[Cover] Letters from America No. 1 from Georg 1844 pages 1 to 5 to No. 2 from Georg 1845 pages 6 to 9 to Peter No. 3 from Peter 1849 pages 10 to 13 to Georg No. 4 from Peter 1850 pages 13 to 17 to Georg No. 5 from Peter 1853 pages 17 to 20 to Georg No. 6 from Hans 1849 pages 20 to 21 to Georg No. 7 from Jac.Sutter 1850 pages 28 to 29 to Georg No. 8 from Joh.Sutter 1851 pages 26 to 27 to Georg No. 9 from Chr.Krattli 1854 pages 21 to 23 to Georg No. 10 from Sam.Allemann 1849 pages 23 to 25 to Georg No. 10 from Pet.Allemann 1849 page 25 to Georg [page 1] Travel letter No. 1 Rotterdam, 4 March 1844 (from Gg.Krattli) On 26 Feb. we arrived at Wallenstatt, where cousin Jork (brother Roth-Petsch) just met us. This was now the first day in which we marched, but not only to Wallenstatt on foot. We overtook the driver Hans, whom I knew well from Chur, at the Tardis bridge and delivered our baggage to him. This waggoner Hans had a cart-load of rags and urged us to board his rag wagon. This appeared to us as a bad harbinger. We lodged nowhere without compensation as with Sutter and Jork, and nowhere any better. From the 27th an increasing new and strangemade appearance as much as our eyes could and would comprehend, until tired. Imagine, the extreme distance we traveled in so short a time. I would gladly point out this distance in hours, but unable to do this exactly. These would have been the day in which the beautiful houses in old Zurich and its romantically beautiful surroundings, for none other (I must remark) has such luxuriant meadows, ornamental grounds, a veritable Paradise. Such as we also saw (if I am not mistaken) up at Kaltbrunn at the beautiful Schmerikon schoolhouse. Without a map one soon loses sense of place. You yourself can easily realize this, which is circumstance now that makes my writing so incomplete. For we saw so much, which certainly would have interested us more, if we had recognized it better. For this we should have had a map in hand, which we did not have. From the 27th to the 28th, we drove on the Post the night through, to Basel. In Zurich we remained only 3/4 hour, and know little about the intermediate places and areas. [page 2] It rained until morning. Still, in Rheinfelden it was nice and the rain stopped. Here we saw our native Rhein again, slowly coursing between meadows and vineyards, not too luxuriant, and the two-story high cliffs that regulate the border and the bed of its course. Basel is big, with much of value to see. Here is the most beautiful building I ever saw and the largest, the Hospital. We met with a Malanser who guided us around for a time. Also the shooting grounds we saw, with much still to finish around the square. We had time enough to look around because we missed the train. In the afternoon we took the Omnibus to the railway, which is under construction. At the French border we had a long view of the Basel fortification, until all our baggage was cleared by customs. On the Swiss post we did not have to pay on four pounds overweight on the 84 pounds. We left at two thirty and eight thirty we were in Strassburg, lodging in Wilden Mann (The Wild Man). The train made so many local stops for passengers leaving and boarding. Most of the named places ended in ...heim. The railway is never more than a quarter to a half hour distant. Three times we met with trains that whistled by us in a moment. Samuel commented that we held up more than we proceeded, not too exaggerated. Our steam engine is at the front, as large as a normal Post coach, dragging a number of heavily laden cars. The Untervaz people, with their many animals, were not in position to travel so much. The railway is now also constructed to Strassburg with the houses already demolished beside the gas works. Noteworthy is the tower of the cathedral. [page 3] Strassburg is lively, without many extra beautiful homes. But beautiful fortifications. populated by prostitutes and soldiers. Here I saw large two-wheeled freighters drawn by a single horse. Only the Omnibus and coaches have 4 wheels. On the 29th at 12:30 the Omnibus drove us to the steamship on the Rhein. By 8 o'clock we were in Mannheim. On the journey we became friends with a Frenchman. He was well informed and led us to the "Konig von Portugal" (The King of Portugal) where we were content and merry. We had proceeded a matter of 40 hours. In Mannheim it is lovely, I must say. At night we drove to Cologne, some 50 hours distant. Lodged in Cologne at the "4 Jahreszeiten" (The 4 Seasons) arriving there 9 in the evening, March 1st. March 2 at 5 o'clock we left. I must now remark that our Frenchman left us at Singen, where he was employed as bartender, with tears at parting. Stops were made at numerous places for boarding and leaving, and maps provided with the Conductor giving talks and replying to questions. Here we met with many emigrants of all nationalities, with entire households. Two Zurich women were among them, one with an extraordinarily beautiful little daughter. We were countrymen and with great pleasure, they joined us. The Cologne association has 22 ships. At 9 in the evening we were in Nimwegen, a village or nest in Holland. Everyone got out. Everyone wanted a feather of the goose. The tavern keepers wanted guests; the swindlers wanted to show you around. A woman among the travelers directed the entire stream to the house of a Mrs. Koch which she already recommended on board ship. I asked a waiter on board ship and he also recommended it. I believe it was a speculation of the woman, to obtain guests in her interest. [page 4] If the rascality in American cities is greater than in Holland, and one does not know better, it must be miserable. Were we taken in Nimwegen? The recommendation of H. Strohl of a respectable inn-keeper in Rotterdam, low-priced and speaks German, is recommended for every traveler. Mr. Kofan, inn-keeper of "Stadt Mainz" in Rotterdam. March 3rd at 6 in the morning, Nimwegen for Rotterdam. In lodging at 2 o'clock. Here Solomon Capeller came to mind. He wrote, that in an American seaport more masts are to be seen than larches in Zamunt or Vazzerland, including the small trees. It is nice here; you can not imagine what we see. Warships, Steamboats, Sailing ships, small and large buildings all of bricks and tile. A row of houses, two rows of ships, another row of ships, again a row of houses, and so forth. I do not know how many canals exist in the city, hourlong boulevard trees, pleasure parks, estates, and meadows whose waterways serve as hedges. Such estates I have never seen in my life. One sees here only black and white, and in exception, red and white spotted cattle. Two ships loaded with cattle were met, one going to Antwerp, the other up the Rhein to