My Life As A Soldier
by Conrad Kissler
(originally printed in the Die Welt Post)
German articles submitted by Martha Schafer
Translated by Marie (Trupp) Krieger -- June 1994
Reprinted in the Frank / Brunnental Village Newsletter 1994/95 (Editor: Sherrie Stahl)
Hillrose, Colorado -- February 1, 1932 --
As a reader of this newspaper, I would like to tell my friends a few experiences of my life while a soldier. I came from Frank, in the Volga-Republic, where I was born on May 4, 1880. my father was known as Kasper's Jacob and I was known as "Johann Georg" at home, but my name is Conrad Jacob Kissler.
In October 1901, an unwished notice arrived in the Frank - Volost, that the casting of lots for military service for the year 1902 would be in Kabirnir, a Russian Wolost, located 18 werst from Frank. All men who had passed their 21st year should report there, on October 10th. In earlier years, the Germans along with the Russians, drew lots; but in this year, the Russians didn't want to do it, because many young German people, who should wear the Tsar's dress, had been allowed to leave to a foreign country. Earlier, it often happened that a German youth, on account of the lot, drew a high number, releasing him from service, and a Russian had to replace him; or a Russian had to fill the gap left by one who left the area. On that account, a dispute ensued.
On account of that, there was to be no more releasing anyone. The Germans had to furnish 1000 men -- even if they had to draw from the second classification. This was difficult for the Germans. The releases were divided into 3 classifications. In the first classification were families with only one son; second classification - 2 sons, the oldest of these two was put in the 2nd classification, while the younger one was landed in the 3rd classification. All those in the 3rd classification were called first into the service. We Germans were 210 men from 3 villages - Frank, Kolb, and Walter as well as Franker Chutor and Walter Chutor. After our names were called, we all had to go to the government office where a job was offered and we stood side by side like cigarettes; each had to draw a number and hand it to an officer sitting at a table. The officer unrolled the paper and called the number in a very loud voice. (mine was 175) which was written down by a writer (secretary?). After the drawing, they continued with a doctor's examination where one was weighed and checked; and if you had a good bill of health and belonged to the 3rd classification, then came the important word from the principal officer -- the word was "accepted", one also belonged to the service. All had to then follow the order and in 3 weeks had to report to the Army leader in the West Town. We drove home again where we were met with tears. Here one discovered a son had to leave --another place, the father -- and the weeping and sobbing was heard everywhere.
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Hillrose, Colorado -- March 17th, 1932 --
There were 27 men who were released. I can't remember all of their names but I'll name a few: Heinrich Benzel, Conrad Wagner, John Klein, and Johannes Rothe. Within the two or three weeks we still had to await orders, our things were put in order and packed. The future soldiers savored the time as "free time" away from work, they were invited by friends for one more "good" mealtime -- that was one way the friends could show their love. Perhaps it was the last time that they could be together. That's how time passed. Pastor Roos announced that on November 14th a public service in the prayer house would be held for the soldiers. We all attended and heard a very good sermon; then we sang the song from the Volga Songbook #563: "Keep Us Lord", and #490: "In All My Deeds, I'll Let You Redeemer, Counsel". Pastor Roos spoke about the following words: "Be subject to the authorities".-----Then he gave us his blessings, with the wish that we would all return to our homes again in good health. Many of the church members said, "It is being buried alive"....and wept loudly.
The 16th of November was the day of Farewell. At nine o'clock in the morning began the train of mourning, the wives with one or two children hung onto their men folks (soldiers), the mothers unto their sons. Sisters, brothers, friends, comrades, some also their sweethearts who promised, "I'll remain single until you return". There was no end to the weeping. I, myself, was married to Kath. Elis. Heimbichner and had a daughter Pauline. As we had then gone half a mile from the village, a halt was made and the last kiss had to depart us from our loved ones. After a 2 hour drive, we were in Walter; there we experienced the same picture, then Russians, and our train became longer all the time. After 1 1/2 days, we reached Alkarsk. One saw soldiers everywhere. We announced ourselves to our Superiors and they sent us with some less Superiors to the kitchen so that we would know immediately where our new mother would be cooking the food. There lay loaves of bread which weighed 20 pounds. After two days divisions occurred, via calling of names into groups of 20 men--16 Russians and 4 Germans, Georg Kanzler from Kolb, Jacob Gies of Walter Chutor, Jacob Streck and I from Frank. They told us we had to go to Manchuria and to the town of Port Arthur. The name of this town was unbeknown to all of us. After asking questions from this or that one, we learned that it was very, very far in the east and was in China. We hadn't gotten over our first hurt yet, here was a new one facing us. Our orders were to pack our small belongings, go to the station and board the prepared train. It was not a passenger train, but a boxcar (freight wagon) with 4 small windows and double beds made of boards nailed together.
