Tag: German Heritage

The Enduring Legacy of German-American Inventors and Innovators

German Heritage Talk

Did you know that German-American inventors and innovators have changed the world? They made big leaps in many areas. These include science and technology, medicine, music, and how things are built.

German Heritage

  • German-American inventors and innovators have made significant contributions to science, technology, medicine, music, and infrastructure.
  • Their German heritage has shaped their breakthroughs and innovations, reflecting their enduring legacy in America’s growth and advancement.
  • German-American entrepreneurship and business innovations have also played a vital role in shaping the country’s economic landscape.
  • German immigrants brought their brewing expertise to America, establishing a rich brewing tradition that continues to influence the beer industry.
  • German-American scholars and educators have advanced knowledge in various academic disciplines, contributing to the fields of education and research.

German-American Contributions to Science and Technology

Many important inventions and ideas come from German-American thinkers. They have changed how we live and work. Their hard work has led to new breakthroughs in science, engineering, and technology. This has made a big difference in many fields.

Albert Einstein is a well-known example of this. Born in Germany, he moved to the U.S. because of political differences. His work on the theory of relativity and the photoelectric effect won him the Nobel Prize. Einstein’s ideas have greatly impacted physics and our knowledge of the universe.

“Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited, whereas imagination embraces the entire world, stimulating progress, giving birth to evolution.” – Albert Einstein

Another example is Nikola Tesla, who was from Croatia and later became a U.S. citizen. He is famous for his work on electricity and wireless communication. Tesla’s inventions set the stage for our modern technology.

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A Total Eclipse Adventure: Chasing the Shadow Across Texas Hill Country’s German Gems

German Heritage Talk

On April 8th, 2024, a celestial spectacle unlike any other will unfold across the skies of Texas. A rare total solar eclipse will plunge parts of the state into momentary darkness, creating a breathtaking natural phenomenon.

There is concern of cloudy conditions in the upcoming weather forecast on April 8th for much of the entire state of Texas. You may be wondering if you still must wear the special protective sunglasses because of the heavy cloud cover, and the answer is still yes.


Image by Great American Eclipse.com

Nestled within the eclipse path lies a string of charming towns steeped in German heritage, offering a unique blend of astronomical wonder and cultural immersion. This article charts your course through these Texas Hill Country gems, from Fredericksburg, bathed in totality, to nearby towns offering stunning partial views, all primed for an unforgettable eclipse experience.

Fredericksburg, Texas: Where Totality Reigns Supreme

Fredericksburg, a vibrant town founded by German immigrants in the mid-19th century, takes center stage on eclipse day.

This picturesque town, known for its rich heritage, delectable food, and welcoming atmosphere, will be the epicenter of totality, experiencing a complete blackout of the sun for a brief but awe-inspiring period.

  • Eclipse Viewing in Fredericksburg: The town is gearing up for the event, with organizations like the EclipseInFBGTX.com committee planning viewing parties, educational workshops, and special events. Expect the Main Street, lined with charming shops and restaurants, to be abuzz with excitement. Mark your calendars and secure your eclipse glasses well in advance, as Fredericksburg is likely to be a prime destination for eclipse chasers.

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A Spectacular Speckled Spectacle: The Story of the 10,000 Egg Tree and the Tradition of German Easter Trees

German Heritage Talk, Holidays & Celebrations

A family in Germany has a tradition of decorating a tree outside their home with 10,000 Easter eggs! It takes them about two weeks to complete this amazing feat.

Their tradition began in 1965 and has continued ever since. These colorful decorated trees, called Eierbaum, Osterbaum or Ostereierbäume in German, are a common sight in Germany during Easter.

See the original 10,000 easter egg tree decoration article by clicking here

Spring is a time of renewal, and for many cultures, Easter marks a joyous celebration of new beginnings. In Germany, the tradition of decorating trees with eggs takes this celebration to a whole new level. This article dives into the fascinating story of the 10,000 Egg Tree in Saalfeld, Germany, explores the history and variations of German Easter trees (Ostereierbäume), and provides tips for creating your own dazzling display and appreciating the art of intricately decorated eggs.