Prussia. The steamboats practically run up the Rhein as fast as downstream. Even where current is the fastest in Bingebloch which is faster than the Quartagiessa. We must leave Rotterdam on March 5th. Still have Mass there. Imagine it different than in Chur. [page 5] Enough slovenly people here. I could tell you a hundred and a thousand observations which you would find strange and curious. We are now with the London steamship with cost of 700 French francs, with all and every delight headed for Havre and the country parish with the steam packet boat. Heartiest greetings from Georg and Samuel Allemann Our ship is well 65 paces long, and about 300 passengers. A family man, I recommend transport director Hull. Supply yourself fully at Zurich with bedding and utensils necessary to cook on board ship. For everyone not in cabin must do this. Cabin is too expensive for one of us. If one prepares this way, you know what it will cost to New York. This I believe to be the best, on many unnamed reasons. Just now a Swabian arrived in 3 times 24 hours from Strassburg by Post. tomorrow we leave, March 8. It is nice in Havre, and everywhere the most praiseworthy harbor for America passengers, which even many Hollanders admit. Sam. Allemann. Georg Krattli 26./II at Wallenstadt 27./28. to Basel 28. 2 1/2 - 7 1/2 Basel - Strassburg 29. 12 1/2 - 8 Strassburg - Mannheim by Ship 29. evening Mannheim - Cologne by Ship 2.III 5M - 9 evening Cologne - Nimwegen by Ship 3/III 6 2 Nimwegen - Rotterdam by Ship Cook yourself 5./III Rotterdam - Havre in own bed 8./III Havre - New York sleeping [Page 6] Letter No. 2 Herman 16 October 1845 Dear Father I have now left my old place, Tannery in Poughkeepsie, New York, and informed my friend Allemann of my intention to go into a new States to become self-supporting in one way or another. I left him well and in good health in New York August 18. He is looking for a letter shortly. I hope our last letters have arrived with you. My travels were from New York to Albany, Schenectady, Utica, Rochester, Buffalo, then Lakes Erie, Huron, and Michigan. In Milwaukee I go out and saw part of Wisconsin territory. Also visited Bishop Henni, who took me in as one Swiss to another, brotherly and welcome as a guest. I told him of the foreign and he told me of Wisconsin. Showed me his new church and shared his present activity. He wanted to build a Seminary and so forth, and advised me to remain in Milwaukee where he lives, and go into business. If I had had enough money for it, I would have stayed. But it is a bit too far North, in a land where one can still choose. However, it is very healthy, good water and enough wood, the best market in the new states. They raise the same as you and presently the same climate and is progressing rapidly. A family Riederer from Guscha settled some 24 english miles from Milwaukee and is very satisfied with his property. For the laboring class it is not superior in the new states. For them the old states are better. Higher wages and more industry. I then left Milwaukee and traveled Illinois. The best place or land I ever saw was in Chicago, Springfield, Peoria, Evansville. From there I went to Missouri. St. Louis is a big city on the Mississippi [Page 7] Missouri and Illinois rivers. I spent 5 days there. Saw the most Swiss since I have been in America. Graubunden, St.Galle, and I met the coppersmith Lampert from Jenins. He is in good health and lives in Illinois. He also knows the brother of Grass on the toll bridge, who also is well. It is unhealthy in Illinois, because of fever. Worst in the south, and also in St. Louis. Land in Illinois is flat, and for days you will see no stone exceeding the size of an apple. And wood is rare although there are places with sufficient. the market is best toward Lake Michigan. In Wisconsin wheat is 73 to 75 cents a bushel. In Chicago, 70 to 73 cents. In Peoria and St. Louis I met Lucas Pilat and Martin Krattli. They inquired about me and Samuel. They had heard nothing from Samuel in New York, and in the meantime someone had told them I had recently left New York to go to the interior. They had news from the old Homeland but no letters. The phlegma had overtaken them; "out of sight, out of mind." As we went ashore we met cousin Jori on horseback, who observed us landing but did not recognize me until I greeted him. Our hearts were filled with something unlike blood and water. He marveled once again that it could be possible that we meet again so far from our continental Homeland. But it was so. I went with him at once to his new Possession 9 miles from Hermann. I surprised my dear old church members. All are well. Only Georg's little one is a bit lame in the left foot, yet we have hopes it will turn out better. He is a stout youngster, heavyset and strong. In my stay I have met with everyone. The cousin has 160 acres, and Hans Jori 80 acres first grade. Land, water, springs, wood, and stone, all in excess. That is a place for farmers. [Page 8] The location is very healthy, the climate mild, and the land hilly, so that we need never expect the land will be sold and become a beneficiary to forestry. Not that the land is not rich enough, but because in such places the heavy rains would wash away the good ground. For this reason, only the level land is claimed and purchased. Progress is so fast that already the best lands are taken as far as 8 miles from Hermann. No one in good health should delay coming here. I wish you were all here. The Gotti. Nic. Krattli made inquiry in a letter that the cousin let me read, greeted him from me and told him, I invited him cordially, to come without hesitation. I can not help him much here. As for the rest, you can share the letter among you and deal with him as you wish. The rules here are admittedly not so many, one must realize that all is still so new and not many industries at hand. But, also, that in the old states it is not so easy to begin farming with 2 to 3,000 dollars, whereas here an acre of homestead land can be had for $1.25 an acre. In a few years it will be different here also. The land and the climate is agreeable for everything cotton and grapes. One is now already growing grapes in Ohio and here in Hermann such an attempt was favorable in some communities, doubling the daring and recognized by all as a rewarding venture. In short no time was I better pleased with a place than here, even if ------------------------------- On the margin: Those who would travel, commit themselves soon after New Year. At least 2 1/2 months for the voyage from Havre to New Orleans. There is less occasion in summer as in January to April. - Wagner J and coppersmith S are in New York and their two letters are here. Sending 4 scythes and a crosscut