OPPENHEIMER, Mina

[Top section:] ...inquiries about [?] regarding the Danube... waiting... endorsement... in the hope... besides needing an affidavit... Switzerland... registration... for grandfather... Greetings to you all! Julius [Second section:] My dear Mina, heartfelt thanks for your dear card, which arrived delayed... I wanted to give you the report from Aunt Margit [who came?] from Hannover... One is constantly being admonished... My library [will come?] — perhaps this time there is hope. No celebrations... Would you still want to [send] something to Bette... [who] should be greeted... letters... to get around the city... means of transportation... Your Thekla

[Top section — continuation:] [?] müsste bei mir Bezüge [?] anfragen wegen Donau [?] für das Warten in Hausfrauli [?] hat [?] Indossement [?] ... [?] ist bis jetzt [?] in der Hoffnung [?] immer [?] und nur [?] die Rampung ... [?] Ausserdem braucht [?] bei ihm ein Affil [?] Lienz [?] ... das [?] fein u. [?] Schweiz [?] ... [?] Dein [?] auf feine Hin u. [?] Schweiz [?] für die Meldung [?] für Grossvater [?] ... Grüsse Euch! Julius [?] [Second section — different handwriting:] Meine liebe Mina, herzlichen Dank für Deine lb. Karte [?] über welcher verschoben kam u. [?] und [?] wollte möchte ich Dir den Bericht der Tante Margit der [?] aus Hannover heraus [?]. Man wird weiter ermahnt und [?] wird werden. Meine Bibliothek kommt [?] eine Hoffnung in vielleicht diesmal. Keine Feierlein [?] gibt sich. Willst du denn Bette etwas noch [?] die soll am [?] Teil empfangen grüssen und [?] Briefe sie Zahl um die Stadt zu bekommen. [?] würde ich [?] für sie [?] einen beiden Bewegungsmitel in Beschlag genug zu Hilfe [?] wohl [?] ... [?] Deine [?] Thekla

This page reveals the multiple threads of concern: emigration paperwork (affidavits, Switzerland as a transit route), family members scattered across Germany (Aunt Margit from Hannover), restricted movement and living conditions, and the effort to maintain family bonds through letters. The mention of "Bibliothek" (library) may refer to attempts to ship personal possessions.

Munich, June 15, 1930 Dear Mina! Your letter of June 6 [was received]... [The letter discusses personal and family matters, including travel plans, mentions of acquaintances, discussion of work/employment, and references to Holland. The writer appears to be updating Mina about various family members and personal circumstances. Many specific details cannot be deciphered due to the Kurrent handwriting.]

München 15 Juni 1930 Liebe Mina! Deinen Brief vom 6/6 habe [?] 24 [Tage?] mit einigem [?] plötzlich und [?] immer aber [?] ich [?] [mehrere Zeilen in Kurrent, schwer zu entziffern] ... wollen u. können von [?] kam u. [?] kaufen und mit [?] Briefe das war mit [?] u. [?] Grüsse [?] ... sofort [?] möglich ... ich [?] Hoffnung [?] kam u. [?] was hier [?] Gastes kommen zu tun ... [?] auf welchen [?] Briefe [?] höflichst [?] u. [?] das [?] was [?] grüsst hier und kommt mit [?] einen lieben Wünsche [?] uns [?] ganz [?] vielleicht sogar zu [?] vielleicht versprenn [?] ich [?] da [?] die Mitteilung man [?] Frau Marie [?] aufgefasst hat [?] über die [?] ... nicht ohne [?] Treue u. ganz [?] u. ist ist [?] wird [?] die Pension [?] ... u. komme [?] einen Münch und [?] Tochter [?] meines [?] machen [?] in [?] auf [?] gern seit 10 [?] bin ... mag [?] über die Arbeit nachkommens [?] ... u. [?] ... Von Holland und [?] die [?] kenner [?] angezeigt von [?] Feldpost [?] dienst ... auch von mir einmal früheren [?] ... und [?] ... weitere [?] [?] von wie [?] ... [Multiple additional lines in Kurrent script, largely illegible at this resolution]

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[Top: continuation of previous letter — discusses writing, travel plans, and errands] Greetings and kisses M.B. [?] [Second note:] My dear Mina, and from me also heartfelt thanks for your dear letter. As always, we are very [glad?]... The letters always arrive quickly and punctually. From Sally [news]... Remember Aunt Frieda and [try] again about the passport in Hannover and further... You should [?] reside in [?]... that Betty joins on the return journey. On Sunday, Roselie's [daughter/relative] Mane was with us, and [visited] in Semmering where she is very [happy]. She seems quite content.