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Hillrose, Colorado -- March 19th, 1932 --
Everything was missing in the wagons---there was no drinking water---we had to take a kettle with us. Our illumination came from a tallow candle and here we were, 36 men stuck together. The Russians are usually happy people especially when they have "Firewater". There are always 2 or 3 men among them who can play the accordion. The rest begin the singing and so the train moves hurriedly over hill and vale past many Russian villages. After 2 days we reached Charkow, a town where we were to remain 2 months. After we had tied our knapsacks to our backs, we marched through the town to our new quarters. Then we were filed into 122 Tambavski Pechot. Polk, I came into File 7 and my German comrades in 9 to 10. We were examined and received uniforms. The next morning floors were washed, windows done, stove and boots polished, copper wear polished and dishes cleaned, etc. Then we were inspected --- whether our clothes were in their proper order and the bed was made properly. After all that, breakfast was served -- a piece of black bread and tea. Then at 11:00 AM we had to march. Each one of us received 16 to 18 Solotnik meat and at 12 noon, cabbage soup with Kascha. We could rest until 2:00 PM and then had to march again until 5:00 PM---then our supper of millet soup and by 9:00 PM, everyone had gone to bed. The bread had so much strength, we received heartburn from it.
On January 28th, my oldest brother Jacob, left home to visit me for 2 days. During this time, I was called to Rottnoi (government office) because I was able to write the Russian language very well, and I was exempt from washing floors. Shortly before our trip to Port Arthur, all of us were issued new uniforms. We didn't see much of Charkow--it rained or snowed almost all the time, and our boots were dirty. On January 31st we were finished with travels. The officers wished us look during our farewells; and told us within 40 to 45 days, we would be sailing (swimming) on the ocean. The train station in Charkov is quite nice. The train was ready and after a signal, it began to move and took us over wonderful places until we reached Odessa on the Black Sea on February 3rd. We marched to our meeting place---a barracks where possibly hundreds of young soldiers were gathered waiting for us who were all to go to Port Arthur.
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Hillrose, Colorado -- March 21st, 1932 --
We did not have to remain without wages. No, every 2 months was payday. Altogether, each one received 45 kopeks for the full sum for 61 work days, about 21 1/2 cents in USA money. Like all soldiers in the whole world, we enjoyed smoking our cigarettes. With this money we had to purchase tobacco, paper, boot blacking, soap, thread, postage stamps, etc. With our wages of 45 kopecks, we naturally couldn't get rich. "Schto bolsche nado". We stayed in Odessa until Feb 10, 1902 because not all of the soldiers had come together yet. We were allowed, with leadership, to go around town. Traffic, buildings, streets, lights---yes, everything overshadowed the town, Charkow. The seaport of Odessa handles much commerce sent all over the world. Most of the goods are forwarded via ship transport. The days passed by quickly. After another thorough checkup, in order to be sure that no ill person would be on the trip, we were all commanded to the ship that lay in the harbor on February 10, 1902. The large steam boat "Woronesch" lowered its bridges so we were able to board it. On the deck we were assigned to our cabins by the seamen. We found everything in good order, die "Trumane" as the Russian says, have iron beds. The number of our German comrades has grown to 25 since March. There were KAISER from Old Balzer, STIER from Schilling, WORSTER from Old Balzer, JACOBI from Doenhof and others among them. Most of us had never seen a ship or the ocean. For that reason, everything seemed wonderfully strange and accepted. The ship's machines were started, the anchor rolled up and on the shore stood thousands who shouted "Farewell", and the ship slowly settles itself after a last signal sending a shock through one's body, and the ship moves. The people on the shore wave cloths and with a yell, we leave the harbor of Odessa and drive into the "Black Sea". With the heavenly weather, it was a wonderful sight and the ship glides slowly over the water to Constantinople. The sun sank deeper, the evening bell rings and each of the 10 men receive a dish, one of them sent to the kitchen and the others receive the same. As the chairs and tables were set up, we all went to the deck.
Our first meal consisted of noodles, oh, oh, was that a treat. With such beautiful weather, such a nice ship and such good food, one can sing: "Matuschke bo Volga". We did everything to stuff our middles (stomachs). After the meal we remained for a time on the deck in order to observe how the ship split the water with its bow. Deep quietness and dark night enveloped us. We lie down for our night's rest. But about 11:00 PM, the ocean waves move a great deal and become stronger. Here and there a soldier rises because the air was getting colder on the deck. The herds would rather remain in their cabins rather than be carried on deck. The weather blew in earnest---the storm became scary. In the morning, the sailors called the herd to remove the pliable pastry and clean up the mess. When the call came for breakfast, no one wanted to eat anything. The swells rose to the size of a house over the deck, as though they wanted to destroy the ship. We had to put up with this weather for 3 days and many thought it was the end of his service. Then as time goes on, things get quieter, and we sail along. One can live again and many dishes return to the kitchen. Laughter and talk about the storm had its variations. Later, as I check through letters, I learn that my wife had presented me today, February 15th, a son baptized with the name Karl.
We are coming nearer the mountains and Dardanelles. At the beginning one sees cannons on the mountains, as though they want to greet us with a "Good Morning". We sail through the Dardanelles, which are bordered by mountains on both sides, and see before us the main state of Turkey, Constantinople -- they are like a bird spreading two wings. No one was allowed to disembark as the ship halts. The Turks supply our ship with the necessary coal and come on small boats to bring tobacco, figs, wine, etc. to offer for sale. With a stroke, we lower a small basket with the money and then we receive the good they showed us. Here one sees wonderful trees and shrubs. The town has many towers which are seen by a half moon. The Turks are large people of a strong nature. The women wear scarves over their faces (not now anymore). After reloading, we leave the harbor shortly before midnight. Our ship hurries through the Dardanelles to the middle sea. Nice weather takes us to Smyrna and on the right side near Crete. Days and nights go by -- here and there we see flying birds and observe other things which move about in the ocean. To the left, the town of Cypress -- to the right, Port Said, Alexandria and Cairo.
