expensive possession, which has never yielded a profit, and redeem it for a sum of $20, 716.34. Included in this sum is the release of lien for Verein’s property in New Braunfels for the amount of $3,750, which mortgage, likewise, was given to von Roeder by Dresel for corn deliveries. The committee will see from all this that what has been done was done out of the greatest urgency, and the advantage which the society has gained through the sale of the farm exceeds by a wide margin any valuation recently assigned to the farm. The considered judgment of the Verein’s attorney, Mr. Dooley, will further attest to the truth of the above. With the withdrawal of the mortgage by von Roeder on the Verein’s property in New Braunfels there only remains a claim of $5,000 on the property there by Mrs, Elliot of San Antonio on the said property (also in the form of a mortgage). I haven’t publicized Roeder’s release yet; rather I have kept it secret to prevent any action by the said claimant on this very valuable property, since Roeder’s claim predates hers…. ( Bene an das Komite, 7 Maerz 1850, SBAt, XLV, 39.
.
29 March 50
Rosenberg has bought Nassau to his complete satisfaction,
(letter from Frau v. Rosenberg from Nassau Farm of 3-29-50)
She gives a complete history of Nassau in this letter
15-19 April 50
Generalversammlung in Wiesbaden viz. (SBA 29: Index)
19 April 50
Das Komite in Wiesbaden prepares documents for Landverkauf
(SBA 53)
20 April 50
Bene recieves Schreiben Nr. 11 from the Committee. Contains
a proposal for the satisfaction of the creditors in Texas
pay them off 25% at a time every 6 months until they are
completely paid off. Dooley says this will work. (Dooley an
Rauscher, 25 July 50, SBA 29: 207+)
15 May 50
Meerscheidt refers to a drawing he has included in his
letter of the “Aussicht” from his “Pfarm”. Gives a verbal
interpretation: To the south is the big house of the v.
Rosenbergs; in the valley a little towards us is the farm
of v. Roeder; to the north there is only one other farm…
(Meerscheidt, 97.)
3 June 50
Bene recieves Schreiben Nr. 12 from the Committee. Pay off
with printed Wechsel with 6% on the unpaid balance. Dooley
says completely unacceptable. (Dooley an Rauscher, 25 July
50, SBA 29: 207+)
30 July 50
Meerscheidt engaged to Lina von Rosenberg (Ancestral Voices, 129)
26 August 50
Johannes Carl von Rosenberg (1826-1906) marries Julie
Wilhelmine Christine Gross. After they married, they lived
on a farm that was part of Nassau Plantation, which he had
cultivated while he boarded with his sister, Haenchen
Helmuth, nearby. In Roundtop he founded a mercantile
business and also an inn which was widely known to
travelers of the day. (Rosenberg Family History, 66.)
Wrote a letter which is reproduced in the Froelich book, p.
- ( ibid. 67.)
9 Nov 50
Arthur Meerscheidt marries Amanda Karoline von Rosenberg
They live in an addition to the manor house described by
Meerscheidt (M., 11-14-50, 118)(Ancestral Voices, 132)
12, 13 Nov 50
Generalversammlung zu Biebrich, viz. Bericht (SBA 29: 176-
195)
1851
1851
The Verein misses in this year- according to Fischer- a
golden opportunity not only to recover all its previous
outlays, but to make a considerable profit as well. (SBA
53: 106 & 107)
12 May 51
Generalversammlung
(Einladung Photostat SBA 64: 138; Brgruendung der Einberufung
SBA 64: 144
12-14 May 1851
SBAt XXXVII: 1; (Protokoll)
SBAt XXXVII: 145 (Protokoll)
SBAt LXI: 100, 129, 195
SBAt LXII: 133, 241, 242
SBAt LXIV, 139 (Programm)
SBAt LXV: 1 (Liste der Teilnehmer); 15
SBAt LXVI, 2,16; (Schuldendeckung betrfd.)
Herrmann Fuerst zu Wied writes a Denkschrift in his
capacity as President of the SPGET in which he expresses
great optimism. (SBA 37: 52-56) Interest in emigration to
Texas is growing anew, and a good place for those who are
dissatisfied with the situation in Europe.