saw. ------------------------------- [Page 9] gives fever. With you, consumption is common, which we hardly know here, and little of other sicknesses. I have viewed a piece of land, soon to be admeasured by the county surveyor. It lies on the same creek that H.J. and Georg settled on, right in the neighborhood. I try for one of my brothers H. or J. to come to me and also settle in my neighborhood. I believe they will never regret it. The land is not the best but costs money to build up, and materials are dearer than by you or in New York, especially copper utensils. One chooses more of ironware. Every emigrant need not purchase that which he brings with him. You know in the Homeland what freight costs to the ocean, when you make accord with the agent what would be the most advisable. By way of Havre to New York or New Orleans and then to Hermann. From Havre to here you will have to cook on you own utensils and furnish them. this is the cheapest and simplest journey. Send me money as soon as possible. As much as you can. give it to a dealer for exchange to St. Louis plus discount. There I can receive it. Do not hesitate, it will bring a shortcoming. For here a 10% tax is computed. I will invite brother Peter to come over. Alone, and in his place and circumstances he can make it in Vaz, but my other brothers I advise to come ever, at least first without postponing. Oh, if I had the means at hand, I could double my money every 2 years. But, alone, small ships stay ashore. I am in good health, and am glad to assume that you all are too. Greet everyone, Father, Brothers, Sisters, Sisters in law, Zinsli and his wife, and Samuel and his people. Friends and relatives who are loved and dear in hill and dale, and especially Sutter. Your Georg Krattli For overseas it costs H.J. and Cousin, nothing, and from New Orleans also nothing (Hans + Jakob) --------------------------- On the margin: From cousin Georg and his Dorothy heartiest greetings to her people. They have not had a letter in five months. --------------------------- [Page 10] Letter No. 3 First Creek, 31 December 1849 Peter to Georg, For a full 7 months we have answered your letter, received through Battaglia, which possibly is lost so I will repeat the contents. Regarding your land, I can not accept you proposal. But if the money you have here is to apply to clothing and implements, the tannery works excepted, you can build house and barn and kitchen garden plus the unsold objects in the house (exclusive of the smithy work) for it. You recognize the difficulties that apply to your land, to be able to sell it dearly. Battaglia did not come to view it, and the letters he brought were all opened. I would urge that you place your letters in the Post. You quoted him $400, and I if it were mine, would offer it for 200. All this time I have offered for sale at 400. No one offered to give that much, for too little is made. If you do not accept the above offer, I will leave it to you to offer the land for sale. Possibly opportunity comes for it, you can do the same with our house (Hintergasse). I also wrote to Says, without reply as well as from Haldenstein, Maienfeld, Chur, and Wallenstadt, where ever we write. We will not trouble these people any more later. They are not interested. It appears to me that indifference is even greater in Europe than here. Information and news from over there are best supplied by Jh. Krattli. The rest of us receive, when it is well, a hurriedly prepared report once a year. The fence and Buhls on your land are rotting, and several times we have saved them from fires and partially restored them. But all things equal. Luzi made the half, and then died. On the other half I don't expect you will want to provide. Legally the widow can take 200 dollars in advance, the [Page 11] rest then divided among the debtors. Urshi uses this, and then there is little remaining. The land was not changed and Prurmont will not be considered. We, and some others will not receive much as cash money, the $26 that we loaned. J. Micheli has his accord ready, and J. Allemann has not made one yet. I requested that he pay it, but he does not want to. Only to make the Buhls which do not serve on you lands. He can make them now, now that brother Hans has begun. Last summer was a time of fear. The cholera raged here too and will be kept in memory a long time by many. Not quite so bad in the country as in the cities. A casualty in Hermann was a Bundner (Swiss), named Gartmann of Ilanz. Many recovered. Dr. Steiger of St. Galle who just settled, gave essential services. Of those who died, I name Wagner, Bracher, Wiedersprach. In mid July it was epidemic. 60 to 70 persons died in Hermann, and fewer in surrounding area. Everyone had antidote (remedy) in the home. In St. Louis the sickness raged terribly. 10 - 1200 died daily for a time. Many fled outside, to the land, even some in Hermann. We were quite healthy throughout the summer. With exception of little Georg, who is now better again. The father in law is now ill with his winter complaint. It was a wet summer. The harvest was good but wheat suffered a little from frost. Grapes on the south side were good. Those facing north and west had rust. Viniculture is making gratifying progress. We have 3/4 acre planted and will soon harvest from 150 stalks. Sutter possesses a beautiful vineyard of 1 1/4 acres, 1 acre now bearing. Grass is planting this year. Last year winter he fenced 50 acres to field and grapes. Sasker is also planting a vineyard. And Greta has made good wine already this year. Margreth Philipp married Huttenrauch, her sister married earlier with Bauer Georg, both are doing well. Jac. Philipp married one from Maienfeld, a Boesch. The brothers Jacob and Michel are together. They have improved 200 acres in the big Prairie under Joh. Luzi, 30 acres under fence. Joh. Micheli's Dorothea married Georg Gesner. [Page 12] They are mostly not near each other. Cousin Georg had a daughter last Spring. Sasker's are building a church. Preachers are alternately Rauschenbach and Kubing. Jakob Sutter has purchased 40 acres land, not far from J. Sutter. He is now building a house on it. Daniel Hug and Martin Krattli are still jolly, and Lenz is still a small man but his ancestor is not a wide one either. The old Philipp is servant of his Urschi. And the old Lucasi is happy with her Schinder. this one has sold his land an improved 40 acres. His daughters work hard. Zeller of Zizers, Kaiser, Peter Josen, Marei's husband, a Mueller from Zizers, a Spading and Spiess are at Hermann and earn more money. Ordinary laborer 75 cents a day, a mason $1.25. Our friend Allemann, carpenter, works with Sutter. Both have ordered 60,000 bricks to build houses. They bought land from