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Hillrose, Colorado -- April 14th, 1932 to May 12th, 1932 --
The Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea are linked by a canal into which we are entering. It is the Suez Canal -- this linkage shortens the traffic to the east. The canal stretches itself through a large sand area and is completely lined with cement, wide enough for ferry boats to pass by. The trip is slow and we enter the Red Sea--to the left lies Arabia and to the right Africa. In nice weather, the sun is very hot, so that canvas is stretched across the deck under which drops of water fall. They five us lightweight white uniforms. We pass the states of Mecca and Aden and find ourselves in the Arabian Sea--to the right the Indian Ocean which gives us large swells. In the Suez Canal, we pass Mt. Sinai. Suddenly the fire bell rings --it is a false alarm to warn us to be careful with smoking. We are allowed to smoke on the deck. After that, the island of Ceylon, on which the town of Columbo is situated. We pass the border of the Bay of Bengal and steer in the large waterway of Malacca--to the right lies the island of Sumatra, to the left Malay States, where we stop at the town of Singapore, because our stock was reaching an end. Again came the orders: "No soldier is to leave the ship". The residents of the town are of many nationalities....Bengalens, Arabic's, and God only knows of the others. Many have large white rings in their noses and ears and have a very nice speech. They swim and dive like fish. Since it is very warm here, the people walk around with almost no clothes.
After we had loaded all the necessary items, the steam boat continues on its way again, in the evening; and we arrive in the South China Sea. To the right is the island of Borneo and then past the Philippine Islands---always closer to big China. To the left lies Hong Kong, then we see Foochow, and pass the island of Formosa. Then it goes in the East China Sea and we reach Ningpo [China], Soochow [China]. To the right side expands the Pacific Ocean and before us lies Japan. We enter the Yellow Sea and to the left reach the town Weihai [China]. Before us lies the mountains of Port Arthur (Riojun or Ryojun). The bay is only 300 feet wide and enclosed by 2 large mountain chains, where there is only just enough room for the large steam ship to turn and anchor. We stopped at Port Arthur and set foot on our new home. We thank God after 40 days that we finally have soil for our feet to stir (to move about on). With heavy hearts we went into our small filthy , old Chinese town. We four Germans, KANZLER, GIES, STRECK, and I were led into Port Arthurskoi Drebostnoi, Pechonoi Polk, where we were put in the Red squadron--GIES in the 1st, I in the 3rd, KANZLER and STRECK in the 7th and 8th. Now to finish what we had omitted on the ocean trip....we met soldiers who began service in Russia in 1897 who were transported to China in 1900; and who at that time, had to be suppressed for the unrest by their superiors and those soldiers that had served for 6 years already.
Our sovereign (chief) was General Stoessel, a large powerful man of about 250 to 270 lbs. in weight. Gradually we became used to the situation. The Tzar was first in Port Arthur in the year 1900 to 1901. During his time, 5 or 6 countries were at war with China. At that time, one found few European buildings. A Russian-Chinese bank, and 2 churches (one still in the building process), the barracks, and the officer's quarters---that was all. The quarters of the Chinese (Chinese quarters) were roofed with tile. In the middle of town stood a hill that divided the town into 2 parts---the old and the new town. We did not see a train; the residents were Japanese, Koreans, Jews and Russians. This mixture required good discipline and General Stoessel was the man for that. The town was surrounded by high mountains (hills); and since the soil was of the rocky type, not much farming could be done. Some corn, sugar cane, Tschumisa (?), a certain kind of millet -- that's all. Very few machines were there. The wagons had 2 wheels, made of boards nailed together and rounded on which over the axle, set a box. The roads were very bad. The thought came to me, if that should be the place where on considered ridicule at home and said: "Are you from (Jerico--far away) where pepper grows?" In the fall of 1902, the work on the first train was finished and slowly the train snaked through the hills in our town. Everyone rushed to the station to greet the arrival of the guest. The Chinese came with their wives in complete dress with pigtail and tassels on the back of the head almost reaching to the feet; the wives with short haircuts, reddened lips and cheeks, very small feet which had been bound since childhood so they wouldn't grow big in order to cripple their price (arrogance or haughtiness).
The end of the year 1903, as my service was about concluded, I was called to the assistant officer. My friend H. Benzel, who at the time, was doing his service in Manchuria, wrote to me, saying I should request my leave so that the two of us could travel together on our way home. We received a 6 month leave; and since the trip is so far, we expected a reduction in the price of the tickets. As our traveling papers were finished, we already were writing home----but on January 27, 1904 the Russian-Japanese War began. Our food in Port Arthur was good--we received free sugar and tea. Each soldier was given a pound of meat each day, 3 lbs. of bread, good cabbage soup, pureed rice or Gretchicha. Also our wages during the year were raised from 45 Kopecks (1 kopeck = 1/100 ruble) to 87.5 kopecks.
