Stix Family of Demmelsdorf, Bavaria

I am very fortunate in my work to have such great access to some incredible genealogical records. Of the many records I have at my fingertips, I am constantly amazed by the information found in the collections of Malcolm Stern.

In the collection of donated records (FHL film #1013431) is included the history of the Stix family. Solomon Stix was born 2 Apr 1788, in Demmelsdorf, Bavaria a town about an hour from Bamberg.. He was the son of Cashman Solomon and his wife Relia, both also of Demmelsdorf. In 1813, as with many Jews he took a surname. He took the name of Stix.

On the second of November, 1815, Solomon married Deborah Cohen in Schneidach, Bavaria, her hometown. To this marriage were born 10 children. One of these, Aaron, became the Rabbi of Demmelsdorf. As times were tough in Germany and with so many mouths to feed, it couldn't have been an easy time to have such a large family, so many of the children started making their way to America in the 1830's. Eventually the parents and remaining children joined them in 1844, most eventually settling in Ohio.

As the history is read, something stands out. Solomon's work ethic must have been an incredible example to his family. The story is told how late in his life the children encouraged him to "desist from his labors and let us help provide for you and mother". His reply was simple and to the point. He said " As long as I have the strength, I shall support my wife and myself".

Truly, a remarkable family, one of many, who established in us, great habits and determination for generations to follow.

The records of this family are now being added to The Jews of Europe and will be available there soon.

William Klingenstein 1833-1916

Sometimes as we do research for our families, it is the simplest comments that tell us so much. In Willesden Cemetery in London, the headstone of William Klingenstein, has one of those simple tributes.

It states, "His life was happy...it was filled with useful service".

Can there be any finer tribute to anyone, that to have been known for serving others. What makes this even more impressive is what we learn as we study the man. William Klingenstein was born in Miltenberg, Bavaria in 1833, the son of a local master tailor. He eventually moved to London and founded William Klingenstein and Co. Ltd., Havana Cigar Importers. He was successful in this work, becoming president of the Tobacco traders Benevolent Association.

The 1911 Census, from www.findmypast.com shows William living with his sister and nephew.

In 1903 the third synagogue in Miltenberg, cost 44,000 gold marks to build. 12,000 of this was donated by William Klingenstein. Miltenberg made him an honorary citizen in 1911. He died on 17 Feb 1916. On the 21st of April 1916 there appeared in the Jewish Chronicle an account of his charitable bequests. It is of no surprise that a man who found happiness in life through serving others, would continue to serve others after his death. What an incredible legacy that he leaves behind.

I thank Jeanette Rosenberg for bringing this man, and this monument to my attention. It doesn't surprise me either that she is part of this family, as she spends so much time serving others as well.

The records of William Klingenstein can be found in the Jews of the British Isles.