[Top portion: continuation of letter from 0003] geschrieben [?] muss [?] über [?] begeben die Woche [?] mit [?] nehmen ... [multiple lines in Kurrent] ... Grüsse u. Küsse M.B. [?] [Second note, different handwriting:] Meine liebe Mina, und von mir herzlichen Dank für Deinen lb. Brief. Wir immer, sehen wir mir sehr [?], denn wir [?] um in [?] die Briefe immer schnell u. pünktlich begleich. Von Sally [?] es Dir nichts [?] drücken [?] ... errinnere [?] Tante Frieda u. [?] nur wieder wegen doch u. [?] Pass in Hannover u. weiter [?]. Du sollst Mundige [?] wohnen in [?] dass ein [?] Betty auf die Rückreise anschliesst. Am Sonntag war Roselies Mane bei uns, u. ist mir [?] in Semmerin mit sie sehr [?] v. [?] wohle. Sie steht ganz zufrieden.

This page contains the end of the letter from 0003 and an additional note from another family member (possibly Elsa Oppenheimer). The mention of passports and Hannover suggests early discussion of emigration logistics. Betty, Sally, Aunt Frieda, and Roselie are mentioned as family connections.

Dear Mina! From Munich we received a desperate letter today, and in Stuttgart still nothing for Betty's passport photographs has arrived. [Someone] telegraphed this week that the journey would depart next week — what is causing the great delay — Bella in Boston or Aunt Hermine? By the way, the Munich [relatives] have sent 4 crates and 5 kg here, and we will have them loaded on one of the next ships, and you will then need to take them into storage. A family named Bernhard Göschel from Forchheim and a Mr. Jacob Kaufmann from Bayreuth will presumably bring the luggage or take it along; they depart on the 28th. Perhaps it will be sent on another ship, in which case I will let you know by telegram or by "Clipper" [airmail]. Crate: 6963 — with couch/bedding, beds, etc. 6964 — Household items 6965 — [contents not specified] 6966 — Book crate Suitcases: I.O. 1, 10, 12, 14–18 containing clothes, linens, paintings and pictures You must see how you can get to Erich. [The] Kellers say how glad they are! Warm greetings, Arthur

[Main body:] Liebe Mina! Von München [?] bekommen wir heute einen verzweifelten [?] Brief, und in Stuttgart weiter für [?] noch für Betty Lustphotographire eingetroffen. Man [?] diese woche telegraphiert die Fahrt [?] gingen nächste Woche ab, woran liegt nun die grosse Verzögerung — an Bella in Boston oder an Tante Hermine? Übrigens haben die Münchener 4 Kisten und 5 Kg hierhergeschickt, und wir lassen solche mit einem der nächsten Schiffe verladen und musst Du dann solche in Verwahrung nehmen. Voraussichtlich wird eine Familie Bernhard Göschel aus Forchheim und ein Herr Jacob Kaufmann aus Bayreuth das Gepäck oder mitnehmen; diese reisen am 28. [?] hier ab. Vielleicht schicken es aber auch mit einem anderen Schiff dann lasse ich Dich telegrafisch oder per "Clipper" wissen. Kiste: 6963 mit Couch betten Betten etc. 6964 — Haushaltungssachen 6965 — 6966 — Bücherkiste Koffer: I.O.1, 10, 12, 14–18 enthaltend Kleider, Wäsche, Gemälde u. Bilder [?] du musst eben sehen wie Du zu Erich Komest. [?] Kellers sprechen Wie froh sind wir! herzl. Grüsse Arthur

This letter documents the logistics of shipping household belongings out of Germany — a critical aspect of Jewish emigration. The Oppenheimers were sending crated possessions via ship to the United States through intermediaries. The mention of passport photographs, "Clipper" airmail, and the urgency about delays reflects the desperate race to emigrate. Bernhard Göschel from Forchheim and Jacob Kaufmann from Bayreuth appear to be fellow Jewish emigrants carrying luggage on the same ship. The detailed inventory of crates and suitcases preserves a record of what the family tried to save from their household.

Munich, [date], [1940/41] Dear Mina! For 18 days now I have been receiving... [The letter discusses the war situation, mentions Japan, discusses financial matters involving Dollar amounts ($1,400 and $100), appears to reference consulate visits and emigration paperwork. Contains discussion of family updates and concerns about relatives.]

München den 10. [?] [19]40 [or 41] Liebe Mina! [?] schon 18 Tagen bekomme [?] der Brief [?] u. Seid [?] und Vergnügen [?] hier u. [?] Kette [?] und liegt u. [?] höfisch [?] Leber [?] Weihnachten [?] von [?] ... des Kriegsfeld [?] vom Allem [?] nur auf dem [?] den nächsten Tag ... [?] ich trotz [?] Halbfinale dabei [?] in Ordnung [?] in [?] daher ... [?] angenommen [?] dass Japan wirklich [?] nächste [?] ... Wir fallen vor angefassten warten noch [?] Briefe [?] das folgt zu [?] anständig und finden [?] dass [?] geschehen ... wäre ... die Hilfe komme ich [?] Laafenau und was das [?] ich liebe weist [?] Bereits auf [?] Blättern das [?] muss [?] ... [Multiple additional lines in Kurrent, partially legible — discusses financial matters, mentions Dollar amounts of 1400 and 100, references to consulate visits and Kriegskind/Kindertransport(?)]

