New book released on Volga Germans
November 8, 2018
Richard Scheuerman will discuss his latest book, "Hardship to Homeland: The Pacific Northwest Volga Germans," next Thursday, Nov. 15, at 6:30 p.m. in The Center at Colfax Library. A second presentation is also set for Friday, Nov. 16, at 4 p.m. at the WSU Holland/Terrell Library Atrium.
"Homeland" represents years of research into the Volga German settlements in this region and is Scheuerman's personal connection. Born and raised on a farm between Endicott and St. John, Scheuerman's ancestors were Volga Germans.
Scheuerman's book recounts a unique story in a saga that stretches from Germany to Russia and across the Atlantic. In 1863, Russian empress Catherine II invited Europeans to immigrate. Colonists became Russian citizens, yet kept their language and culture, founding 104 Volga River communities. By 1871, facing poor economic conditions and an army draft, 100,000 Volga German poured into the New World, eventually spreading throughout the Pacific Northwest and influencing agriculture, religion, politics and social development in their new homeland, including Whitman County.
Scheuerman is a career historian and professional educator. His honors include the Washington State Historical Society's Robert Gray Medal for outstanding contributions to history education and the Washington Governor's Award for Excellence in Teaching.
This event is sponsored by WSU Press and WSU Libraries. Refreshments will be served.
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