Germans in Franklin County: Their Role in Religion and Education
A look into German impact on daily life in Washington, MO, by Anna Liner, Adam Boll, Carter Kleekamp, Meagan Holtmeyer, and Olivia Williams
The presence of German immigrants made a lasting impact on Franklin County. It began when Gottfried Duden published the Report on a Journey to the Western States of North America in 1829 encouraging Germans to immigrate to Missouri to make a better life for themselves. His poetic descriptions of the abundance and opportunity in America inspired farmers, tradespeople, and intellectuals alike to settle down in Missouri’s Rhineland.
Since their arrival, the influence of Germans has been evident. German immigrants were the founders of small communities that would blossom into urban centers, such as in Washington, Missouri. From the churches formed by the first Germans in Franklin County to the establishment of educational centers that still stand today, their presence was significant.
Influence on Religion: St. Francis Borgia Catholic Church
Arguably the most prominent religious center in Franklin County, the St. Francis Borgia Church, can trace its roots back to the arrival of twelve Catholic German families. Families with surnames such as Buhr, Weber, and Bleckmann, arrived in Washington, Missouri, from municipalities like Belm and Ostercappeln, in Lower Saxony, Germany. Despite the long and difficult journey halfway across the world, they were still able to cling to their past by incorporating German gothic architecture and bricklaying into the church’s construction.
A Timeline of St. Francis Borgia
→ 1833: First parish was formed in Washington
→ 1838: First version of the church building was constructed
→ 1869: Final version (current) building built in the town center
In addition to being a place of worship and a symbol of German heritage, St. Francis Borgia played a pivotal role in education. As the city of Washington was being established, it was clear that the community was missing a school. What first began as the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1859 transformed into the Jesuit Hall Catholic school building in 1844. Later, the St. Francis Borgia high school was founded in 1935.
Influence on Education: German Educators
Religion was not the only thing German immigrants played a vital role in. During the 19th century, immigrants faced waves of discrimination from “native” Anglo-Saxon Americans who did not want them to have power or influence in the country. This added strain forced German-Americans to work harder in order to earn respect and their place in society.
A proper education was one of the best ways to achieve this. Thus, the Oakfield Academy was established in 1837. Frederick Steines, a renowned educator in America, as well as in Germany, was entrusted with the task of educating young German-Americans. He provided an education that was respectable in the eyes of Americans by teaching lessons on English, American history, and geography. Additionally, Steines ensured that his pupils retained their culture by teaching them the German language and history. In this way, education played an important role in helping the German heritage carry on for years to come.
Franklin County Today
From educating future generations to establishing religious centers, German immigrants were central to forming many communities in Franklin County. Today, their efforts continue to show in modern-day Washington.
Out of the many places of worship, Catholic parishes make up the majority in Washington. These parishes are still active in the community, educating students, running food pantries, engaging in volunteerism, and holding dinners and picnics for all.