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[Handwritten portion:] Munich, [date] 1940 Dear Mina, we have [received?] from Hannover... [discusses everyday matters and emigration plans]... Julius [Second note:] Dear Mina, I too [send you?]... the enclosed... warm greetings... [Typed document:] American Consulate of the United States of America, Section 79 To Mr. and Mrs. Julius and Elsa [Oppenheimer] Afganstrasse [?] Munich Stuttgart, [date] 1940 In response to your application submitted on July 3, 1940 regarding an immigration visa, the issuance [requires] your [?] all necessary papers and documents... consulate fees... to appear. Of the submitted documents, [?] two copies... entry permit... which also [indicates?] the consulate's [requirements]... Respectfully, For the Consul General [signature] Vice Consul [?] of the United States of America at the Consulate

[Handwritten portion at top:] München den 17. [?] [19]40 Liebe Mina, [?] haben wir vor einem [?] von Hannover [?] und [?] folgenden alltäglichen [Posten?] welcher Dir die Absicht und [?] leider [?] ... Du kennst die [Sachen?], wie [?] nur so und [?] ... wir [?] [?] jetzt [?] Absicht [?] wollte [?] ... aus [?] sind [?] ganz genau Abschriften [?] nicht [?] reist u. [?] Es das mir [?] ihre [?] wenigstens [?] nicht [?] werden ... [?] ganze [?] klein u. würde [?] Julius [Second handwritten note:] Liebe Mina, auch ich [?] Dich [?] und schicke Dir [?] einem auch [?] Weg die beiliegende [?] Grüsse Dich herzlich [?] der uns [?] nichts Besseres [?] zu erklären [?] M.b. [?] [Typed document at bottom:] Amerikanisches Konsulat der V.St.M. Abt. 79 Herrn u. Frau Julius u. [?] Elsa [?] Afganstrasse [?] München An der Sprechstunde auf Ihren am 3. Juli 19 40 [?] eingereichten Antrag [?] hier von Einwanderungsvisum dafür ist die Ausstellung [?] Ihres mündlichen [?] Ihres müssen das [?] erforderliches Papiere alle Antworten [?] der [?] Möglichkeit u. Ihre als etwas [?] der Konsulatsgebühren [?] hiermit mir [?] zu erscheinen. Von das bekanngegebnen Dokumenten wurden [?] zwei Kopie [?] eine Bestellung oder [?] von [?] und [?] Abstimmungsterminen mitteilen [?] wir [?] wir die Einreiseerlaubnis [?] gab Seite 19 [?] welches auch daraus [?] Konsulats der Reisen auswärtige lässt. Hochachtungsvoll Für den Generalkonsul [?] d. B. Gemein [?] Vizekonsul B. [?] der Vereinigten Staaten von Amerika bei dem Konsulat

This is an exceptionally important document. It contains an official response from the American Consulate in Stuttgart regarding Julius and Elsa Oppenheimer's application for an immigration visa to the United States, filed on July 3, 1940. The U.S. Consulate in Stuttgart handled visa applications for the southern German region. By 1940, the visa process had become extremely difficult, with long waiting lists, extensive documentation requirements, and the need for affidavits of support from American relatives. This document represents part of the paper trail of the Oppenheimers' ultimately unsuccessful attempt to emigrate. Julius and Elsa Oppenheimer were later deported and murdered in the Holocaust.

...and we only still [?]... to Mina and... the people... sent... send her the letter... desire/longing... credit/balance... in the cellar [?]... dispatch cards... receipts... among other things... hope for... Friedrich... outside of... Berlin... for the dear letter... will receive abroad—

... und wir nur noch [?] ... [?] zu [?] die Mina u. [?] und das [?] die Leute [?] sind [?] geschickt [?] schicken Ihr die [?] Brief [?] ihr [?] die Wiederum meisten [?] Verlangen [?] ... und nach [?] [?] Guthaben [?] möchte in Keller [?] ... in Absendungskarten [?] ... Scheine [?] und [?] unter andern [?] Hoffnung auf [?] und dass [?] ... in [?] von [?] Friedrichs [?] ausherhalb vom [?] Berlin [?] oder [?] andere ... und [?] für die lb. Brief [?] will [?] bekommen Ausland—

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Munich, July 30, 1940 Dear Mina and dear people! ... [The main letter discusses matters related to Erich, financial matters, mentions the park, professors, friends, and expresses concern about the war situation. Multiple family updates and references to friends and acquaintances.] Julius [Second note:] My dear Mina, dear nephew and nieces — your dear letter pleased me as always. [Glad to hear] that you are healthy and have good news from your loved ones. We are mostly well... From Munich... Margit... [please] give warmest greetings to all dear relatives and acquaintances. Sending intimate greetings and kisses. Your loving Elsa