Aug 51
Generalversammlung u. Comitee-sitzungen des Verein
viz. Meusebach (SBA Namenregister, 687) for numerous
references
8 Sept 51
Meusebach takes part in the Generalversammlung in Wiesbaden
(SBA, 65: 1)
Oct 51
Meerscheidt hires two workers to put up his own house, $18
for labor, $9 for materials (letters, 139)
7 Oct 51
Isahia Paschal acquires field notes in a sheriff’s sale in
San Antonio (F. Roehr, Ubaghs, and Settegast vs. The German
Emigration Co. et al)
9 Oct 51
Generalversammlung– Meusebach is there and gives a lecture
over the circumstances in Texas (SBA 37: 159)
“Alle Verlegenheiten u. die grosse Schuldmassen des Vereins
in Texas seyen dadurch erwachsen, dass vom November 1845
bis Ende Febuar 1846 ueber 4600 Menschen aus Deutschland
nach Texas geschickt worden, welche der Verein dort zu
verpflegen verbunden gewesen sei. Weder zur Bestreitung
der Verpflegungskosten noch zur Rueckzahlungder von den
Emigranten in Dtld. deponierten Geldern, welche die Summe
von 200,000 fl. ueberstiegen habe, seien die noetigen fonds
disponible gestellt worden, welches in einem wenig
bevoelkerten Lande doppelte Verlegenheiten u. Hoeheren
Aufwand zur Folge gehabt. ” (Meusebach report to the
Generalversammlung, Sept 51, SBA 37: 154)
Bene, who is also present, and is soon to return to Texas,
is asked to be provisionally general-agent to carry out the
determinations of the assembly. He is charged with coming
to an agreement with Fischer who has made a claim for
250,000 acres. (SBA 37: 171) In the negotiations he shall
avail hiomself of the advice of Meusebach, and act
accordingly
6 Dec 51
Letter to German newspaper about condition of Fredericksburg by Theodor Specht, Postmeister (See Research/Fredericksburg research/ Fredericksburg topics/ Frdbg Brief 1851.pdf)(Allgemeine Auswanderungszeitung/Rudolstadt den 10 Feb., 1852, Nr. 17)[ http://zs.thulb.uni-jena.de/receive/jportal_jpvolume_00032388%5D
1852
5 Jan 52
Martin sells his shares in the German Colonization Society
of Texas to Roehr, Ubaghs and Settegast. (F. Roehr, Ubaghs,
and Settegast vs. The German Emigration Co.et al)
25 May 52
Bene acknowledges that Otto v. Roeder has paid off the debt
of $8,475.26 and that, therefore, the mortgage on his
property of 2-25-50 is null and void. (Fayette Deed Book
I/ 29, 30)
26 May 52
Legal instrument filed by Bene as a correction to previous
Deed of Mortgage of 2-2-50 in which the German Emigration
Co. got a Deed of Mortgage for 1,000 acres of Nassau for
the consideration of $8,475.26, which they paid to Otto v.
Roeder, and which he had 18 months to pay off. (Fayette
County Deed Book J/ 44.)
18 Juy 52
Paschall brothers in San Antonio in name of the creditors
make a compromise offer to the Verein (SBA 65: 105-107)
For Bene’s report of negotiations with the same see: (SBA
65: 94-104)
August 52
Interesting letter by d’Orvanne to Rauscher–finds it
incredible that the Generalversammlung has decided not to
pay its debts and to ignore the demands of its creditors.
22 Oct 52
Dooley informs Bene that the Sheriff of Comal county has
executions in his hand against the GEC’s properties
(SBA 46: 298)
24 Nov 52
Judgment in Bexar County District Court against German
Emigration Co. (Biesele, 68.) for the sum of $2,445.16
with interest from the 24 of November, 1852 (Fayette Deed
Book I/ 426) P. Bremond and W.A. van Alstyne bring suit and
Chandler and McFarland are the plaintiff’ lawyers.