Teis, plus cattle and implements for 500 dollars. Wine casks are sold by them with 70 dollar profit. The theatre association gives performances for the support of political fugitives. man $70 . They also collect for them otherwise. The bridge of the Creek in Hermann will soon be finished, costing over $5000. A Catholic church has been built up to the roof, and the wharf extended. A market is to be built, a district School is built, and many homes. Every heap of stones in the area are turned over and dearly paid for. Farmers are building stone houses. Market prices: Wheat 60 - 70 cents, Corn 23 - 30 cents, barley 80 - 90 cents, Pork 2, Beef 3, lard 5 cents a pound. Wine is 2 in bottles, 1 1/4 to 1.75 a gallon. Cows 10 - 16, a pair of oxen 40 - 60. We had our land surveyed last year and together have 520 acres. We have 38 cattle and 6 horses. Those on First Creek have purchased 40 acres for a school. There will be two teachers with pay of $12 a month. [Page 13] Recently I heard sister Lisa is no longer with you? Further, I heard you desire a rich wife and have run around all over. But they refuse you, you are too old. Greetings to all my family from Peter Krattli. Letter No. 4 First Creek at Hermann, 27 August 1850 Dear Brother I received your letter of February on 12 May plus an exchange for Hans of $404 60 day sight draft payable in New York. I received the money Aug. 12. Hans left for California on 30 April in company with Michel Philipp and a Zuricher. They planned to travel over Panama but gave up as too costly. They purchased a wagon and three sets oxen and will travel over the prairie. S. Allemann is making it in company with Martens, who have horse drawn transport. Further, from our vicinity, Georg Hufner, Bauer and Haag, Heck, Gubler and Wieland with oxen, Gabriel Straub, company Kol with horses, Krauter jun. and company with oxen journey to California. From all parts of the Union people are traveling over the flat prairies. The New York State newspaper reports 40,000 with 8,900 wagons passed Fort Laramie by 1 July. And still many more to come. I believe many more journey by way of Panama. With good luck, the journey over prairie with wagon takes 4 months. The newspaper reports say an extreme confusion exists, people from all nations on earth. Murder and death is the order of the day. Another writes that life and property are not safe, and another, that it is an inexhaustible land of gold. Found on the mountain top as in the valley and in the streams. One can earn $4 daily even if you only wash street dirt. Still, he says, everyone will regret the day the journey began. The steamer Georgia lately brought 1.5 million in gold from California, and the ship Cheroka 2.5 million in gold dust. [Page 14] The steamer California 1.3 million, and 180 passengers. All these ships landed in New York. Brother Hans still wrote me May 12 from Independence, that it is well up to now. They will leave for the prairies on the 13th, supplied with necessary provisions. Until they reach California I will not hear from them. He gave me power of attorney over his property and moneys, believing you would not do it for him. The money you have here always was at his disposal. But he meant, if he would not receive something from abroad, he would be limited and would rather not attempt anything. Therefor his decision to go to California. He would abandon the $50 he had paid on his land. I advised him to pay for the land, when inheritance comes from abroad. He will then be glad, that you have not left him in debt. If it is possible, later in the year to send something, do not discontinue. In case it does not turn out for him over there, I can help from here. We hope it will not be necessary. He may be one of the lucky ones and return in a year laden with gold, to Missouri. I believe, if you had had the hood fortune to go to California with Sutter at that time, be a millionaire now. At that time you would have arrived at a full pot. Since that time, some 36 million dollars have been created and half of it brought to the United States. Congress has debated 7 months now, if California and New Mexico are to be admitted to the Union. Both have applied, and declared against slavery. The South wants to admit them, for the admission benefits them as much as the North. One could not move there with slaves as property. For this reason Congress declines the admission, causing the [Page 15] territories to suffer on law and order. Recently it was reported California wanted to declare independence and be free if Congress could not agree. Every citizen was levied a tax of $20, if he wanted to mine for gold. There was opposition to this, because of so many foreigners, that there might be collision. A railroad is to be built to the Pacific Ocean, which will probably run through our county. The German candidates, Beimer and Bassal failed in the last election as Judge, when english were voted in. Whigs were elected to senators and representatives. President Taylor died suddenly, and Filmore of New York is president. Minnesota has been admitted as a new State. The railway will soon go there, but Iowa and Wisconsin are threshed off. There are so many dissatisfied. The winter was too long and too cold, the summer too short and too hot, particularly in Wisconsin. The corn froze every late Fall. The Hirza Dolf from Igis is in Milwaukee, but is dissatisfied and Plaisch is there too and has brought with him many grapes. In Wisconsin the viniculture will not succeed. This year the grape clusters in Missouri will barely ripen. The grapes are barely beginning to speckle. At other times be almost ripe at this time. We had a hot summer. One hundred in the shade was common. Beginning August until now, it was always hot, day and night. One perspi-red in the shade, at doing nothing. Now the heat has let up, and the nights are cool. It will not be a good wine year. The birds and the honeydew did much damage, and the leaves are falling off. Our first planting will yield some. We planted 800 vines. the apple and peach trees are practically breaking down with fruit, but peaches will hardly ripen. Spring was so cold and so late. Prices raised because of the long winter, with many cattle in trouble because of lack of feed. Corn is 50, 60 in the city, wheat $1.05. Oxen and horses increase in price because of ready sale, for California. [Page 16] Sutter sold the wine of Hans for $90. Late in the year, I bought a mare for $30, which would have brought $50 in Spring. Of the horses I got from Hans I only retain the stud who has turned into a very lovely animal. The one I bought is even more beautiful and I wouldn't part with either under $60. Besides this we have two more geldings. This Spring we sold 2 yokes oxen for $55 and $50, a pair of steers for 24, 4 cows at 12, 2 light horses for $60. Fifteen bushels wheat at $1.05, and more than 100 bushels corn at 45 - 50 cents, fifteen of potatoes at 30 cents. We also make mincemeat at 20 cents a pound ( = 453 gramm) cheese for 12 1/2 cents, and further, some wool, tallow, and butter. We have the pasture drained and cleaned. Georg Gesner from Seewis undertook this for $20. He married J.Micheli's Dorothea. 