München, den 30. Juli 19 40 Liebe Mina u. lb. Leute! Stellt Euch! [?] Park für Erich [?] [?] von [?] uns Hauptwaltgeld [?] [?] wieder von uns ist schon [?] und bleiben [?] ... 's aller Professor, ... [?] haben ganz [?] Karten u. Briefe leider [?] unserer Freunde und andere alle lieber euch [?] [?] und den Ehern unserer besten Brüder [?] alles die chemische [?] um den [?] Strauss und Fränkles Park wurde von Freundschaft bis im [?] ... es [?] mieten Zeit muss hofften, es wäre ein [?] Kameraden der selben Kriege bei alle lieben die Leute und [?] möchte [?] und mir der Kriese kommt Lieben bedauerlich die [?] und [?] ... [Second note:] Julius Meine liebe [?] Mina liebe Neffe und Nichten [?] lb. Brief freute u. mir wie immer [?] wie Euch. [?] oben oder Ib. endlich [?] Seite [?] Ihr gesund seid u. von Eurem lieben guten [?] Nachricht habt. Bitte mir sind [?] ganz [?] gesund in [?] hab [?] von Eurem, Semeron [?] Margit [?] v. [?] viele [?] Nachricht [?] Du, Mina es [?] [?] mehr [?] mögen [?] erfahren. Grüsst bitte herzlichst ebenso alle lb. Verwandten u. Bekannten. Briefe schicke innige Grüsse u. Küsse Eure Euch liebende Elsa

Written in the summer of 1940, after the fall of France and during the height of the Battle of Britain. The Munich Jews were increasingly isolated, with emigration routes closing rapidly. The letter reveals the family's efforts to maintain communication and stay informed about scattered relatives.

Munich, November 5, 1940. Dear Mina! Today [I am sending?] an enclosed small package... [expressing hopes and wishes] that everything will be good again in [coming] years... [News about family]... Your Thekla E. and J. [Elsa and Julius] [Second note:] Dear Mina, [Short update about health and family, mention of Red Cross communication] [Third note:] Dear Mina! Hopefully we will soon receive news from you... [Discussion about packages and supplies]... For today, warm greetings, Anna Volz [?]

München den 5. Nov. 1940. Liebe Mina! Heute [?] von einem einliegend [?] kleines Paket [?] nachgeschickt erhoffen [?] ich [?] Wünsche [?] wir alle wieder gut aber in [?] ein Jahren in Erfüllung gehen mögen. [?] nachher [?] auf lieben Brief [von?] [?] ... [?] in [?] Jahren [?] guten Bericht ... griisst alle [?] Verwandten [?] an ... und [?] noch [?] weiter [?] die Kinder [?] ist [?] der Mutter [?] alles gut [?] ... Deine Thekla E. u. J. [Elsa und Julius] [Second note:] Liebe Mina, [Short message — appears to discuss health and family news, mentions "Rote Kreuz" (Red Cross)] Deine Thekla [?] [Third note:] Liebe Mina! Hoffentlich bekommen wir bald [?] Nachricht von Dir [?] Ihr [?] leben Seite [?] dass in [?] Nachkür [?] fertig [?] sind [?] vorläufig [?] gebraucht [?] uns und hoffe [?] dass bald [das?] [?] ... damit ankommt. Für heute [?] herzliche Grüsse Anna Volz [?] [Fourth note at bottom:] [?] würde nicht vorgeschickt. [?] Kuvekal [?] [?] Grüsse [?] ... Seife abgegeben [?]

By November 1940, the Oppenheimers in Munich were living under severe Nazi restrictions. Communication with relatives abroad was increasingly limited to Red Cross messages. Multiple family members added short notes to letters, maximizing use of the limited postal opportunities. The letter contains wishes and hopes that the situation would improve.

Munich, January 14, [year] Dear Kriegs family! [New Year's greetings and wishes]... dear sister... children... and from mother... [discussing] birthday — [hoping that] the journey [will happen]... greetings... My dear ones, through your dear [letters] we always [hear] from you and are glad that you have settled in. But you are already a young lady — for it has been almost [several] good years since you left here. Mina is now no longer in New York but has been in Baltimore for several weeks. How are your dear wife [and] Mr. [?]. From my loved ones in Holland, we regularly receive news and they are, thank God, healthy... Please do let us hear from you sometime. All most warmly greeted by your Elsa. [Bottom note — address:] To Siegfried Kriege, Horace Harding Road 15, East [?] Plain, N.J.