I would like to mention that in the summer of 1903, word trickled in that the highest commander of all the armies and the naval fleet of the Russian Empire, was to appear at our inspection. It was General Kuropatkin, who stepped off the train to inspect the many thousands of soldiers. He demanded a 3 day inspection. We accepted the honor as good luck that he came to us, while the same officers shook when he spoke to them. His chest was adorned with two rows of medals and crosses. Gold and silver embellished his uniform.
We felt that between the 23rd and 27th of January [1904], that all Japanese had vanished in our town---their businesses locked up, but no one thought anything bad about that. Then at 11 o'clock on January 29th came the Japanese squadron and fired on the Russian squadron which had just received its nights' supplies outside of the harbor. A large battleship was taken out of action so that it was disabled for a long time. Suddenly, a noise in our night's quarters---the trumpet sounded and the beat on a drum. "Trewoge!" Every soldier sprang to his feet and got ready for his departure. The fighting on the water became more intense. Shells fell on the town. The cannons reciprocated with fire from the mountains, and every company took its previous position.
We were 6 to 7 miles away from the sea and were able to observe the hills with the ships in the nighttime skirmish, but we had no idea what it all meant. Toward morning the news was conveyed to us that we were at war with Japan and that the battle in the night, without a previous announcement declaring war, brought about much damage. Nearly everyday the Japanese squadron sought us and hurled large 12 inch wide shells over the mountains into the town, with the intention to disable our ships. With that, the Japanese hoped to have freedom of the seas in the Orient, in its hands. Japan sought to seal (enclose) our squadron in the harbor and utilize all ships, which through the sinking of our fleet, as it left the harbor, would prevent it from getting away (or leaving the harbor). As these old boxes of shells came nearer to us, the cannons on the mountains shot them to pieces. During that time, the Japanese Army came via the river Yalu on land, and prepared themselves to march to Port Arthur. Our ship caused the small Japanese more headaches in spite of the fact that he had covered us in the water. On March 31st (1904), Admiral Makarov wanted to sail into the sea with his armored vessel, and the ship hit a mine, 2 miles from the harbor, and was torn into 2 pieces. Within 2 minutes the highest commander landed in the ocean, but Admiral Makarov along with his 38 officers and 628 soldiers with their flagship "Petrobavlovsk" had disappeared. That same day the large armored vessel "Pobeda" was badly damaged on its right side. On it were 28 officers, 754 sailors and 63 large and more smaller cannons and 3 smokestacks. That was a big loss.
Our town was surrounded by the sea on 3 sides. For that reason, the Japanese could observe us quite well; and it was not easily possible to send our ships in and out. For that reason, the Japanese land Army was able to close up the way and marched to Port Arthur. The 1st Division, or 4 Polk (?) of our soldiers, approached them and caused their delay. They had to fight for every hill they came to. As the Japanese reached our railway, on April 22nd, we were cut off from the entire world. It took about 2 1/2 months until they could see the first mountain of Port Arthur. On this mountain, "Upilasi" and the surrounding green mountains, much fighting took place. In front of the town, the Japanese won a foot today---but then tomorrow they had to turn back.
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Hillrose, Colorado -- May 26th, 1932 --
The devil cut off the way from Russia. We had to sit now -- without help from our native land. Altogether all of us were about 45,000 men, distributed for a 20-30 mile "front" around the town, during the festival time. The Japanese had an army of 100,000 men to stand against us; that was the opinion of General Stoessels. So it came about that first, at the end of July, he was able to send shells from the last mountains in the town. For five months the killing was on the last side, hand to hand fighting, sometimes the Japanese came so close that bayonets were put into use. Since the Japanese General Noge had taken over the command, the violence began. As soon as the front line of soldiers had fallen, large troops came from behind who, within a short time, were among the fallen. Days passed, weeks where there was always worse slaughter from the shells. Overall, blood covered blood---it was bloody everywhere. The people lay like the sheaves on the field, without arms--without legs--with many wounds. Some lay on the ground with no common ties. Some cried to the Heavens, "Oh, dear God, help us and take us to your Heavenly Home because we are forever poor." One could see that the enemy's aim on the Forts number 2 and number 3, were the mountains Doguschan, Sequschan and Kumirin, in order to break through. Our supplies and also our soldiers became less and fewer. It happened that there was no more talk about exchanges. Through the weak nourishment and the fact that we didn't have any rest, the illness "zinger" took over---it is practically a slow death. Added to that was not enough food and starvation set in, so we had to butcher horses -- for there was very little bread and all of us had to languish.