1853
1853
It can be inferred from the tax rolls that Otto v. Roeder
moved out of Nassau in this year, as he does not appear on
the tax rolls in Jack League for this year.
Jan 53
The Sheriff of Comal County advertises the sale of Verein
properties to satisfy debt judgements (SBA 46: 299)
3 March 53
Execution order issued from the Clerk’s office of the
District Court of Bexar County directed to the Sheriff of
Fayette County, J. Moore, (Fayette Deed Book I/ 426,427)
Bremond and W.A. van Alstyne for $2,445.16 debt.
9 March 53
Sam Maverick went with John McDonald survrying to Ft. Mason and the Llano, and to Ft. Chadbourne and the Red Fork of the Colorado. (Mary Maverick, 113) April 25th returned in good health.(see: Turn your Eyes Toward Texas, Paula Mitchell Marks, 173)
12 March 53
Execution order arrives at the Sheriff’s office. ibid.
Sheriff Moore levies on the land.
“…that the said plaintiff at the time and before said sale represented to this defendant that there was then pending in the District Court of the United States held at the city of Austin a certain suit of James A. Chandler against the said plaintiff wherein the title of said plaintiff to said tract with other tracts of land was in controversy – that this affiant at first refused to conclude said purchas in consequence of said alleged difficulty in reference to his title to the same, but on being assured by the said plaintiff and his friends that the said suit of the said James A. Chandler was frivolous in its character and only instituted as a bit of malice to vex and harass the said plaintiff, and further that the same should and would be settled at the then next term of the District Court of the United States which was long prior to the falling due of the note which constitutes the cause of action in this suit…”(Affadavit, 3 Dec 1857 in suit Otto v. Roeder vs John R. Robson, Fall Term 1857, Case# 1049, Texas State Archives holding # M-2938)
21 March 53
“Klage von Rohr, Ubaghs, and Setteggast… und GEC kam am
- d. M. bei der District Court in Austin zur endgueltigen
Entscheidung. Dooley… Rechsanwalt zugunsten…guenstige
Entscheidung zuteil…” (Neu Braunfelser Zt., 1 April 53,
Nr. 21)
21 April 53
Otto von Roeder sells John R. Roson 1400 acres unimproved land for 3,600 dollars, payable in three notes. John R. Robson executes a note to OvR for $1,050 and due
1 Jan 56, last pmt for 1,400 acres of land (Texas Reports, V.
XX, p. 754)
29 April 53
“Noch am ersten Tag kam ein Auftrag zur Entscheidung, de
eine Klage betrifft, welche fuer Neu Braunf. von
bedeutender Wichtigkeit ist…E. Jones u. Sanroh seien
Sache gegen Meryweather, denBesitztitel seines vom Veein
gekauften Landes betrrf…zum naecsten Termin vertagt, weil
der Judge fruherer Anwalt der Parteien gewesen war. diese
waren die Klagten:…” (N-B Zt., 29 April 53, Nr. 25)
3 May 53
Roeder loses Nassau in Sheriff’s sale. (Biesele, 68.)
James Chandler of the County of Bristol of the Commonwealth
of Massachuettes is the highest bidder with a bid of
$177.76 or 5 cents an acre. (Fayette Deed Book I/ 427)
20 May 53
More about case of Jones reported in the Neu Braunfelser
Zt, ‘location’ of Seabough, Dooley, and Stebbins valid…a
good sign..awaiting decision by Supreme Court.(N-B Zt.20
Mai 53, Nr. 28)
21 May 53
Otto v. Roeder sells 1400 acres to John R. Robson for
$3,600. O. v. Roeder supplies Robson with a penal bond for
double the purchase price in the event he cannot supply a
good title. (Texas Reports, 20: 755)
3 June 53
people like Dooley began advertising in the N-B Zt. that
they are ready to turn over surveys to those holding claims
for the price of the survey. Dooley offers to buy the
surveys for half the land and assume all costs.(N-B Zt., 10
Juni 53, Nr. 31)
8 Juli 53
article in N-B Zt. railing against the candidacy of former
official of Verein (unnamed) and alludes to Nassau affair.