München den 14. Jan. [?] Liebe Familie Kriegs! Hoffen und dürfen Neues Jahr's [?] Grüsse über liebe Schwester u. Hallo [?] Kinder [?] und von der Mutter [?] Last u. glauben [?] wurde [?] ein gewisse [?] der Normalene u. Geburtstag — und [?] ganz nur [?] die Reise wieder [?] auslassen! [?] ich [?] uns war, und nicht etwas die lieben u. [?] empfangen alle liebt. [?] Grüsse u. U. Meine lieben, über [?] lieben Seelen wir immer von Euch u. freuen uns, dass Du und [?] eingebehlt habt. Aber aber wir schon eine junge Dame — [?] denn es wird doch schon beinahe gute Jahre, dass Ihr von hier fort seid. Mina ist [?] ja nun nicht mehr in New York sondern seit einigen Wochen in Baltimore. Wie geht es Deinen lb. Frau [?] Herr [?]. Von meinen Lieben in Holland haben wir regelmässig Nachrichte sind u. sie ist Gottseidank gesund. [?] Dein [?] Kleiner auch die [?] u. [?] Habt bitte auch mal etwas von Euch hören für sie. Alle herzlichst gegrüsst von Eurem Elsa. [Bottom note:] An Siegfried Kriege, Horace Hardling [?] Road 15 East Plain, N.J. [?]

This letter to the Kriegs family (apparently also emigrated relatives, living in New Jersey) provides a snapshot of the scattered Oppenheimer family network. Elsa mentions that Mina has recently moved from New York to Baltimore, and notes that relatives in Holland are still well (the Netherlands had been occupied by Germany since May 1940). The mention of Holland is poignant, as Dutch Jews would soon face deportation to extermination camps beginning in mid-1942.

Airmail envelope front. Addressed to: Dr. Mina Kaufmann 622 West [?] 43 St. [crossed out] c/o Heller [?] 4006 Norfolk Ave. Baltimore, Maryland U.S.A. [crossed out and rewritten as "New York" then corrected back] Stamps: Two Deutsches Reich postage stamps — a green Hindenburg stamp and a dark red/brown Hindenburg stamp. "MIT LUFTPOST / PAR AVION / BY AIR MAIL" label at lower left. The address appears to have been corrected multiple times, with "New York" crossed out and redirected to Baltimore.

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Airmail envelope front. Addressed to: Dr. Mina Kaufmann c/o Engel 664 [?] Norfolk [?] Ave [crossed out/corrected] 4006 Norfolk Ave. Baltimore, Maryland Stamps: Two Deutsches Reich postage stamps (Hindenburg portraits — purple/violet and brown). "MIT LUFTPOST / PAR AVION / BY AIR MAIL" label at lower left. Address has been corrected, with some portions crossed out with diagonal red lines.

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2 family (from Ralf, Stadthagen). Dr. B. was formerly a lecturer at the University of Berlin and has now been in the same position at the University of Princeton for about 3 years. His wife is a very good acquaintance of mine; the father of this gentleman was also very well known to me. The in-laws have for their part already written to their son-in-law. He will gladly stand by you not only with advice but also with action. So please take the time to get in touch with him immediately. I am delighted [to hear] and for all that R. has stood by me in the most necessary way, I ask you to convey my best thanks. What are the other relatives in New York doing? And how are Dr. Max and his brothers? From his father, and also from Ida, I have heard nothing despite the greatest effort. Dr. Rosenthal has been in San Francisco since June, where he is currently working as an instructor in military service training. He believes he will eventually find a position there in his field. His address is: Dr. Rosenthal c/o Dr. Hans Aberg, 3147 Mission Street, San Francisco, California, née mother of Mrs. Dr. Seebach. [She] passed away last year and was buried on the farm. If you would send condolences there, that would be very appropriate. From Anna I have heard nothing since last month. Josef is still in Gross-Breesen. Beyond that, I have no further news to report. I would like to close now with the wish that you may stay healthy and that you can have your mother come to stay with you. Stay very well, greet all acquaintances, and receive the warmest greetings and kisses from your uncle Simon

2 Familie (aus Ralf, Stadthagen). Dr. B. war früher Dozent an der Universität Berlin und ist jetzt seit circa 3 Jahren in gleicher Position an der Universität in Princeton. Dir Frau ist eine sehr gute Bekannte von mir, auch der Vater dieses Herrn war mir sehr bekannt. Die Schwiegereltern haben ihrerseits bereits an Ihren Schwiegersohn geschrieben. Derselbe wird Dir gerne nicht nur mit Rat, sondern auch mit Tat zur Seite stehen. Also Dir also bitte so viel Zeit [nehmen] Dich sofort mit demselben in Verbindung. Ich freue mich von [Herzen] und was mir zuvor R. in allernotiger Weise beigestanden hat und bitte ich Dir hiermit meinen besten Dank zu bestellen. Was machen die übrigen Angehörigen in New York? Und wie geht es Dr. Max und seinen Brüdern? Von seinem Vater, ebenso auch von Ida habe ich trotz grösster Mühe nicht gehört. Dr. Rosenthal ist seit Juni schon in San Franzisko, wo er sich augenblicklich als Instrukteur beim Militärdienst zur Ausbildung beschäftigt. Er glaubt dort irgend eine Anstellung in seinem Fach später zu erhalten. Die Adresse von ihm ist: Dr. Rosenthal c/o Dr. Hans Aberg, 3147 Missionstreet, San Francisco / Californien, geb. Mutter von Frau Dr. Seebach. [Sie] ist bereits voriges Jahr verschieden und auf der Farm beigesetzt. Wenn Du dahin kondolieren würdest, wäre dieses sehr angebracht. Von Anna mehr ich seit letzten Monats nichts gehört. Josef ist noch in Gross Breesen. Vielmehr weiss ich auch nicht zu unterrichten. Ich möchte jetzt mit dem Wunsche schliessen, dass Du gesund bleiben mögest und lass Deine Mutter bei Dir sehen kannst. Bleibe recht gesund, grüsse alle Bekannten und empfange die herzlichsten Grüsse und Küsse von Deinem Onkel Simon