Since the enemy couldn't get closer, the festive season was good and strong. He dug into the ground and lay mines. On one quiet morning, there was a break, quite suddenly. A cloud rose from the Fort--very dark and like a lightning flash. But that wasn't the only thing. Oh God, it looked so terrible. Here lay arms and there lay legs and many were taking their last breath. All around us was a doleful outcry, the wounds were so painful. Oh, dear God, send angels and take the sad (poor) hearts with you. This killing happened in the summer time. It was a huge lamentation to which the weather was hot. How many parents grieved on account of such a struggle and conflict that their children were separated on steep mountains by their beds and graves. How many widows with orphans are without help and comfort...no one to help them now, help them, oh dear God. On December 2nd, our General Major Kondratenko, with 8 officers in Fort number 2, was killed by a Japanese shell. He was a supporter and helper for General Stoessel. This loss left a big gap in our file. The fallen were mourned by all of us. Our numbers became smaller everyday so that in December our Army totaled about 10,000 men. The enemy always came closer, our strength became always weaker. From the first day we waited for help, but it was useless. After eleven hard months, we were forced to give up our town----Port Arthur.
After the enemy's hostility ceased, both sides brought a delegation together and made peace. General Stoessel with his staff, was willing to leave the town in order to avoid further bloodshed or losses. Even though it was a difficult thing to do, especially after 11 months of hard fighting, it was our duty to avoid any further deaths---this was hard for us to picture. Three days after handing over the town, we had to leave it. Our trip was done on foot to the next Japanese railroad station. We were not led over the huge battlefield. We marched practically the entire night. In the morning, December 25th, also Christmas, at 3 o'clock we stopped. We were dead tired, hungry and cold. When leaving the town, we were advised that no soldier was to carry more than 15-20 lbs. of goods. The Japanese gave each one of us 2 small packets of "Crackers" and salmon in a tiny tin box. After a long wait, a train finally arrived which was made of iron coal-wagons put together. We had to get into the train---as many as a wagon could hold, and hurried to the town of Dalin [Dairen??]. We reached it in the evening and were led into a large building which was our shelter. O, just think, how well a person rests after such a trip especially when on beside the other has to sleep on chairs without bedding. The next morning, during the forenoon, our Japanese ship arrived and then aboard the ship we went to japan, as prisoners of war. Here, I must mention, that we four Germans, KANZLER, GIES, STRECK, and I were still alive, like we came together from home. On the ship, we each received a ticket so we could get food from the kitchen for the trip---one might say one could put into a cigar box. After a three and a half days trip, with nice weather, we arrived in Japan with luck. We had to step into a train right away. In each wagon were two Japanese soldiers with guns serving as guards. Near noon, we arrived in a large town where we, the prisoners, were served a good meal. It appeared as though the workers of the town had prepared for this and looked us over wondering what kind of people came from Port Arthur.
In each railway station, we found friendly people. Many times we were handed tea through the window by the people who had gathered to look at the Russian prisoners. After a two days' trip we came to our camp close to the town of Osarka [Osaka??] called Hammadera. Since no large preparations had been made in advance, we had to settle for quarters under a tent with 22 men. The Japanese brought each one of us a cotton filled mattress and a quilt for our bed. The food was brought in wooden pails to us in the yard. It was supposed to be a soup, but it was thick and wasn't warm anymore. The bread was baked with nice white flour and tasted very good. It all went from the hand into the mouth, but it wasn't enough. One nice day, what do you think each one of us received?-----An orange! On account of that, we felt better. On the 4th of February, we were led to another yard in which there were 50 houses were built of boards, 4 large kitchens, a bakery, 2 baths and wash houses, 1 government office, 2 shops, 4 guard houses and electric lighting. The entire compound that wooden walls on 3 sides---the other side had posts.
In each house were 200 men quartered so that the count in each yard consisted of 10,000 men. Beside our yard were 2 smaller ones with 5000 men in each one---it was considered more of a hospital. Now we were allowed to write letters twice a month to our homes or wherever we wished to write. All letters could not be sealed and without postage and each one of us had to write his name, house number, and prisoner of war number, on the envelope. My number was 6097. Before the Japanese had prepared our meals, but we were told on April 12th, that we would now cook our own food except for the bread. Naturally we didn't want to do that, because we were afraid of the law we had learned in the army---not to assist the enemy in anyway--or make it easier for them. The next morning the guards were at our doors and all of us had to stay in our houses for 21 hours and we were given only bread and water. Finally there came the big Japanese General Kumabe and informed us via an interpreter that of now we had to cook our food as well as do the kitchen work ourselves---if not, then we must pass our time there with water and bread. We asked our officers for permission and they immediately granted it. Without any exchange of words our cooks entered the kitchen. The rest of us paid them 3 kopecks per soldier and 5 kopecks each sub officer per month. On April 17th, was Easter day, but the rabbits forgot to bring us the eggs. We were also able to have a public religious service. The Russians had a Pastor, the Catholics a Priest, and we Germans had a missionary lady from Germany, Miss Elisabetha Huhold. On May 20th, at our place, the earth moved. On May 30th, we saw a large white star in the Heavens. In case one of our soldiers died, we were given a small cemetery which through a gift, we placed a nice iron enclosure around the grave and in the middle erected a monument. To that the Japanese officers added much. Our wages were 1 yen a month in Japanese money -- about 50 cents in the United States. The days and weeks became longer, the conscience asked often, "how long do we have to stay here?" Before our eyes, we always thought of the song, "When the Lord releases the bond and frees the prisoner". The missionary, Miss Huhold, always said to us: "Misery is not greater than the Helper". In our yard, beautiful tall Christmas trees stand, and we pass the time reading and writing under the cool shade of the trees. Newspapers and books were not given to us. We here, were practically an entire company of Germans together. Many of them could still be alive today, so I will give some names: Peter BISHEIMER of Hohler; Heinrich JACOBI of Donhof; Jacob KUNKEL of Kutter; Christian KARL of Alt-Balzer; Salmon HENSCH of Rosenthal; Adam EICHMAN of Schwab; Johannes LUTHER of Huck; Johannes HAHN of Kana; Ignatz GOTTE of Sinnofka; Christian SCHLOTHAUER of Alt-Weimar; Paul VOHLEKS of Langenfeld; Heinrich LAUBACH, of Krasnojar; Johannes RIHL of Borkart; Georg GRASMICK of Balzer; Johannes KNIPPEL of Norka; Johannes GIES of Mohr; Jacob LATHNER of Schumack; Heinrich KAISER of Alt-Balzer; Alex LEHNHARDT of Balzer; Joseph MARTINERSKI & Peter GALINGER of Hildeman; Jacob SCHULMEISTER of Kaminka; Heinrich HUFA of Begekutter; Johannes RITTER of Wittman; Michael MELLENBERG of Duckot; Johann Friederick RUIN and Georg KUHN of Gobel; Thomas ROMETSCH of Konigsthal; Johannes HERBER of Baro; Alex BOCK of Kana; Johannes SCHWAB of Simnofka; Michel EBERLE and Johann LEMKE of Ekaterinoslav; Heinrich SCHARGEN of Palskoi. Dear comrades---if you should see this heart felt greeting from me.