The Legendary 10,000 Egg Tree: A Feat of Dedication and Dazzling Display

Nestled in the heart of eastern Germany lies the town of Saalfeld, forever linked to a remarkable Easter tradition. For over 50 years, the Kraft family, led by Volker Kraft, meticulously adorned an apple tree in their garden with hand-painted Easter eggs. This wasn’t your average Easter basket decoration. By 2012, the tree boasted a staggering 10,000 eggs, a testament to the family’s dedication and the sheer joy of the tradition.

Sadly, due to storage limitations and the sheer volume of eggs, the Kraft family decided to stop adding to the tree in 2015. However, the legend of the 10,000 Egg Tree lives on, a reminder of the transformative power of Easter decorations and the enduring spirit of German traditions.

Beyond Saalfeld: Unveiling the History of German Easter Trees

The tradition of decorating trees with eggs in Germany, known as Ostereierbaum or Osterbaum, stretches back centuries. The exact origins remain unclear, but some historians believe it stems from pagan fertility rituals that were later incorporated into Christian Easter celebrations. Eggs, symbolizing new life and rebirth, became a natural choice for adorning trees during this springtime holiday.

Over time, the tradition evolved. Initially, real eggs were used, but as the practice gained popularity, hand-painted wooden eggs became more common. Today, Ostereierbäume come in all shapes and sizes, adorned with a dazzling array of colorful eggs, ribbons, and other decorations.

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Unveiling the Mythical World of Continental Giant German Rabbits

German Heritage Talk

Imagine a rabbit the size of a medium-sized dog, with a gentle temperament and a love for cuddles. That’s the reality of the Continental Giant rabbit, also known as the German Giant. These majestic creatures are not your average cottontails – they’re the undisputed heavyweight champions of the rabbit world.

This article dives into the fascinating world of Continental Giants, exploring their typical size, historical origins, presence in America, and suitability as pets.

Gentle Giants: Unveiling the Mythical World of Continental Giant Rabbits

For centuries, rabbits have captured our hearts with their fluffy fur, twitchy noses, and playful personalities. But some rabbit breeds take cuteness to a whole new level, pushing the boundaries of size and temperament.

Enter the Continental Giant, both German and Flemish Giants fall under this Continental breed category are giant breeds that can challenge our perception of what a rabbit size maximum can really be.

Size Matters: Unveiling the Continental Giant’s Impressive Stature

So, just how big are these gentle giants? Continental Giants are true behemoths in the rabbit kingdom. On average, they can reach a staggering length of 4 feet (1.2 meters) and weigh a hefty 15-25 pounds (7-11 kilograms). The Guinness World Record holder, Ralph, a Continental Giant from England, tipped the scales at a whopping 53 pounds (24 kilograms)!

Their impressive size is matched by their impressive appetites. These giants can munch through a surprising amount of hay, vegetables, and specialized pellets daily.

One of the very first publicized Giant Rabbits was “Herman the German.” He was massive. Of course rabbits in Germany are also known as “hasenpfeffer” a German Rabbit Stew. Yikes!

Many say that this “Herman the German” Giant Rabbit popularized Continental Giant Rabbits as adorable pets for anyone.

When Herman first appeared on YouTube years ago, he became an instant sensation. You had to wonder how much and what did he actually eat every day?

See the original article of Herman the Giant German Rabbit by clicking here

Despite their size, Continental Giants are renowned for their docile and affectionate personalities. Often referred to as “gentle giants,” they are known to be calm, friendly, and even enjoy being cuddled.

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From Humble Brewers to Beer Barons: The German Brewmasters Who Shaped American Beer

German Heritage Talk

The story of American beer is deeply intertwined with the story of German immigrants. In the mid-19th century, a wave of Germans arrived in the United States, bringing with them their love for a crisp, refreshing beverage called lager.

German Bier Barons of America

These skilled brewers, later dubbed “Beer Barons,” not only revolutionized the American beer industry but also left an indelible mark on the nation’s social and cultural landscape.

