The Strefling Migration (1700–1900)
Tracing the Steps of Michael, Greta, Karl, and Rosalee Strefling
The Strefling family lived in the lush hills of Saarland, Germany, in the early 18th century, where verdant landscapes and rich history defined their close-knit community. However, as Protestants in a predominantly Catholic region, they faced increasing religious persecution throughout the 1700s. This tension simmered beneath the surface, impacting their daily lives. Led by patriarch Michael Strefling, the family was known for their resilience and strong work ethic, tending to their modest farm with care. Despite their efforts, economic challenges mounted, and by the late 1700s, the soil they depended on became less fruitful. Family discussions often centered on the uncertain future.
Life in Saarland became increasingly difficult. Religious persecution and social ostracism affected their opportunities for trade and land ownership. Economically, the depleted soil led to dwindling crop yields, making it hard to sustain their livelihood. Despite Michael’s efforts to improve the soil, each year brought more challenges.
In 1763, amid these hardships, an invitation from Catherine the Great of Russia offered a glimmer of hope. The promise of land and religious freedom in Volhynia, Ukraine, was enticing. After much deliberation, Michael and his wife Greta decided to embark on a new journey, leaving behind everything they knew. The family prepared for their long and arduous journey, facing language barriers and cultural differences along the way. Traveling in a caravan with other families, they shared resources and support. Despite the challenges, their determination never wavered, spurred on by the promise of a new life. Upon arrival in Volhynia in the late 1760s, they were greeted by vast, fertile land. The community of German settlers quickly formed, building homes, establishing a church, and supporting one another. The Strefling farm flourished, providing a sense of stability and hope for the future.
Karl Strefling, born on February 6, 1844, in the picturesque countryside of Ukraine, was part of this resilient family. From a young age, he learned the value of hard work on the family farm. The Strefling homestead was a modest but thriving place, where they had cattle to milk, crops and gardens to tend, and a close-knit family that worked together to make ends meet. However, as a German family in Russia, they faced restrictions on land ownership, having to clear new ground each year as a form of payment to occupy the land.
As Karl grew older, he embraced the responsibilities of farm life, watching over the cattle, toiling in the fields, and supporting his family with unwavering dedication. Fluent in Russian, German, and Yiddish, Karl’s multilingual abilities also played a vital role in his interactions within the diverse community. The days were long and arduous, filled with the relentless tasks of rural life, but the Streflings found joy in simple pleasures — shared meals, laughter, and the beauty of the countryside. These moments of togetherness strengthened their bonds, helping them endure the challenges of their daily lives.
When the time was right, Karl found love with Rosalee Giesbrecht, who came from a nearby Jewish settlement in Ostroh. His decision to marry Rosalee led to his excommunication from their Volga German community, which strictly prohibited interfaith marriages. Despite this, they built a loving home and had nine children: Molly Strefling (1864, who died at birth), Amalia Strefling (1869–1969), Pauline Kugler (1870–1969), Charles E. “Afrom” Strefling (1873–1959), Reinhold Strefling (1875–1930), Christian Strefling (1876–1949), Anna Piltzke (1878–1964), Michael R. Strefling (1883–1965), and Adolph Strefling (1889–1957). Their home was filled with love and laughter, and Karl’s hard work provided for his growing family.
As the years passed, conversations turned toward migrating to America, the “land of milk and honey.” In March 1901, Karl and some of his children applied for visas. However, Karl was denied entry to the U.S. due to an eye condition, so he and his youngest son, Adolph, returned to Volhynia, while the others journeyed to America.
Tragedy struck in the late 1800s when Rosalee passed away at a young age, leaving Karl to shoulder the burden of raising their children alone. As a widower, he faced the challenges of caring for his young children while still managing the farm. But Karl was a resilient man, drawing strength from the love he had for his family. In the early 1900s, some members of the Strefling family decided to seek a better life in North America. In 1901, they made the journey to Canada, while Karl and his youngest son, Adolph, stayed behind in Ukraine. However, the yearning to reunite with his family and seek a new life in a foreign land grew stronger with each passing day.
Finally, in 1903, after being denied entry to the U.S., Karl and Adolph decided to join the rest of the family in Canada. Determined to unite the family, Karl crossed the border into the U.S. illegally. They settled in Sodus, Michigan, where they faced financial struggles and worked tirelessly to establish themselves. Despite his efforts, Karl’s request for citizenship was denied due to his illegal entry. His resilience and determination in the face of adversity provided a foundation for his family’s future in North America.
After arriving in Sodus, Michigan, Karl Strefling initially faced the challenges of immigrant life alone. His first marriage in America, marked by struggles and unmet expectations, ultimately ended in an annulment due to a “failure to consumate the marriage”. This difficult period tested Karl’s resilience, but it also reinforced his determination to create a stable life for himself and his children.
Undeterred by past hardships, Karl later found companionship with Emma Kugler, a fellow immigrant who shared his values and work ethic. Their marriage brought a renewed sense of hope and partnership. Together, they faced the challenges of building a life in a new land, supporting each other through adversity and triumph.
In their home, Karl and Emma fostered a nurturing environment filled with warmth and laughter. They instilled in their children the importance of perseverance, love, and unity — values that had been the cornerstone of the Strefling family for generations. Despite the difficulties they encountered, their marriage stood as a testament to the strength and resilience that defined Karl’s journey.
The lessons learned from both his marriages shaped Karl’s approach to family and life in America. His enduring spirit and commitment to his loved ones left an indelible mark on the Strefling legacy, inspiring future generations to embrace resilience and hope in the face of challenges.
Throughout his life, Karl’s experiences & values shaped the character of his children and future generations of the Strefling family. His journey from Ukraine to Canada exemplifies the challenges and sacrifices many immigrants faced in pursuit of a better life. Karl’s legacy lives on in the memories and stories passed down through his family - his strength and determination continuing to inspire us.