Since we had no winter, but always summer weather and the terrific heat, we were given permission to bathe now and then in the sea (ocean) which was only 100 to 200 feet from where we were. At one time, each one of us received a small chest filled with rice and carrots decorated with green leaves, and also a package of cigarettes for each one of us---25 of them. Our rice was served to us every day in a large pail. We asked, what is the significance of this--that our rice was served so beautifully for us today? The answer was, because the Kaiser of Japan has his birthday today. We said, "Thank you".
In September we were notified that the war was over. On September 28th, an American, Mr. H. Ford and the German missionary, Miss E. Huhold, came to us one evening and showed us movies --30 pictures, but I won't mention all of them: four pictures of the Niagara waterfalls, a Holy mountain in Japan, a 20 story high rise building in New York with 4000 rooms, and old house built by Makomeda about 500 years ago, a large bridge in Italy. The last was American Indians. We spent an enjoyable evening and gave them heartfelt thanks for the Love, that which they had showed us.
On October 20th, all the Germans were assembled together and led from the yard into the next town. Unbeknownst to us, we came into a park where many rich people were gathered and had prepared a very tasty meal for us. Here were egg, coffee cakes, butter, milk, coffee, tea, kuchen (cakes), meat, etc. and each one of us received a picture from Miss Huhold. But here, we thought, is a good deal---allow us to cherish this. Miss Huhold had a large chest full of books and passed them out to us. Bibles, Testaments, etc. This way, the entire day was spent. This was the nicest day ever in the service--many thanks to Miss Huhold and her helpers.
On the 23rd of the evening of December at 6:00 PM we, the Germans, were led again out of the yard. In another yard we found a beautifully decorated Christmas tree with many gifts. Here were three from England, an American, four women and Miss Huhold. They related the story of Jesus Christ's birth and expressed their happiness to be able to celebrate the Christmas Festival with us. At 9:00 PM, each one of us received a beautiful gift. We Germans allowed ourselves to be photographed together and we received this picture in a golden frame this evening from Miss Huhold as a reminder of us Germans as prisoners of war in Japan in the year 1905. On December 23rd at 6:00 AM, we experienced a small earthquake...first we heard a noise as if the wind blew hard, then the shaking of the earth and the windows rattled. The entire jolt went under the earth and sea as quickly as the blink of an eyelid. An entire year passed by until we could leave Japan. A day before Christmas, the happy news arrived that 10 houses were to get ready to return home from number 1 to 10. I was in house number 7. The next morning our names were read. While one of our soldiers played "crazy", the door opened and we walked out. Our legs barely touched the ground in great joy. The weight which depressed us always, was lifted and we were persons again who participated in the entire world. Our big worries were over. Some of our brothers departed this life and had to remain in Japan.
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Hillrose, Colorado -- June 9th, 1932 --
Now that we have spent a year as prisoners, I have to say, that we were treated quite well by the Japanese. Our foreign overseer (supervisor) was a Frenchman whose name was "Charman". Above all, as much as we know, we were between 70,000 to 80,000 prisoners. My three comrades from home (KANZLER, GIES and STRECK) were in the town "Nakoja" [Nagoya?, Japan].
(I must return to my thoughts on Port Arthur....On August 2, 1904, we received a telegram from a small ship in town from Czar Nikolaus, that a son was born on July 31st to Czarina Alexsandra Feodorowna. He was to be the next one to the throne and was baptized Alessi "Nikol". With this news, he was also thinking of us in Port Arthur. For our difficult service, he would give us a year for every month we serve from May 1st to the end of the siege.)
