Musicians and Circus artists from Kusel and Enkenbach – Working over the pond (SGGS Meetings and Events)
Presented by Angelika Schmalbach (in Germany). Over several centuries many Rhineland Palatine people migrated to the U.S. for varied reasons. At the end of 19th century in the big poverty in rural areas, there developed a quite interesting way of life – especially in Kusel and the Enkenbach-Alsenborn area. People were founding music bands and circusses. Together they traveled to the United States to perform for a broad audience. In fall they went home to winter with their families while preparing new performances for the following year.
The presentation focuses on:
• Political and economical situation of the people
(Kuseler Land and Alsenborn)
• Musicians and circus artists – their lives and professions
• Planning how to get to the United States
• Circumstances of traveling and working
• Names of known Musikanten and Zirkus families
Prior to the presentation, there will be a short annual meeting to approve the Board of Directors candidates and the proposed next-year budget.