15 Juli 53
Hermann Spiess writes a long article defending his conduct
in the Nassau shootout in answer to one F. Krauskopf wh had
attacked him (and his candidacy) in the previous edition.
(N-B Zt., den 15. Juli 53, Nr. 36)
53
“Ich kam in Folge desselben in 1853 nach Wiesbaden, wo ich
die Gesellschaft bereit und willig fand, ihr gesamtes
Eigenthum u. ihre Rechte auf Eigenthum in die Haende ihrer
Texasglauebiger zu uebergeben, mit Vorbehaltung des
Privilegiums, die Aktiva nach einer gewissen Zeit durch
Abbezahlung ihres Schuldenbetrages wieder an sich zu
bringen.” (Fischer an die Aktionaire, SBA 53: 161)
1 Sept 53
Fischer returns from Germany where he has appeared before
the Verein tn order “…die Gesellschaft von den wahren
Zustande ihrer Angelegenheiten in Texas benachrichtigen u.
den Versuch machen sollte, irgend ein Abkommen mit
derselben zu treffen.” (Fischer an die Aktionaire, SBA 53:
161)
13 Sept 53
Society assigns all its properties and its claims to its creditors (Tiling, 112)
15 Sept 53
Texas and German Emigration Co. founded in Austin, which is
in reality an association of creditors of the German
Emigration Co. headed by Henry Fischer, but the German
Emigration Co. is also a member. By laws and list of
members: (SBA 53: 40+; Solon, 96)
1 Oct 53
Fischer returns to Germany (SBA 53: 161) to appear in
December at the Generalversammlung–presents the contract
which is agreed to by the Verein
1853
Joseph George Wagner, Sr. emigrates to Texas. Three years
later buys a part of the old Nassau plantation.
(Shuffler, 28)
1853
Rudolph Melchior in his Tagebuch for 1853 owned by a
descendant named Mrs. Elfrieda (A.E.) Krause, 4106 Duval,
Austin tells of his trip to Texas and in a pocket are
several scraps of paper on which are sketched designs
similar to the details of the Winedale Inn. (Shuffler, 7)
30 December 53 Wiesbaden
Fischer given General-Vollmacht (Fischer Bericht, 15 Sept
55, SBA LIII, 119-130)
1854
1 Jan 54
Creditors meet with agent for the German Emigration Co.
(SBA 53: 40)
7 Jan 54
Fischer given third, and modified, General-Vollmacht
(Fischer Bericht, 15 Sept 55, SBA LIII, 119-130)
3 Feb 54
Legislature passed a law which was intended as a supplement
to thwe law of Jan 21, 1850–extended deadline for issuing
patents in Fischer-Miller to March 1, 1855 (Solon, 84)
John O. Meusebach appointed as commissioner on Feb.15 and
ended Feb 12, 1855. The four commissioners issued a total
of 1520 certificates for 320 acres and 1968 certificates
for 640 acres or a total of 3488 certificates for 1,745,290
acres in the Fischer-Miller Grant. (Solon, 85)
end Feb 54
Fischer returns from Germany with signed contract (SBA 53:
162) Fischer hears with regret about the passing of the
above mentioned law because it made no provisions for the
Co. to recieve half the assigned land.
Fischer immediately takes steps to get an injunction which
he does (SBA 53: 163) see also (Solon, 104)
18 May 54
OvR enters into contract with J.A. and W.F. Wade for the
purchase of a tract of land containing 1600 acres and
embracing their homestead, for $15,000.Terms: at signing
5 negroes valued at $5,100; a promissary note for $4,900
due 25 Dec. 54; note due for $4,000 25 Dec 55
20 Sept 54
farming doesn’t cut it, even with making tiles on the side
(Meerscheidt letters, 199)
“Geldklemme ist ueberall…” 202
1 Dec 54
Convention of the Texas & German Emigration Co. held in
Austin. Fischer named agent, which authorized him to
collect the stock of the Co. and meet with those parties
who were opposed to the Co. in order to reach acceptable
compromises. (SBA 53: 152, Fischer an die Aktionaire 31
May 1855; Fischer an das Comite, 27 Jan 55, SBA 53: 37)
1855
2 Feb 55
Carl and Amanda von Rosenberg deed 100 acres of land to
Eugen von Rosenberg, 103 acres to Arthur Meerscheidt and
daughter Caroline, and sell Franz Gotte 100 acres of land.
