1942: JAPANESE, GERMANS AND ITALIANS FACE RESTRICTIONS

Early in WWII, I remember the mental panic many Americans went through as increasing incidents of fifth column sabotage were happening all over America. During that early period of the war, Japanese submarines were sighted off the coast of California and there was an incident or two where they actually lobbed shells onto the mainland. German U-Boats were seen off the Atlantic coast. Germany, Italy and Japan were all a part of what were termed "Axis" countries with whom America was at war. Unfortunately, many pro-America citizens whose lineage was traced to the Axis countries were also victims of the restrictions. Naturally, there were many at the time who were against the restrictions, However, fifth column fever was running high and the majority of Americans approved of the restricted areas.

1877: LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER - TRENTON

This church has an incredible historical heritage dating back to the mid 1800's. Many years ago, I was invited by "B.B.Wetzel to be a guest speaker at the mens' club of the church. What a fascinating building! It was known in early 20th century years as the Trinity German Evangelical Lutheran Church, shortened later to "Trinity Lutheran."

1936: MOCK GERMAN WEDDING AT GEORGE'S HAMILTON LIQUOR STORE

Thanks to Mack McNicoll and "Jersey Girl Elizabeth" for this great addition to the GERMAN-AMERICAN folder in the Hamilton Library's digital folder. I can't say that I know what a "mock wedding" is, but I am completely delighted to receive these photos.

The George's Liquor Store was a regular stop for me in the later days of my father's life when he was unable to get around. He would call me and ask me to pick up a fifth of Seagram's on my way over to the Glover house, and when I brought it to him, he would hand me 4 or 5 dollars, not realizing that I paid 12 or 13. Of course, I never called him on it. He was living in the era of 19 cents per gallon gas and 25 cent packs of cigarettes.

THANKS AGAIN FOR THE PHOTOS, MACK, AND "JERSEY GIRL ELIZABETH!"

1905 German-American Volksfest at Hill's Grove

Here is an article relating to a Volkfest held by the German-American families from the early part of the 20th century who came from "Swabia" in Southern Germany, Hill's Grove was part of the propery owend by the Franz Hill Brewery on North Olden Avenue next to the Assanpink Creek. For further info on this branch of German ethnicity, go to Google, type in Wikipedia German Schwaben and check the many links. Once again, the above article lists the names of some of our early 20th century German-American area residents.

Schwaben (Swabia) is located in the southwest of Bavaria. (Perhaps not too far from where I was stationed during my Army time in Bad Aibling, Bavaria