Jake and Mina

Wilhelmina Marie Christine Hellwege was born 163 years ago. Her birthday was July 1, 1858. This girl would most often be called Mina or something similar on future documents. Mina’s parents were Heinrich and Friedericke (Winter) Hellwege. A previous post was written about Mina’s father and his four wives titled, The Fourth Marriage. Mina was … More Jake and Mina

Ed and Julie Koenig

Before I get to today’s characters, I have this urge to show you a portion of a passenger list for the ship, Ella, that arrived in New Orleans on November 7, 1853. Take a look at this group of immigrants. I find this list fascinating. At the top and bottom are 3 names whose destination … More Ed and Julie Koenig

The Danz Instructors

A while back a post was written titled, Rudolph and His Danz Partner. It told the story of Rudolph and Lena Reisenbichler. Lena’s maiden name was Danz, and thus the title. I figure if Lena was a “Danz partner”, then her parents would be her “Danz instructors”. Today, you will be told the story of Lena’s … More The Danz Instructors

The Cook and His Bird

First, an explanation of the title.  The married couple for today is made up of a Koch and a Vogel.  In German, Koch means “cook” and Vogel means “bird”.  Enough said. Lydia Vogel is today’s birthday girl.  She was born on September 15, 1890 and baptized at Immanuel Lutheran Church in New Wells, Missouri.  She … More The Cook and His Bird