Now back to Japan. After our release at 6:00 o'clock, the morning of December 25th, we were led to the next railroad station and placed in quite nice passenger cars; then we headed for the town Yokkaichi [Japan]. On this trip we could feel like being on the streets. "Nikasha", a second class small wagon coach was pulled by a Japanese. One could, for very little money, make a trip through the town. The coolies (workers) have very few clothes on their bodies and soles with a band between the two big toes, which holds it to the feet. Each one has a large straw hat on his head. The women wear about the same kinds of shoes. With the clothes and the hair on their heads, they are very proud. The hair is arranged very nice on the heads and since all of them have black hair, it appears as if the use of oil keeps it shiny. They carry the small children on their backs for whom they have made a sack. Their farm work is cultivation of rice, onions, carrots and of that type. Here very little fruit is raised. Many of the houses have paper windows. The stores or booths present a very pretty picture with their inscriptions (signs) and the innumerable paper lanterns and banners. In the harbor we boarded the big Russian ship, "Vladimir". Now that we were on board, we left the town and could say "Kairu"--nadj house--and yell to the Japanese "Samara"---good-bye. On Christmas Day and on December 26th, the weather was beautiful. Now that we had to leave Yokohama [Japan] to the Pacific Ocean on the Japanese Sea, we arrived at Makodate [Nakhodka, Russia?], to Vladivostok [Russia]. On the 27th, 28th and 29th, we had a huge storm, with snow and it was very cold---and the harbor froze over and we had to anchor in the ocean overnight. On New Year's morning, the ice breaker was sent to meet us and broke up the 5 foot thick ice, so that we could slowly enter the harbor. After leaving the ship, we encountered a train--all boxcars connected together. All of us found our places and in the very fresh air, we left Vladivostok. We arrived in Charbin [Harbin, China?] on January 4th. It was very cold. Here we had to spend 10 days, on account of the dearth of things, with only one train here. Here, everything was brought into its proper order and we were issued fur overcoats and felt boots and our wages. Orders were called, "Get into the train [board the train]. This town was divided into two parts--the old and the new town with a mixed up population. We were all very happy to make the return trip via train, even though we were in a modern boxcar. In Charbin, we each received 15 ruble. When we were still in Japan, we sent the Czar and family, especially the one we sponsored, the young future ruler, a telegram which read, "Christos Woskres", Christ has risen and much luck and blessings. An answer followed, "Woistino Woskres", He has truly risen and he wishes to see us soon in our home country. And with that, we reached our goal and tossed money. Each one received 25 ruble as a gift. Ten ruble of it was paid in Japan and the other 15 ruble when we arrived in Charbin. That was very good since we needed it very much, because of wanting to appear as "discharged servicemen" upon reaching home, not "prisoners of war". One could at least purchase decent clothes before going home. The distance from Vladivostok to Charbin is 730 werst. (A werst has 500 threads [strings] and one string had 7 feet.) On another train you can go to Port Arthur---this is 25 stations or 927 wersts. From Charbin to the Manchuria Station is 876 werst. This is the China East train. Between Charbin and Port Arthur are 37 stations. Between Charbin and Manchuria there are 31 stations. We left Charbin on January 15th with the goal to "Chita" [Russia] and "Berkai Udinsk". Our train (Eschakon) had the number 505. Before us lay the sea "Baykal" [actually Lake Baykal]. Apparently it hadn't been possible to build a bridge across the sea. We drove close to the right side of the water....on the left side were very high mountains surrounded by boulders. In the middle is the place where two trains are able to pass each other if the opportunity to do so is necessary. We arrive in "Irkutsk" [Siberia]. As our train comes to a halt, I'm reminded of the station "Siret", where a friend from Frank, Johannes KISSLER lives. I was told it is 212 west to there. From the station Manchuria to Irkutsk it is 1183 werst with 39 stations. The train carries the name "Sabaikalsk., Schelefnoi Doroga". Finally I see the station "Tiret". I asked a Russian by the name of "Nikiforov" if a man by the name of KISSLER lived there. The answer was "yes--in the village which lies 1 werst in the distance from the rail yard". We two, the other soldier and I, looked at each other....now what do I do? No time to spare. If we want to visit him we have no time to spare. This is what we did---we requested our comrades take our baggage under their care and to watch our small riches. After the train left, we went to the village. We met a boy in order to get some information. After talks back and forth, the Russian man told us that Ivan Kissler was his neighbor. We prepared ourselves with candy and entered his yard. As we knocked on the door, a woman's voice inside answered "Sachoti"--come in! We entered. Before us sat a small woman on a stool peeling potatoes. We greeted the woman in Russian, "Svrastvitja". She thanked us and allowed the knife to drop on the peelings and asked in Russian, "Who are you, what are you looking for?" She could see very well that we were two soldiers (Junior officers). We asked, "Is Ivan Andrew at home?" She answered, "Yes--I will go immediately and call him." As she stood up, she remained standing in the same spot and trained her eyes upon us. The German language flew out of her mouth, "Who are you?"