German Roots:

Brewing in Germany has a long and rich history dating back centuries. Monasteries were often the centers of brewing innovation, and by the 16th century, lager beers, brewed with bottom-fermenting yeast at cooler temperatures, became popular. These lagers were smoother and crisper than traditional ales, making them perfect for warmer climates.

Brewing Boom in America:

German immigrants faced many challenges upon arriving in America. Discrimination and competition were rampant, but their brewing skills offered a valuable opportunity.

Starting in the 1840s, German brewers began opening small breweries in major cities like Milwaukee, Chicago, and St. Louis. By the 1880’s, like many factory building, the brewery buildings grew in both size and production too. These breweries catered to the growing German immigrant population, but their delicious lagers soon attracted a wider audience.

Rise of the Barons:

While many German brewers operated small, local businesses, some rose to become industry giants. These individuals, later known as the “Beer Barons,” combined their brewing expertise with shrewd business acumen to build vast brewing empires.

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Groundhog Day: A Holiday with Deep German Roots

German Heritage Talk

Every February 2nd, a furry oracle emerges from its burrow, its shadow dictating the fate of winter’s grip. This, of course, is the legendary Groundhog Day, a uniquely North American tradition steeped in folklore and fun.

But did you know its roots lie not in snowy fields, but in the sun-drenched meadows of Germany? That’s right, Groundhog Day, with its quirky charm and weather predictions, bears the distinct paw prints of German immigrants. So, grab your lederhosen (or maybe just a warm coat) and burrow into the surprising history of this beloved holiday.

From Sunbeams to Shadows: The Germanic Origins

Imagine the scene: It’s the Christian holiday of Candlemas, February 2nd, in medieval Germany. Sunlight peeks through the clouds, casting hopeful beams on shivering peasants. They rejoice, for according to an ancient belief, sunshine on this day promises a harsh “second winter” with six more weeks of cold. But wait, what scurries across the sunlit path?

A badger, emerging from its winter slumber! If the badger sees its shadow, folklore warns, the extended winter is assured. This “Dachstag,” or Badger Day, held immense significance for farmers, their livelihoods hinging on the season’s whims.

Planting Traditions in Pennsylvania

Fast forward to the 18th and 19th centuries. German immigrants, particularly those settling in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, brought their customs and folklore across the Atlantic. However, the American landscape lacked badgers. Enter the resourceful groundhog, a close relative with similar hibernating habits. Presto! The tradition was reborn, with the furry Pennsylvanian cousin assuming the weather-predicting mantle.

The first documented mention of a groundhog forecasting winter dates back to 1840, and by the late 19th century, the custom had firmly rooted itself in American soil.

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Exploring America’s Top 25 Towns with German Influences

German Heritage Talk

The tapestry of American history is woven with threads from many cultures, and German immigrants have played a significant role in shaping its landscape. Their influence is evident not just in traditions and cuisine, but also in the names of countless towns scattered across the nation.

Today, we embark on a linguistic and cultural journey, exploring the origins and stories behind 25 American towns with charmingly German names:

1. New Braunfels, Texas: Founded in 1845 by a group of German nobles seeking religious freedom, New Braunfels (“New Braunfels”) retains its European charm with its historic architecture, lively festivals like Wurstfest, and the iconic Schlitterbahn waterpark.

2. Frankenmuth, Michigan: Nicknamed “Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth (“Franconian Courage”) boasts the world’s largest Christmas store, Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland. Founded in 1845 by Lutheran Bavarians, the town celebrates its heritage with Oktoberfests, traditional Bavarian meals, and lively polka music.

3. Karlsruhe, North Dakota: Established in 1883 by German settlers, Karlsruhe (“Charles’s Rest”) reflects its European roots in its Lutheran church, German restaurants, and traditional Maifest celebrations.

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Embracing German Traditions: January Celebrations in America with a Twist

German Heritage Talk, German Heritage USA, German-Americans

It’s almost January in Germany, and the party is just getting started in America. While Octoberfest might be the first thing that comes to mind when considering German-American celebrations, the truth is, the rich heritage of German culture offers unique celebrations throughout the year.