Meerscheidt and wife turn around and sell to Theodor
Michaelis 8 1/4 acres of land for $49.50. (Fayette Deed
Book, K/158-161)
25 Feb 55
Fischer intends to return to Austin and then spend three
weeks in the Grantgebiet in order to personally watch over
the location of the premium certificates which up to this
point amount to 50,000 acres. (Fischer an das Comite, 27
Jan 55, SBA 53: 38)
28th Feb 1855
3 Feb 1854
An act of the legislature “An act supplemental to an act to secure to the German Emigration Co. and their colonists to the lands to which they are entitled and to adjust the liabilities of said co.”
28 Feb 1855
Be it known by these presents that I, John O. Meusebach, duly appointed and qualifies under the provisions of an act of the legislature entitled “An act supplemental to an act to secure to the German Emigration Co. and their colonists to the lands to which they are entitled and to adjust the liabilities of said co,” by virtue of the authority in me vested do hereby certify that before the first of Sept, 1847, Johann Bauer was introduced into Texas by virtue of the colonization contract by H.F. Fisher and B. Miller and the President of the Republic of Texas and that he was a married man and the head of a family, when so introduced, and that he never as yet had received a certificate on application of I. Schuchard
Be it therefore known that the heirs of Johann Bauer, dec. are entitled to 640 acres for which this is his certificate to be located on any of the unappropriated territory within the limits of Fisher and Miller’scolony.
Feb. 28th 1855
John O. Meusebach, Commissioner for issuning certificated in Fisher and Miller’s Colony.
1 March 55
deadline set for extending issuance of patents in Fischer-
Miller grant by the law of Feb 3, 1854 (Solon, 84)
May 55
Henry Fischer comes to Europe as an emissary of the Texas &
German Emigration Co. (SBA 53: 54)
July 55
Johannes von Rosenberg sells his place and moves 50 miles
away (Meerscheidt letters, 159)
“Ernte schlecht ausgefallen,” (Meerscheidt Letters, 160)
28 August 55
In a sale of a part of his land to the north of the
homesite to Rothermel, Lewis refers to 30 foot easement
where the mail stage now runs. (Shuffler)
19 Sept 55
Fischer gives a complete report on the Texas and ger.
Emigration Co. to the Generalversammlung held at Neuwied
(SBA 53: 96)
Fall Term 55
German Emigration Co. vs. Stephen Crosby, Travis County
District Court Records, Fall Term, 1855, File 101, F/ 334.
Case dismisse Nov. 25, 1856 (Solon, 107)
Memorial of the Creditors of the German Emigration Co. to
the Legislature of the State of Texas, 1855.
1856
20 Feb 56
Otto v.Roeder sues John R. Robson over non-payment for an
installment of the 1400 acres he had bought fron OvR in the
Jack League. The case goes to the State Supreme Court in
- (Texas Reports, XX, 755)The suit mentions that
Roeder is being sued by James Chandler in Federal District
Court in Austin. (756)
27 March 56
William G. Webb, attorney for Robson, files answer to OvR
suit. case continued to fall court
April 56
Carl Wilhelm v. Rosenberg (1821-1901) sells his farm, a
part of Nassau, and moves to Austin. Arthur von Rosenberg
moves to Austin with his parents. He was appointed
draftsman at the first vacancy in October. (Rosenberg
Family History, 21) In 1861 he was appointed Chief
Draftsman viz. Meerscheidt letters, 159.
12 August 56
“Es thut mir sehr leid, dass die Eltern nach RT ziehen, wir
haben so viele frohe Stunden bei ihnen verlebt..”