8 days ago, I, Menga and the two children attended the wedding of Chr. Kasshof, whose neat little wife is from the city. People are valiantly engaging in viniculture. Everyone at least an acre, some with much more. Two from Unterwall recently wanted to purchase land on the Gasconade, to establish a 50 to 60 acre vineyard. Those from Hermann again received the premium this year. Daniel was fortunate enough to receive $100 in gold. You believe that cousin Jork and Lenz are not very up to date. That is right, lazy and indifferent, always having to buy and nothing to sell, brings you down. In no year has he sowed enough for his own need. Cholera has appeared again but not as strong as last year. None appeared in Hermann --- Sam Allemann in Sask, was sick but is recovering. I would have visited him but am lame and can not ride a horse. A horse hurt me badly from knee to foot, which happened at plowing. In 8 days I expect to be in shape again. this year we had exceptionally bad luck. Hardly had father in law from Harter recovered from a long illness, when on May 2 a heavy ox sprang over little Menga and broke her left thigh and other bruises. [Page 17] Three weeks later Menga was on childbed, and a stillbirth followed. She was in very bad condition. The doctor, however had her well recovered again. The stillbirth is blamed by the doctor and midwife (from Thusis) on the fright and broken leg. Now we are again in good health. The immigration has decreased. The war must be reason for it. Destitute political refugees arrive in numbers. And are supported. Hector (Bader's) is now farmer at Beberil (Belleville?), Illinois. The fortifications serve Misazi of Kanan. In Iowa many Hungarian refugees are settling. Garibaldi came to New York recently. Many Greetings to all from your brother Peter. Letter No. 5 First Creek, 24 March 1853 Dear brother, Although I hardly find time to write a letter, I must inform you of our present condition. We are also debating a project. A year ago, Joh. Sutter drove a herd of cattle to California. He returned last winter. His effort was successful. Now we journey in company to increase the scale of the business. 300 head of cattle, 10 horses, 4 wagons with provisions, 20 to 24 men as helpers, compose the train. That costs much money, and cattle now have a price here than ever before. Cows to $20, a pair of oxen 60, horses $100, provisions 10 to 12 cents a pound dried Pork. With no bad luck, we hope to make a gold earning without mining. Joh. Sutter purchased over 300 acres land in Marysville, California, at $10 an acre. He bought it from old Sutter, who received him well and nursed him in an illness. And bought his cattle, horses and wagon at a good price. And gave him the overseeing of his laborers, paying $75 a month, and offered $120 if he stayed longer. When he left, he drove him 8 miles and gave him his portrait and $500 in case he should become embarrassed for money. Of this you can see, that Joh. Sutter went out of his way. If we return there, we will not be strangers. Sutter also brought information on brother Hans. He is in the mines at Jacksonville. He is there, very greedy, and will not sell a cent [Page 18] without the greatest need, not to reduce the heap of gold he has accumulated. He has written me only once. S. Allemann is still over there, with a large company, in a grand project. Will he succeed? Michel Philipp apparently died. No one knows anything about him. Among our helpers are G. Krattli, cousin Sam. Allemann, coppersmith Mathis Danuser, Thomali's son, and the rest are unknown to me. The two brothers, Christ and Sylvester Krattli are taking 23 cattle and are journeying with us. A renters life does not suit them any more, for the sister married with Oelschlager. A. Grass lives happily with his colony and has a hearty youngster, possibly two pretty soon. He will not set things on course and remain a farmer. My family, as will Sutter's, will remain on the farm. I have installed a man for a year for 100 pounds (english). Your land I sold two years ago for $400 on credit. It is better, than just to idle it. He improved in the house and pays 6% interest, is unmarried, from Darmstadt, named Willmann. He also goes with us to California. The land stays as security. In Balde a railway is being build over Hermann, from St. Louis to the Pacific. Yet, up to now there is no speculation in land values. One can presently by land cheaper than 2 to 4 years ago. The viniculture had several years failure, causing the main reason for the emigration to California. Even this year, some 50 from our area are going there. Farming is now better than formerly because of better prices than formerly. Now if the railway goes through it will be even better. By then we will be back from California and if we stay healthy and meet no other bad luck, we will have a contemplative life. may even come to make a visit to Switzerland, if a Switzerland survives to then. [Page 19] Pastor Morell wants to make you a friendly greeting. His writing gave us great pleasure. As regards his brother, we only know he is coming back this winter from California. Loaded with gold. he is said to have purchased a significant farmland at Portland. In our family there have been no changes other than additions, of a girl Elisabeth, --- Margaretha and Georg are at school. Many now have scarlet fever. We, in First, have built a roomy schoolhouse between Kahr and Kluser. School is held all year, in German and English instruction. Monthly pay $15. Father in law is again suffering his winter illness. In late Fall I had to endure an illness, as did Margaretha lasting from 3 to 4 weeks. Our old mother is now better, now worse. Menga now is very well, and I am too. I hope this letter finds you all in the best of health. Let no one fool you in you situation, with health you will progress. Otherwise I would assume heavy burdens and dangers not to remain in the condition I am. Our Sutter does not hold back in fear of dangers, and I will follow him. In 14 days we will depart with our caravan. Maybe we may return in a year, possibly two, it all depends. As in the olden Fatherland, happiness may be at home. your Peter You will have learned that I made a great journey last year. 12 April 1852 we departed Hermann with a small herd cattle. With