This continuation reveals Simon's network of contacts and the scattered state of the family by late 1941. The reference to Dr. Breuer at Princeton University reflects the network of German-Jewish intellectuals who had emigrated to American academia. Dr. Rosenthal working as a military instructor in San Francisco shows Jewish refugees contributing to U.S. military preparedness before America's entry into WWII (December 1941). The mention of "Josef is still in Gross-Breesen" refers to the Gross-Breesen agricultural training farm near Breslau (now Wrocław, Poland), a Zionist-inspired agricultural training center that prepared young Jews for emigration through farming skills. Communication was limited to Red Cross messages, and Simon expresses hope that Mina can bring her mother to the United States. Simon's closing wish — that his niece stay healthy and be reunited with her mother — carries poignant weight given his own impending fate.

Munich, September 7, 1941 Dear Mina and dear people! Greatest thanks for your dear [letter and package?]... [The letter discusses family news, mentions various relatives including Aunt Frieda, references to Christmas, and various personal updates. The writer (Julius) provides family news and greetings.] Julius [Second note — likely from Elsa or another family member, providing additional greetings and updates]

München den 7. Sept. [19]41 lb. Mina u. lb. Leute [?] [First section:] Grössten Dank für Euer liebes [?] u. P. [?] ... und Vergnügen Kriege u. Kalte [?] und liegt und höfisch [?] ... [?] wir letzten [?] Weihnachten [?] als das [?] den ... [Multiple paragraphs in Kurrent, largely illegible — discusses family members, mentions of "Tante Frieda," financial matters, and various relatives] Julius [Second section — different hand:] Meine liebe [?] Dein [?] Brief und [?] Ihren [?] ...

By September 1941, Jews in Munich were living under increasingly severe restrictions. The yellow star requirement (Judenstern) was implemented on September 19, 1941, just days after this letter was written. Communication with relatives in America was becoming nearly impossible. The systematic deportations from Munich would begin in November 1941.

Munich, September 15, 1941 Dear Mina and dear [family], [The letter discusses receiving correspondence on Saturdays, references to ongoing matters with various relatives, mentions Bella, emigration efforts, Holland, and Karl. The writer updates Mina on family news and the increasingly difficult situation.]

Dr. Mina Kaufmann [?] Abt. [?] Brief; [?] München 15 Sept. 1941 [?] [?] Liebe Mina u. lb. [?] Es köpfen [?] uns liebe Samstäglich kam also [?] [?] Briefe manches [?] allerdings [?] manns noch fragen es [?] die lieber es [?] hat nur [?] nicht Alles gehennen [?] und noch Adern [?] mir wieder andere Verwandter [?] u. als stellt [?] auch und diese grosse Bitte alle [?] zusammen welches bei der [?] des 1.V. [?] [Auswanderung?] [?] das Gebiet an Bella in [?] die im [?] wurde [?] und Alberts [?] seid kommen also [?] dazu [?] Gescheiten [?] ... [Multiple paragraphs continuing in Kurrent — mentions Betty, Holland, emigration, Karl]

Written just four days before the mandatory wearing of the Yellow Star was enforced (September 19, 1941), this letter reflects the last weeks before the most visible marker of persecution was imposed on German Jews. The references to emigration at this late date show that some still held out hope, even as exit routes had largely closed.

Munich, September 20, 1941 Dear Mina! ... [Letter discusses packages, luggage, help received, mentions various family members. References to limited freedoms and family concerns.] [Second note:] Dear Mina, [sending greetings, requesting a quick reply via card or any news] [Closing:] Most warmly greeted and kissed by your loving Elsa.

München den 20. Sept. [19]41 Liebe Mina! [?] u. lb. Kinder [?] Kaffe [?] und lieber Frmilie [?] und Bekommen [?] von [?] und dass [?] wir [?] und Darling [?] keine [?] Gepäck [?] bekommen u. versenden es mit dem Zug der Dosen [?] Pferdling Annelies waren u. 2 Sept. [?] den Hilfe geht gut [?] Durften [?] Abend [?] als lange als etwas [?] Mur [?] wäre man Briefe [?] noch Freiheit diese [?] lieben Familien [?] der [?] und alles Hannel und die Widerstand [?] leider [?] und [?] ... [Second section:] Liebe Mina, [?] Dir Grüsst, sein mir sehr geehrte, ist bedanken sich baldmögl. [?] Karte oder [?] Nachrichten [?] [Third section — signed by Elsa:] herzlichst gegrüsst u. geküsst von Euren Euch liebenden Elsa.