(Meerscheidt letters, 173; Ancestral Voices, 158)
“Die Schwiegeeltern haben sich ein Haus in RT bauen lassen
und ziehen dort in Oktober dorthin, ihr Platz hier ist an
uns verpachtet, d.h. Herr Kellner… wird dort wohnen und
das Feld von 50 Acker wird mit meinem zusammen von uns
gemeinschaftlich bestellt.” (Meerscheidt letters, 172;
Ancestral Voices, 157)
eine kleine Feldassociation…socialismus
Bad drought
“…doch wird dies zum Winter,…aendern, dass Hellmuth bei
mir ein Haus aufsetzt, Libussa heirathet und mit uns
gemeinschaftlich das Feld bestellt, da er seinen Platz
verpachtet hat.”
“Es ist freilich sehr schwer fuer Jeden, der den Nektar
einer hoeheren gesellschaftlichen Stellung mit ihren
Guensten und Eitelkeiten gekostet hat, sich in einer
einfachen, natuerlichen Lage, aus der er erst alles sich
selbst schaffen soll, wohl zu fuehlen.” 178
October 1856
Peter Carl and amanda Fallier v. Rosenberg move to Round
Top where they have built a house. (Meerscheidt letters,
173; Ancestral Voices, 158)
10 Oct 56, Fall Term Fayette County District Court
OvR institutes suit, docket # 1078, agianst Wade brothers
and recovers judgment for $ 7,120.47 (Wade v Roeder, Spring
Term, 1858, from the Texas Sate Archives, p.3)
21 Nov 56
OvR demurs to plea by defendant Robson and ammends his
petition from the Feb 20th suit
25 Nov 56
Case of Ger. Em. Co. vs. Stephen Crosby dismissed when
Fischer fails to post bond (Solon, 107)
26 Nov 56
amended answer filed by Robson to above demural by OvR
caused continued until spring term by mutual consent of
attorneys
1856
Wagner an emmigrant and shoemaker buys apart of Nassau
Plantation (Shuffler, 28.)
1856
Johanna von Rosenberg-Hellmuth dies (Meerscheidt letters,
171, Rosenberg family history, 55)
1857
21 May 57
OvR, plaintiff, demurs to Robsons, defendats, demural to
OvR suit, originally filed 20 Feb 1856. The case had been
continued from the fall term of 1856. Case continued.
29 May 57
answer filed to OvR’s suit against Wades (#1078)
15 June 57
“Im Jahre 1855 ging Fischer dann nach Dtld. und schwindelte
den Leuten drueben vor, er koenne…, 15 Juni 57 wurde
dieses Land-Dokument unterzeichnet…” (Penninger, Fest-
ausgabe, 55)
3 Oct 57
Herman Gustav Hellmuth marries Libussa Froehlich, the
double cousin of his first wife (Rosenberg History, 54;
Meerscheidt letters, 172)
20 Nov 57
an ammendment filed in the case of OvR v. the Wades
“…there was a positive agreement and understanding
between said parties for a valuable consideration. , that the
said plaintiff was not to exact or call for the payment of
said notes until the said suit of J.A. Chandler vs. said
plaintiff pending in the Federal Court of Texas was disposed
of and that by said agreement said time of payment was
enlarged and extended../” (p. 22)
the following goes somewhere else:
second ammendment allowed by court to be filed whereby John
- Harcourt would allow judgment by consent to go to OvR
provided he would give up claim to recover land, which was
also sought in said suit, and this being agreed to by said
Roeder and his attorneys, judgment was entered by consent
(p.10)
30 Dec 57
Judgment rendered in suit of OvR v. J. Robson. Judgment in
favor of plaintiff for the sum of $ 1,437.80 plus all
costs. The court gave judgment for the money, but not for
the land. Ov R files a deposition of Vogelsang and
Ledbetter, but this is disallowed. The defendants asked for
a continuation and file an afidavit of one James E.
Gaither, who drew up the title bond, which turned out to be
defective in OvR’s favor. This is because, the way it is
worded, OvR only had to defend the title after all the
payments had been made, not as soon as the original
obligatory note had been executed, as is customary.
