Who were the Palatines?

 

As with so many things in history, the term “Palatine” is a misnomer.  The Palatines were German farmer emigrants, some of whom originated from the Palatinate region of Germany.  Many of whom did not. 

The winter of 1708 – 1709 was an extremely harsh one in Germany.  All mills were brought to a standstill because of frozen waterways.  Many cattle, wild animals, and even humans froze to death.   Some said that birds froze in mid-air.  The region had also been under siege by France, with farms and villages being destroyed countless times.

These people lived under a feudalistic type of government and were, therefore, living in extreme poverty.  That was a typical reason for emigration, however, there was another reason for the Palatines to leave – propaganda.  In 1709 a book penned by Joshua Kocherthal, a Lutheran pastor, was being spread across the German Southwest.  The book hinted that Britain’s Queen Anne might give free land in America, and might provide them with transportation to get there.  That was all they needed to hear.  Over 15,000 farmers packed up what little they had and set out for the great unknown.

I find myself wondering if any of us today could be that brave.  Have that doggedness.  The perseverance.   I’m glad I don’t have to, and I’m grateful that they did. 

Stay tuned to for the journey to the “Promised Land” -  Schoharie, NY!

Reference:  “Becoming German” by Phillip Otterness