Title: "Letters from Southern Germany, A Journey Through Time and Family, 1863-1897" by Friederike Susette Eberhard
Introduction:
In the intricacies of history lie hidden stories, and within familial connections reside the echoes of the past. Friederike Susette Eberhard's book, "Letters from Southern Germany (Briefe aus Alt-Wuerttemberg)," unfolds as a compelling narrative, bringing to life a collection of over 100 letters exchanged between the author's great-great-grandparents, Carl and Clara Deusch, neé Finckh. Published after the passing of Eberhard's father in 2014, these letters emerge as a priceless historical document that bridges the gap between generations and provides a unique perspective on life in 19th-century Germany.
The narrative opens with a reflection on the rarity of possessing letters from great-great-grandparents, emphasizing the fortuitous discovery of a familial treasure trove. Carl and Clara's letters, penned over 150 years ago, act as a time machine, transporting readers to a bygone era and allowing them to immerse themselves in the thoughts and worldviews of their ancestors. The familial connections are complex yet intimate, with Carl and Clara being cousins and their mothers being sisters, weaving a rich tapestry of relationships.
Carl, a merchant and later a commercial counsellor, emerges as the central figure in this familial saga. The letters, serving as his diary, capture the essence of his caring and amiable nature, as well as his love for playful wordplay and a delightful sense of humor. His extensive travels are chronicled through the letters, revealing not only personal anecdotes but also a deep interest in world history and politics.
The familial narrative extends to the roots of the J.M. Göppinger trading house, founded by Carl and Clara's common ancestor, Jakob Melchior Göppinger. Eberhard delves into the intriguing possibility of the Göppinger family's Jewish roots, shedding light on the naming conventions and potential conversion to Protestantism during the Reformation.
In contrast to Carl's ventures, Clara, an intelligent woman and daughter of pharmacist Noah Finck, navigates the complexities of managing a large household and raising five children. Her frequent visits to health resorts become windows into the therapeutic treatments of the time, showcasing the social events where equals gathered. The limitations imposed on women in the 19th century are evident, reflecting an era where managing the household and caring for the family were perceived as their primary roles.
The vibrant life in Reutlingen during the second half of the 19th century unfolds, with diverse cultural events, the advent of the railway, and the shadows cast by wars with Prussia in 1866 and France in 1870. The challenges of deciphering the 19th-century Kurrent script add a layer of dedication to the preservation of this familial history, showcasing the author's commitment to unlocking the stories embedded in these letters.
Conclusion:
"Letters from Southern Germany" stands as a testament to the richness of familial history and the intricate threads that connect generations. Friederike Susette Eberhard's work not only preserves the voices of Carl and Clara Deusch but also paints a vivid picture of life in 19th-century Reutlingen. As the saying goes, "In Württemberg, everyone is related," and through this book, readers are invited to partake in the intimate conversations and experiences of their own ancestors. The letters of Carl and Clara become a bridge across time, connecting past and present, and ensuring that their stories endure for future generations.