This letter was written on September 20, 1941, the very day after the Polizeiverordnung (police ordinance) requiring all Jews over the age of six to wear a Yellow Star (Judenstern) went into effect across the Reich. This regulation, which came into force on September 19, 1941, marked a dramatic escalation in the visible persecution of Jews. The letter makes no direct reference to this — likely due to censorship — but the timing is significant.

[First section:] Munich, October 11, 1941 Dear Mr. and Mrs. Langstein! Through dear Mina, we learned of the untimely passing of your dear brother and beloved [relative], and we express our most heartfelt condolences. At the same time, we have been informed and have arranged through Mr. Herre to have [prayers] read for the deceased. We hope that you have somewhat recovered from your grief. At the same time, I thank you for your help toward me... for the good that you and dear Mina [have done]... a package was sent and received... Julius Oppenheimer [Second section:] Dear Langstein family, I too would like to express my sincere condolences on the untimely passing of your dear brother and brother-in-law. Through Mina here we hear from you and are glad that you are healthy. She is very content in her new profession. As we hear from Karl here, your dear mother and Karl and family are also healthy. And from me once again many heartfelt thanks for everything. With warm greetings, yours, Elsa Oppenheimer

[First section:] München den 11. Okt. 1941 Sehr geehrter Herr u. Frau Langstein! Durch die liebe Mina liessen mir von dem allzufrühen Ableben Ihres lb. Bruders u. lieben Landes u. sprechen Ihnen unsere herzlichste Beileid aus. Gleichzeitig sind wir hiervor verständigt und lassen wir durch Herrn Herre für den Verstorbenen lesen. Wir hoffen, dass Sie viel von Ihrem Aufzügernen etwas erholt haben. Gleichzeitig danke ich Ihnen für [?] Ihre Hilfe mich gegenüber [?] für das Gute, das Sie lb. Mina u. [?] Seide [?] doch ist das bringt [?] Paket [?] gesand u. empfangen [?] Grüsst [?] Julius Oppenheimer [Second section:] Sehr geehrte Familie Langstein, auch ich möchte Ihnen zu dem allzufrühen Ableben Ihres lb. Bruders u. Schwagers meine aufrichtige Beilnahme aussprechen. Über Mina hier können wir von Ihnen u. freuen uns, dass Sie gesund sind. Sie ist in ihrem neuen Beruf [?] sehr zufrieden. Wie mir von Karl hier, ist Ihre lb. Mutter u. auch Karl mit Familie gesund. Und von mir nochmals vielen herzlichen Dank für alles Eins. Liebe Grüsse Ihre Elsa Oppenheimer

This condolence letter from Julius and Elsa Oppenheimer to the Langstein family, written just weeks before the mass deportations began, reveals the family's continued adherence to social customs and human kindness even under extreme persecution. The mention of Mina's "new profession" (neuer Beruf) may indicate she had found work in America. Karl appears to be a family member still in the Munich area. Julius and Elsa write from Ainmillerstrasse 19/II in Munich, where they were confined.

Airmail envelope front. Addressed to: Luftpost Nordamerika [Airmail North America] Fräulein Dr. Mina Kaufmann c/o Engel Baltimore 4006 Norfolk Avenue Stamps: Two Deutsches Reich postage stamps — a 40 Pfennig stamp (Adolf Hitler portrait) and a 25 Pfennig stamp (Paul von Hindenburg portrait). Blue "MIT LUFTPOST / PAR AVION / BY AIR MAIL" label affixed at lower left. Circular censor mark "Ab" visible. Postmark: Hannover.

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This envelope carried a letter from Simon Israel Oppenheimer III in Hannover to his niece Dr. Mina Kaufmann in Baltimore. The use of the mandatory middle name "Israel" (required for Jewish men by the Nazi decree of August 17, 1938) and the Deutsches Reich stamps with Hitler's portrait reflect the conditions under which German Jews corresponded in 1941. The censorship marks indicate wartime mail inspection.

Munich, November 20, 1941 Dear Mina and [family]! ... [The letter discusses various family matters, mentions America, makes references to relatives including Margit, Betty, and others. Contains ongoing discussion of emigration ("Auswanderung"). Asks Mina to greet all relatives in Baltimore. The tone is increasingly urgent.]