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Hillrose, Colorado -- June 16th, 1932 --
We answered her by saying we didn't understand the German language. She looked at me with this question. "Aren't you Casper's Johann Georg?" I had to say, "Yes". Her friends from Frank, that were at their house, the "Kawaka Hannes" and his wife--they had the nickname "Barekelge". We sat down while she hurried and called him. The door was opened and in came Johannes KISSLER wearing a beard exactly like a Russian. We greeted each other and then began the questions and answers. After a well prepared and good supper, we remained awake until after midnight - 1:00 AM. While tears flowed, we sang this song, "I Always Think of Home". When we retired, he insisted the three of us were to sleep in one bed. We stayed until the next afternoon - 3:00 PM. Then he hitched his horse to the sled and we had our good-byes, but first the tears. His children just didn't want to let go of us. But it had to be. When we arrived at the train yard, we had to wait almost another hour for the train. The reception did not want to end. He purchased 2 tickets for us for the next 2 or 3 towns. We had planned to catch our train on its way, because it was a service (soldier's) train. which we intended to board. The train arrived and we said good-bye. Johannes wept. Now we are on the Siberian railroad. The distance from Irkutsk to Chelyabinsk is 3048 werst long and has 99 stations. We couldn't catch our train. The first big town was Krasnoyarsk. After 7 days of riding we caught up with our comrades and all was well. Here is Tomsk and the Kirgisen steppes (grasslands). Siberia is a very cold land with many steppes and forest. There live many wild animals because it isn't habitable. It is a scary area. From Chelyabinsk to Sysran it is 1057 werst with 54 stations in-between. We came to Omsk. Here is the Sahara-Slatowstov railroad. From Sysran to Moscow it is 904 werst, with 24 stations in-between. We traveled from Sysran not to Moscow, but to Samara. There we had to cross the wonderful bridge which crosses the river "Volga". On this trip I met only 3 people from Frank, 2 with the names UHRICH and one name AMEND. As we then arrived in Samara, we reached the end of our trip where all soldiers had to travel together. Each received his wages. Now we could travel in chairs to West Atkarsk. The joy (happiness) was great as we arrived. Here became the discharge. Here we changed clothes, cleaned ourselves, allowed ourselves haircuts so that within a short time we resembled soldiers. All was now in order. We purchased passage to Lisoguri, which wasn't far from Atkarsk which lay in the distance. Here was the end of our railroad ride. We hired two sleds with 2 Russians who were to take us to Frank. We had breakfast at their houses. The horses were ready. We three sat on the sled and with a "Sviistock" (whistle), we were off. As we were in the Adalkere forest, we met several sled loaded with oats. They were people from Frank--Jacob Hofferbersch and Gottmann. At the summit near "Gnesowka", we met a dust storm and it began to get dark. Since we had contracted with the Russians to get home during the night, we became afraid that we might have to stay somewhere for the night. The horses were good. The Russians said, "Sevodna Notgh mi budem f Krestova". As we reached the village of Gnesovka, we had to feed our horses and give them a rest period. It was 11:00 PM (nighttime). We allowed them to give us the tea machine (Samovar) and refreshed ourselves with something I do not wish to divulge. I had raised an entire family to their feet when I knocked on a window in order to ask where the soldier lived who was in Port Arthur; then came the Russian Matchka (wife) with the entire family out of the house, thinking I was their son for whom they had been waiting day after day. Naturally one had to laugh. Since it was still 6 werst to Frank, the heart beat always more and faster. The Russians said, "Teber mi-skoro dojedem". Now we will be there soon. And certainly at one o'clock at night we were there (home)!! Jacob Uhrich (of Spreuer) and I drove past my father's house where the light was still burning brightly. We went without any delay to Uhrich's house. The weather was still stormy. I walked to the window, knocked, requested in Russian, "who's home?" Uhrich's mothers and wife, with the children, lived alone. The old mother said to his wife, "We want to let the people in", so they say "Voschaluista - I request of you". The door opened and the elderly mother stepped forward. I, as a soldier, stood before her. She called out, "O dear God--Jacob, is that you?" I answered in Russian. Since it was cold, I called Jacob from his hiding place. We walked into the house with our driver. Kisses, tears of joy suppressed all sleep. She looked at me and said, "For God's sake, you are still alive, we were of the opinion that you were dead a long time (already) ago." The mother, in complete happiness, wished to cook sausage in order to show us her happiness and love. I thanked her, took my driver and we went back to my house. The house was dark now. I walked into the house without announcing myself. I wanted to light a lamp, but was unable to find a match. My elderly father came out of the other room with a lantern towards me. He was scared and stood still, looking at me. I said, "Do not be afraid". These words brought everyone to his feet--my wife, my mother ,brothers, sisters, and my two children. This hour one could compare well with a dream, for the joy was so great. I had kept my driver with me. He said, "I have never seen anything like that in my lifetime." A recall---glory and honor for all!! Some die in time; praise will come from everyone, well until in the hereafter. Love and praise for all the lame who now must go through life like that. Without legs, without arms and no one to support them. The dear Lord protected and saved me, so that I was able to return healthy and lucky on February 15th, to my son's birthday; and on Shrove Tuesday, the courage to step into my father's house which I left in 1901. I must say that my three comrades, KANZLER, GIES and STRECK were already at home by the time I reached home. For that reason all my dear ones and those who are able to read my report, don't let ;this sadden you that you weren't able to see it all; because there is still much I can't write. For that reason is all of this, as far as I know, absolutely true.