1858
March 58
judgment of lower court upheld in case of OvR v. John R.
Robson in suit commenced 20 Feb 56 by OvR against Robson
for $1050, and, as ammended for recovery of the land. OvR
won judgment for money but not for land and appealed.(Texas
Reports, V. XX, p 756-767)
1 April 58
injunction against OvR judgment for $7,120.47 against Wade
Bros.granted and dismissed said cause from docket (p. 29)
17 May 58
court action filed in Fayette County..James a. & William F.
Wade, plaintiffs, against Otto von Roeder, defendant, No.
- Prey for an injuncton to halt execution of OvR’s suit
filed in Fall term of 1857-see above.
18 May 58
OvR files counter suit in Dewitt county
31 May 58
plaintiffs, Wade brothers , file an ammendment to suit
against OvR
12 April 58
aforementioned suit comes to trial
2 June 58
decision in favor of OvR in cause 1078. $712.04 damages,
but OvR required to give an absolute deed to property, this
part of the decision he appeals, p.18.
1859
59
Hellmuth moves to RT where he establishes a school
(Rosenberg History, 54)
19 March 59
Petition for a writ of error filed by Wades. In other words
they appeal decision to revoke and dismiss the injunction
they had obtained against OvR’s original suit, i.e. cause #
- (p. 29)
5 April 59
Wade bros ammend writ of error petition filed in March,
towhit, that OvR and wife are now residents of Victoria
County, TX. (p. 33)
25 June 59
Joseph Wagner and Eugen von Rosenberg trade property.
Wagner sells for $800 lots 2 & 3 in block # 3 in Round Top,
bought from Hinze in ’55 (Fayette Deed Book O/ 499); Eugen
von Rosenberg sells for $1,300 the 100 acres he and
Theodore received Feb., 12, 1855 from his father and
mother. (Fayette Deed Book N/ 415).
1860
Jan 1860
OvR and wife summoned to Supreme Court meeting in Galveston
to answer appeal by Wade bros. (p. 22 of cause files)
Dec 1860
Judgment against Otto v. Roeder by U.S. Supreme Court.
(Chandler v. von Roeder et al, U.S. Reports, 65(1861): 224-
228; Tiling, 112)
Contact Sue McDonough or John VanDeReedt (202) 501 5401 or
5425 (National Archives)
1861
April 61 (according to Rosenberg Family of Texas)
Peter Carl von Rosenberg and his wife Amanda Fallier move
to Round Top and lease the Nassau home to “a company of
men”, including a Mr. Kellner and his sons; Helmuth,
Teichmueller and Meerscheidt. (Rosenberg Family of Texas,
95.) Note: both Helmuth and Meerscheidt are sons-in-law,
and Kellner is the father-in-law of Teichmueller, who is
the cousin of Meerscheidt, thus, they are all related in
one way or another. But according to the Meerscheidt
letters, the move occurred in Oct of 1856. (Meerscheidt
letters, 173; Ancestral Voices, 158)
61
Meerscheidt considers moving to Nicaragua (Meerscheidt
letters, 180)
1 October 1861
Last Generalversammlung of the the Verein, (SBA 67, 1-7)
see also Verein Index, 727)
1862
31 Dec 1862
Meeting of Germans in Shelby to discuss the draft situation (Cite From Confederate Civilian File, National Archives and Records Microfilm publication m346 Confederate Papers relating to Citizens or Business Firms RG 109,
Testimony of H. Maellenberend in the case of Reinhardt Hildebrandt
1864
1864
Amanda Fallier v. Rosenberg dies. The old man goes to live
with his daughter, Caroline Meerscheidt, in La Grange.
(Rosenberg Family History, 92)
1866
18 Feb 66
“The lawsuit over Nassau is now expected to be settled
soon. I will lose about $1,200 through it…” (To Wilhelm
- Rosenberg from his father, Ancestral Voices, 76)
Spring 1866
Survey of the Jack league made for Chandler by Z. M. P.
French. (Fayette Deed Book J/507).