intent to earn my keep in the journey expenses. I was fortunate that, over all, I won no less than 6600 old "bundner Gulden". The journey required 5 months, to Marysville. I journeyed in my own manner and succeeded more than most. On the 11 April now, a second journey, decided by Peters in California. I would gladly write you of the journey to and from California, but time will not allow. for I am only back 3 weeks and there is so much to do. I and your brothers are on our feet day and night. I hope everything will be rewarded. You must have received my last letter certifying about [page 20] Allemann's money. Forward the Allemann accounts to Grass. he can not help J. Marg. (Allem. Sister in law). She has to pay the balance. My family will also remain on the farm, which I have enlarged considerably so that I can make my living here as well as anybody. No, I want that my family will live as well as any other, or nothing! Greet my parents at Berg (Mastrils) and all the relatives. Particularly your brothers. Are old Menga and you still single? If you should be overtaken some by heavy thunder and lightning, remember that Peter and I will have to endure something much stronger. Five months we will be without a roof over our heads. Maybe we will be returned within a year. Most likely something will be started in California. Then I will write you from there. (1853/III) Many greetings from Joh. Sutter. Letter No. 6 May 1849 Dear Georg, I wrote you, to send me my money as soon as possible, but have received nothing, and no letter. I purchased 120 acres from Joh. Amling, costing $440. Paid $200 cash, and $200 I owe at 6% interest. I have to pay the rest in a year. Send me my money and do not wait any longer, I am now in debt and need it. Next Spring I will occupy my land. 8 acres are cleared and a house and log cabin are there. It is good land, and beautiful woods at hand. Lies a good mile behind my land on First Creek. The news from here you will read in Peter's letter. I anticipate a reply from you with in 4 months. I am well. {Page 25} Many greetings to my relations from Hans [Page 21] In short, I will explain the difference between 2 to 3 years earlier. The Government land (homestead) is now being acquired almost all of it for the wood or vineyards. Between our land and Bergenkamp, four separate places have been bought since then. Only one smithy (blacksmith) has been established, Veraguth from Thusis. A number of others have started in Bresche Fork and much of it has been bought up. Between John Birding and Kahr is now a country home. Bruns is no longer with Kahr has the place between Kahr and Grosshock. Another number have started between Kahr and Jordan. And between Jordan and Chennen Ochsner of Zurich. Between Chen and Hafner are 3 farmers now. And more additional has been bought. Forster has received company. Behind Wehrli Schraub's place a Kaufmann from Tirol has purchased. He has a brother with him who is a cleric, a Jesuit and an author, now both being farmers. Schiffer has bought Wess's place and is said to have platted a town. Last summer steamboats went up the Gasconade. Between Mak Meine's place and the mouth of First Creek is swarming with new ones. They do not buy Government land, the closer to Hermann the dearer. At First Creek there is no Government land any more to be had. Yet many will still try to find a yerd or so. I have just acquired the 50 acres of Stimmes. If no one comes between it, I know of more where one could profit considerably. But the dear Dollar would then be gone. If I still have anything coming, you can send it to me. Georg Martin is learning cooperage in St. Louis. There is not good cooper in Hermann who could start a cooperage. your brother Peter. Letter No. 9 First Creek 9./12. April 1854 (in Chur 5 May) To G. Krattli at Gerber Fischer in Chur. I find myself here a year already and since then on 20 March have not heard anything from you. You wrote me 2000 florin in an exchange were sent me. I have not had any notice of it. Your exchange would be cashed in at a merchant in this city. I can not wait any longer. [Page 22] You write that you are no longer together and that you are in Chur now. That it peeved you that I failed to recognize you, for which you are yourself to blame. For, when I decided to emigrate, you told the people I would now blindly stray around in the world like an animal. When have I asked for advice and deed? I believe you have believed more than is true from other people than what is real. Not that I want to boast, but do not think that you know it all. But that is done and over with. At your request I have questioned Anton Grass in regard to the dried hides. He does not know the price himself but will find out and write you. Will it happen? He was very sick, but is up and about again although weak. He deranged his health with the hard work. Peter recently wrote from California. He was always well and is not yet willing to return this year. The cattle have not yet been sold. He is dealing in wood with two Zurich men, at which they are making money. In the Spring he means to sell his cattle. A good cow costs 110 to 120 dollars, a good pair of oxen 190 to 200 dollars. It was a very hard winter. Sylvester Krattli are herding his cattle, with another. Cousin Georg is in a dairy farm for $60 and board a month. Samuel Kupferschmied and Christ Krattli are in the mines. Brother Hans returned late last year. He made quite a bit of money. In Vaz hardly anyone would have made as much in this time. He was also very sick on the journey to here, that I would not have known him, his appearance changed so. Joh. Sutter has returned again, after enduring a hard journey. In mid-December they left San Francisco by steamship. [Page 23] On the second night they ran full speed onto a rock shelf. The ship began to sink. All hurried to the forward deck, some 600 persons. Sutter Joh. took off his clothes, put on the life vest and trusted to the waves. Luckily the ship sank only up to the deck, so that all were saved. On a rock shelf with hardly room to stand, they spent 7 days. Finally they ran out of food. Now he is buying again with two new ones, and Hans and I will also go. Peter, from over there, is to come to meet is 600 miles and bring provisions. We should meet end of July. Land and cattle are noticeably higher in price. Joh. L. Krattli Margaretha in Sask is married. With Perler. And Heiden's Betti also, 2 weeks ago, to an Irishman who knows no word of German. She is supposed to be pregnant. Old Betta is very sad and Daniel is preparing to journey to California. The second oldest daughter of Lauba-Gretha will soon marry. And the aged Zinsli died 2 days ago, was bedridden all winter. Now I must prepare to