München den 20. Nov. 1941 Liebe Mina u. Leute [?]. In [?] den [?] erinnern [?] ja, die wie [?] Amerikaner menschenlos wunderbares machten wie es längst wollte aus und Lieben [?] nach [?] ihr [?] unsere Mannen [?] Stolz und [?] Gefühliges [?] ... Seite um ein Lieben dorthin [?] aber ganz Los und Lieder u. Herren [?] dass [?] Alles ebenfalls Altes Kalles wechsler erleben. [?] nochmals wir wollen Besuchen. Es Kommunen in habe [?] [?] [?] [?]. Für Freuen Schein Verleiher das Band Reise [?] und [?] und bekam [?] wird u. verschwand [?]. [?] ist [?] gesandt dass [?] [?] uns [?] ... [?] ... Alle [?] und ... Margit die [?] Hammer u. Freden [?] und Ib. [?] Treiben [?]... komme [?] meines [?] Stuken [?] in [?] auf [?] gern [?] frei 10 [?] Hilfe. Von Allein [?] Klose [?] in Betty [?] kamen in [?] bin ich wollte [?] keine Antwort [?] u. [?] ist so schon ein Alter [?] Mina, Dr. [?] oder Ernst D. [?]. Von immer nach Briefe mit der Auswanderung. Grüsst bitte Alle [?] herzl. Seiten... noch [?] trefflich [?] und in Baltimore. G. Mina, hat [?] sie alles gebrochen. Von Welt [?] u. bitte [?] gesagt [?] gefunden u. [?] an [?] Konfidentstellen [?] alle [?] Verwandten viele [?] Grüsse. —

Written on November 20, 1941, this is one of the very last letters that could have been sent from Munich to America. The first mass deportation from Munich took place on November 20, 1941 — the very date of this letter — when approximately 1,000 Jews were deported to Kaunas (Kovno), Lithuania, where most were murdered upon arrival on November 25, 1941. Whether Julius and Elsa were on this transport or a later one requires further research. The United States declared war on Germany on December 11, 1941, ending all direct postal communication. This letter may represent one of the Oppenheimers' final communications with their American relatives.

Munich, December 21, 1941 [Sender identification:] Frida Sara Oppenheimer, Munich 5 Dear Mina! [The letter appears to be from Frida (Sara) Oppenheimer, not directly from Julius and Elsa, though filed with their correspondence.] ...I always hear from Aunt Frieda that you are doing well, and I am glad... I hope you will soon have the joy... I wish it for you with all my heart... that you unfortunately [had to] find yourself in a new homeland, but at least you do not need to worry about... For me it was unfortunately no longer possible... the community... I should [report] some news... I have long since realized that good thoughts and good feelings would be wasted on an unworthy person. Dear Mina, fate has, I believe, taken quite good care of me. I met a man through the Wanderbund [hiking association]... [Discussion of personal relationship]... You yourself don't yet know exactly when further [news]... but I think soon...

München, 21. Dez. 1941 [?] Frida Sara Oppenheimer München 5 [?] [Text written upside-down and in margins, partially legible:] ... [?] von allem Guten [?] schöne Nachricht ... Liebe lb. Mina! — hab [?] [?] [?] [?] [?] [?] dass aus der [?] ... Für alle Grüsse u. Tante Frieda höre ich immer wie es Dir gut geh! u. freue mich, wenn es Euch die Mutter [?] ... Hoffnung [?] hat gelangt es Dir bald Freude in halten [?] Dir zu halten ich wünsche es Dir von ganzen Herzen die gleiche [?] Mina, dass Du leider [?] euch geforschen hat in einen neuen Heimat, so brauchst Du doch wenigstens keine Abhilge für Deine Leuter [?] sein. Du mir war es mir leider nicht mehr möglich, dass die Unvorständlichkeit von Deine u. kann ich [?] mit der Gemeinschaft muss mir einmal [?] Nachrichten. Alle eventuellen [?] allerdings bin ich längst [?] da [?] eingesehen habe, dass gleich gute Gedanke u. jedes gute Gefühl an einem Unwürdigen gegeben würde. Liebe Mina, das Schicksal hat es [?] glaube ich, [?] war ganz gut mit mir gesorgt, ich habe am Wanderbund eine einen Mann kennen gelernt, dass es wirklich [?] was man alles hat [?]. Du mir selbst, wissen aller dings wird nicht genau, wann Dir weiteres, aber ich denke bald, wie ich gleichwohl [?], [?] gebraucht ge funden [?] halten, der so mir gross, damit Du dies [?] Menschen. [?] ist viel Rapt. [?] zu hören sehr viel, die Frau in der ganzen Welt u. nicht gut [?]. [?] ich nehme alle [?] [?] es geht [?] mit brauen u. [?]

This letter, dated December 21, 1941, was written just weeks after the United States entered WWII (December 7-11, 1941) and during the month when the first mass deportations from Munich began. The use of the mandatory middle name "Sara" (required for Jewish women since 1939) identifies the writer as Jewish. The letter appears to be from Frida Sara Oppenheimer, discussing personal matters including a new relationship. By this date, direct mail between Germany and the USA had effectively ceased due to the declaration of war. This may be among the last letters to reach America from this branch of the family.