2 April 66
Chandler sells Weyand 601 acres for $4,008. (Fayette Deed
Book 2/99-100) Since there is no deed recorded from P.
Carl von Rosenberg to Weyand, it can be inferred that
Weyand bought it directly from Chandler.
20 April 66
- Chandler sells Adolph Gross 210 acres of Jack League for
$840. (Fayette Deed Book R/770-1).
Adolph Gross is the brother of Julie Wilhelmine Gross- von
Rosenberg (1829-1894), the wife of Johannes Carl von
Rosenberg (1826-1909). Adolph’s daughter, Lina Maria,
married Friedrich Carl Theodor von Rosenberg in 1888. They
were first cousins. (Rosenberg Family History, 72)
- Chandler sells Theodore Michaelis 8 acres ofJack
League for $32. (Fayette Deed Book R/771,2).
James Chandler sells 88 acres of Jack League to Joseph
Wagner for $352. (Fayette Deed Book R/ 772,3).
18 Oct 66
Peter Carl von Rosenberg dies in the house of Meerscheidt
in La Grange of Typhus (Meerscheidt letters 225, Arthur to
his mother, 29 Nov. 1866, Ancestral Voices, 178)
22 Oct 66
James Chandler sells J.R. Robson 950 acres of a tract
“formely purchased from Otto von Roeder”. (Fayette Deed
Book S/456,7).
1867
1867
Samuel K. Lewis dies. Widow moves to Bosque county.
(Shuffler, 28.)
1868
1869
9 Dec 69
Another legal document filed concerning the aforementioned
Chandler sale to Robson, who has in the meantime died.
Mentions a law suit filed in Fayette County District Court
from the summer of 1869, wherein a compromise was reached,
between Chandler as defendant and one James Wade as
plaintiff. Wade gets the 950 acres for the consideration
of $6,656.40. (Fayette Deed Book J/ 507)
Suit was filed in the summer of 1869 in Fayette District
Court
1872
Loeffler reports 520 immigrants lamded in Galveston of which 420 were germans (The Houston Telegraph (Houston, Tex.), Vol. 38, No. 31, Ed. 1 Thursday, November 21, 1872)
1879
The oldest settler of Llano County, Justus Herber, who came to this county with the German Emigration Co. in 1845, is dead. (Weekly Democratic Statesman. (Austin, Tex.), Vol. 8, No. 15, Ed. 1 Thursday, January 16, 1879)
1880
1880
Friedrich Carl Theodor v. Rosenberg (1853-1936) gives up
the saddelry business at his father’s inn and mercantile
business. (Rosenberg Family History, 72.)
1881
J.G. Wagner buys 73 acres from Weyand
1882
1882
Joseph George Wagner, Sr. who owned adjoining property
(part of Nassau ) buys Lewis property. (Shuffler, 28.)
1887
26 Feb 87
The Groos family served as postmasters at Nassau until Feb
26, 1887, when the Nassau Post Office was moved to nearby
Shelby in Austin County. (J.G. Banik speech, reproducd in
the Congressional Record, Vol. 14, No. 101, June 13, 1968.)
1891
3 Nov 91
Weyand sells 593.66 acres of land to Otto Neumann (Fayette
Deed Book 43/325) all calls given; also Neumann appears on
the tax rolls with 465 acres. Apparently 345.730 acres of
this were from the original 600 bought from Peter Carl v.
Rosenberg, and which
1907
Otto Neumann sells to Michael Wolff 194 acres
1922
Michael Wolff and R. Wolff split
1938
- Wolff sells to Fritz Kiel
1967
Fritz Kiel sells to Charles Bybee (Fayette Deed Book 389/489)
1976
Bybee sells to Margaret B. Rather ((Fayette Deed Book 479/
997)
[1] This is, of course, an allusion to the aquatint process, discussed above.
[2] Referendar: title bestowed upon a candidate for a state position after passing an initial exam; usually as a step to becoming an attorney/solicitor, but also applied to teachers during their internships. It is not clear which, if either, of these situations apply to Schulz.
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