The German School of Hermann, MO
What is the German School?
Located in downtown Hermann, Missouri, the German school served as a reminder of the German culture in rural communities in Missouri. Hermann, and Gasconade County in general, was a refuge for many German immigrants in the mid-1800s and the German culture flourished in the area. Johann Bohlken, a German immigrant, designed and built this colonial style schoolhouse in 1871. The iconic clock tower was actually a later addition to the original building, added in 1890, so the townspeople would not have to come to the school asking what the time was. This school provided education in both the English and German language. Prior to the construction, there were two schools in Hermann, one English and one German. Each of the school boards agreed to unite the two schools and utilize each language for more efficient use of tax dollars.
Another purpose behind its construction was to carry on the German language and traditions, while also becoming acquainted with and learning the English language. Essentially, the school is a compromise between English and German cultures.
Why Were So Many Germans in Hermann?
Political turmoil in the majority of Europe, but especially Germany through the 18th century led many people to contemplate the future of their governments. Gottfried Duden, an optimistic explorer, set out on an adventure to America from Germany in hopes to find new land for German immigrants to settle. Once he reached the states, he gained a particular fondness for the area around the Missouri River. Encompassed by this area was the land that came to be known as Hermann. Duden was especially struck by the comparability of the topography and geography of the area to Germany. His colorful descriptions of the land in his letters convinced many Germans to immigrate to the Midwest.
The term “chain migration” used by historian Walter Kamphoefner, can be used to explain the phenomenon of families of immigrants telling relatives in the German homeland of their heartening accounts of the “New World.” Ultimately, this style of migration is the reason for the establishment of Hermann.
The German Contribution to Equality in Missouri
One of the last major German migrations occurred primarily in 1848. With this wave of new immigrants came radical ideas that altered the political environment in Missouri. German newspapers throughout the state professed their radical Abolitionist ideals that clashed with many non-German ideals. Once the Civil War began, the German force was realized during the Union defense of St. Louis, a victory that gave the Union primary control of the northern segment of the Mississippi River. This victory helped to fuel Union troops until the Union eventually won the war. Following the ratification of the 13th Amendment, most German influence in the political world disappeared as most Germans turned to improve their own financial conditions.
How Did Germans Spend Their Time After the Civil War?
In small towns, such as Hermann, many in the German population relied on their extensive knowledge of brewing and wine culture to make a living. The German country features the habit of drinking as a fundamental aspect of culture, and this culture was displayed in these small, German towns. Wine culture and gardens served as a fun getaway for everyday life or even a welcome family outing.
The German School Today
The German School continued to focus on the education of children in both German and English languages to preserve the German culture while learning the American culture until 1955. In 1955, Historic Hermann Inc. repurposed the school to a museum which became an archive for many artifacts from the area, many of which are of German origin. Attached is a map where you can visit this Historic Hermann Museum as well as many other attractions in the area.