travel, saddle my horse, and ride to Sutter and post letters in the city, for tomorrow we start. I do not know when I will write again. I have also promised to write Base, which is not possible now. -- Greetings to Joh. Morell and Flor. Plattner. Farewell, your brother Christ. Krattli Letter No. 10 Hermann, 17 May 1849 Dear friend Georg, Today is Ascension day, and it is hard to write but it relates to a reply to your fondly awaited letter, which Bataglia brought me. 8 days ago we arrived here, I and Rudolf Schnorf and father, establish residence here in the circle of our friends and relatives. In the period of our absence, Hermann has developed very much, and particularly the vicinity. That has attracted me the most. We were in Hermann last Sunday with both Sutter, A. Grass to visit Poschel, the first vintner in the area. 12 bottles of last year's best quality were exterminated, undoubtedly the best in my lifetime. After this pleasure [Page 24] we sang in community, the well known song "Wo Kraft und Muth" for which Poschel treated us with 2 more bottles of the best. Today we were visited by your two brothers Peter and Hans, my mother and brother in law, and Jehli with his two young daughters. As well as we could in our junior household, we prepared a dinner. We have also visited all friends in Busch(woods?) and were hospitably received. To mine, and yours great pleasure, we found all well and in easy circumstances. I hardly have any more news except that friend Sutter has a son and Christine Grass is married to Conrad Nageli. Your brother Hans is very well satisfied here, he no longer wishes to return to Europe. He told me frankly, he would like to have his brothers and sisters here. That is also my fondest wish and you certainly would not regret it! I designate you now the power of attorney to serve my affairs in Vaz. Sell my belongings as soon as possible and send me the money. I am very much in need of it, for a bakery I want to build with Rudolf. Size 42 by 32, two stories high. Without our carpenter work, it will cost $2000. We bought the lot from Reinhard for $200, on the corner of Markland and Third Street. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Viniculture is greatly increased. You would be surprised at the Hermann vicinity, where 2 years ago was wilderness and rock piles, are now the loveliest grape plantings. Poschel produced $2000 of wine last year, and this year a third more if nothing adverse happens. I myself have counted 250 grape clusters on a 4 year old stock. It does not matter to me if Ama Lutz doesn't believe it. Yesterday I got 22 bottles wine from Poschel to send 18 to New Orleans and 2 to First Creek for our aged Zinsli. The first to Caspar Strebi (Glarner). [Page 25] With this one we will probably do business. Poschel also extends me credit as much as I need. A religious quote will illustrate. -- "Schulden und Gottes Wort bleibt ewig!" (Debt and God's Word are eternal!) I am happy that my letters of last summer arrived correctly, particularly the one to Haldenstein, from whom I expect no reply. I would have liked to read the special delivery letter ( and also added by bit of advice.) Wherein she submits to the Pilot of our Destiny in the matter for herself. She should rather submit faith in destiny and request her Pilot of Destiny to send her to the New World. There a thirsty soul would accept her. According to Lauba Gretha's letter from her daughter, my dear Nina threw herself in Lenze's arms, and since then Samuel has crossed his arms like Napoleon after the battle of Leipzig. Friendliest greetings to you, your brothers and sisters, my relatives in Haldenstein, particularly Nina and Menga as well as sister in law and other friends in Vaz. Your Sam. Allemann Dear Brother Your letter of 4 February arrived 12 May in bad condition. In torn and open condition. It will be better, that you entrust letters to the Post in future. Your arrangements there do not suit me, and is inexcusable that it took so long to reply to my letter is unpardonable. To write a letter one takes time. How detailed that is for me, and also for you, I will not itemize. Battaglia has never visited me and consequently also never saw your land. He bought 80 acres from Jakob Men. 2 miles from Danuser. You request $400, but the land at First Creek has not increased that much. For Armstand it increases the difficulty to sell the matter. I have neither deed or credit in hand and you know how it is with the title. To make an exchange with you on your terms, I can not. Give me the land and the money that you have here plus the implements (without the tannery installation and the smithy instruments) clothing on the house and yard, barn, tree and kitchen garden, furniture. I await your reply soon. your brother Peter. Letter No. 8 [Page 26] Hermann, 10 August 1851 Dear Georg. In your letter to Peter, which he received 27 July, you say you have not received my letter of last winter. I certified the receipt of $21.14 in the name of S. Allemann to you, and remarked that his mother in law Margaretha Alleman's exact accounting as well as his, requesting money still coming due. I ask that please, you do this as soon as possible and send the money to me. We pay 10% interest here, which Margaretha will not want to give. We have two letters from Allemann of California. He is well, and is said to be fat, also brother Hans. Who has written once. The gold mining in California is going well but not as easy as 2 years ago. The labor that was unhappy at $15 daily wage are now grateful with $4 and $5. In the mines the best has been taken and are not producing more. It is still possible to make $1000 a year, for the outlay is not much higher than here. The distiller Straub, a brewer here in your time, came back with Martens this summer. Straub made significant money. Martens less. I believe when the Straub's sell their distillery and other business, they can return to California. Hermann is growing despite present hard times. The rocky areas have been transformed into vineyards. I had 125 gallons, 1850 140 gallons. Other fruits turned out very good, but in Europe they have no appetite. Everything is dirt cheap. Wheat is 50, barley is 40, corn and potatoes, oats are 20, Rye is 30 to 35 cents. Wine is not sold for less than $1 to $1.25. Last year I purchased 80 acres land, 40 secondhand, for $450. I have 40 acres in cultivation and 2 2/3 acres in vineyard. Maybe too much, the half of it pot even. (flat) I presently butcher in company with Heinrich Gut, who was with you in Vaz last year. He came here last November and since then we operate a butcher shop in Hermann. [Page 27] We have taken a small house and a slaughterhouse in Zins. We need much meat and have a large but poor business. We handle 2000 pounds beef a week, 2 to 350 pounds pork, plus mutton and veal at 3-1/2, 4, and 5 cents. Our purchase varies but never more than 3 cents. If we buy by weight, the tallow and hide are not counted, also not in cheating. If credit and wages were not so expensive, some profit would be possible. I employ 2 laborers at $96 and $48 yearly wages. To my regret I must share with you that Michel Heid and Nic. Krattli died 4 weeks ago from high fevers. The whole family Heid was sick at that time, now slowly recovering. I myself had 14 days fever, with six of us, all presently up and about except for mother in law and hired hand. The fever held sway everywhere after summer. Maria Krattli married the young Oelschlager, and my cousin J. Sutter with the widow Senn. He is my nearest neighbor and in possession of a large farm and quite a herd cattle, a grown son, and 2 neat girls. He struck it good. You can tell his brother Samuel that this is an entirely different fellow and knows how to help himself. For this, my cousin, rides on the burden instead of the burden riding on him. He has it as he wants it. Grass also married, and now has a 14 day old son. I have a son of 8 days, a sturdy fellow. Peters' Deti is with us, and with my Babali attends Frauenthal school. Two years ago we built a school, to hold school 9 months, with a competent teacher. Several years ago we sold our school land, which brings $100 interest, $58.58 the city gives us annually, and the rest divided on the children. --- Dear old friend, are you still single, and do you still think never to come to America? Fare well, greet your sisters and brothers for me, my relatives at Berg, in Haldenstein. Write me soon. I must close my head is desert, and I am really still very weak. My servant is deadly sick and no one can help. Your Joh. Sutter Show the receipt certificate from teacher Daniel, so he and the Panz are certain where the money is. Letter No. 7 [Page 28] Hermann, 28 May 1850 Dear friend Georg, Apparently, you should have received the letter that S. Allemann sent by way of Heinrich Gut and learned that he and brother Hans left for Goldland, California. There, hundreds of men inside the period of a year have gained riches of $100,000 or more. S. Allemann is in company with Marten and Schenker with horse and wagon, your brother with Michel Philipp and a Zuricher, Schop with wagon and oxen. S.A. gave me legal power of attorney to manage his business and receive outstanding accounts and pay his debts. What he bought here is not so lightly sold again. I must plead that you call in his possessions in Vaz as soon as possible if not already done so. The gold you can exchange or send to me by Hans Gut if he is in your vicinity. It is a matter of course that Allemann receive exact accounting about his money and properties. And what to deal with in its division during his absence is known. Last week Peter received an exchange and immediately sent this to New York to redeem. His daughter Menga broke her left thigh 3 weeks ago. And his family expects an increase I have nothing of this nature to announce.{Page 13} He will write you soon. I see from your letter that L.Gr. (Lauba Grethe) is fonder of writing than viniculture. I believe that I and Peter harvest as much wine as Lauba Grethe made last year and next year. Viniculture is on the increase. Rumel received first prize of $100 for his model planting. This is very valuable for Hermann. The stony hills of Hermann are now mostly planted to [Page 29] grapes. U. Grass, Mat. Just and I took a child from J. Wehrli on Ferka which he had abused. He has to pay $50 each substitute. He was sued by Justice of the Peace and now Wehrli, instead of a $150 fine, will be sold in a half year. Our friends are all well and talk about you at every meeting, and consider it impossible that you remain in Vaz. I purchased 80 acres adjoining land, 40 for $50, 40 for $450. There is nothing on the first, and little on the second. Presently everything is dear here. Especially the oxen. Three years ago a pair were $30, now are $60. I sold 2 pair to California for $108, and the Star for $90. The first ones I bought a day earlier for $96. Late last year I bought out Teis for $500. Then I had auction of the cattle and equipment I got with the farm, which I redeemed for $220 on one years credit. The farm, to which I added 40 acres Government land, was sold for $700 on 5 years credit at 6%. Keep these actions to yourself, for if it becomes public knowledge, people will think I want to become rich. Which is certainly not the case. As soon as I get information from California I will share it with you. Advise agreement with my request soon as possible, and write soon and much. Greet your brothers and sisters for me, wife, and children you may have. Joh. Sutter. Last year the Catholics built a big, big church in Hermann. I believe it will soon be sold to pay the labor. The Masons also will soon build a house, to accommodate the Lodge. They have 35 members now. Allemann and I belong to it. Now make a T....... or a Lu...... out of me. But keep it to yourself, that I may not be totally damned. SUPPLEMENT [Page 30] Assembly of the family Family Peter Menga /Margar, Gg, Menga Elisabeth JohJac 1846 +64 +87 +94 +1930 +86 Roark Christ Victoria +22 Oehi: Joh Luzi Christina children in Georg) Isabella Los Angeles Maria children Walter Anna) Georg in 1844 to U.S. travel with Sam Allem. 48 returned in Poughkeepsie as tanner -Peter 1846 1845 to Hermann -Hans 1846 184_ to Switzerland -Christ 1853 Hans 1846 to California, gold fever Georg v.G. 1844 [Page 31] Persons referred to in the letters 1. Cousin Georg and family Sam. Allemann, S. Capell 2. Bisch. Henni, Mart. Krattli single, Lampert, Riederer Nic. Krattli, Grass, Lucas Pilat 3. Joh. Krattli, Sutter Jak, Grass, Joos Maria, Allemann D. Sutter Joh, Gesner Gg. Hug Dan. ssingle, Muller, Spading, Spiess Gartmann Dr. Steiger, Zeller Kasper, Philipp Urs, Philipp Jac, Philipp Margr, Philipp Anna, Philipp Michel, Philipp Jakob J, Boesch, Bauer, Micheli J. Micheli-Dorothea-Gesner 4. Hug, Plaisch, Dolf, Wieland, Veraguth, Stocker 5. Danuser, Mathis, Krattli Silv, Krattli Christ. Krattli Gg. Grass A. 6. Veraguth 7. Heid Betti, Heid Daniel 8. Jehli, Nageli Conr. Grass Chr. 9. Heid Michel, Sutter Joh (senn) Krattli Nic. Krattli Margr- -Oelschlager, Gut Heinr, Sutter Sam. (Mastr.) 10. Just Math. Wehrli J. Schoch, Grass L. Jekli -------------------- Continuing in the same volume again a register of the persons named, and 2, Register of American Presidents since Washington, Nr. 1 until Roosevelt, Nr. 31 Copy produced by Kaspar Joos-Wey 20 February 1975 Translated by Herman Radloff of the St. Louis Genealogical Society January 1994