January, often painted as a quiet month after the holiday flurry, holds vibrant traditions in Germany that have found a warm welcome in the hearts of German-Americans. Prepare to delve into the magic of these winter festivities, where customs from the old world intertwine with American flair, creating a truly unique experience.

Neujahr: Ringing in the New Year with German Cheer

New Year’s Day, or Neujahr in German, is a national holiday in both Germany and the United States. While Americans raise champagne flutes at midnight, German-Americans often enjoy a different kind of bubbly cheer: Feuerzangenbowle. This fiery punch, prepared with rum-soaked sugar set ablaze, brings warmth and excitement to the festivities.

German-American communities often host Bleigießen, a traditional fortune-telling ritual using melted lead poured into water. The resulting shapes are interpreted to provide glimpses into the coming year, adding a touch of playful mysticism to the celebrations.

Heilige Drei Könige: Epiphany with a Caroling Twist

Epiphany, celebrated on January 6th, holds special significance for both religious and cultural reasons. In Germany, it’s known as Heilige Drei Könige (Three Kings’ Day), marking the arrival of the Magi. While it’s not a national holiday in the US, German-American communities keep the tradition alive with unique twists.

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Thomas Nast: A German-American Icon and the Father of American Cartooning

German American History, German Heritage Talk, German-Americans, Holidays & Celebrations

In the vibrant melting pot of American history, one cannot ignore the significant contributions made by individuals of diverse backgrounds. Among these notable figures is Thomas Nast, a German-American artist and political cartoonist who left an indelible mark on the landscape of American journalism during the 19th century.

This blog post explores the life, achievements, and enduring legacy of Thomas Nast from the unique perspective of his German heritage and the impact he had on shaping American political discourse and of course, Santa Claus himself.

Early Life and Immigration:

Thomas Nast was born on September 27, 1840, in Landau, in the Kingdom of Bavaria, now part of modern-day Germany. His family emigrated to the United States when he was just six years old, seeking refuge and a better life in the wake of political turmoil in Europe. The Nast family settled in New York City, where young Thomas’s artistic talents began to flourish.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence:

Nast’s artistic abilities did not go unnoticed. His passion for drawing led him to a position at Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper, where he quickly gained recognition for his skillful illustrations. However, it was at Harper’s Weekly, a prominent publication of the time, that Nast would truly make his mark.

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Harvesting Gratitude: Exploring the Rich Traditions of Erntedankfest, Germany’s Thanksgiving

German Heritage Talk, Holidays & Celebrations

We are already in the autumn month of November and if you think that you are just in time to learn about Germany’s Thanksgiving… sorry you missed it already.

Erntedankfest, the German equivalent of Thanksgiving, is a joyful celebration of the harvest and a time to express gratitude for the year’s bounty. While the exact date varies depending on the region, it is typically held in September or October and sometimes into early November.

In some parts of Germany, Erntedankfest falls on the first Sunday in October, often coinciding with the first Sunday following Michaelistag or Michaelmas (September 29th). In other regions, the celebration takes place on the first Sunday in November.

Just know that in the heart of Germany, nestled between the golden hues of September and October, lies a celebration that echoes with the same spirit of gratitude as its American counterpart.

Erntedankfest, known as Thanksgiving in Germany, is a festival that transcends time, weaving together ancient roots and modern traditions.

Join us on a journey through the bountiful fields of Erntedankfest, exploring its origins, traditions, and the vibrant tapestry of symbols that define this festive occasion.

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Backyard Biergarten – How To Create for Summertime Fun

Biergartens, German Heritage Talk, German Heritage USA, German-Americans, Germany, history

Creating your own Backyard Biergarten at your home can be tons of fun, especially when family, close friends and all your neighbors can share in the enjoyment of it all. 

beer-garden

Your own Backyard Biergarten is a real fun project to create and you really can make it as simple or elaborate as you may wish. After all, it is your backyard.

The first part of creating a viable Biergarten in your backyard is knowing the history of Biergartens in Germany. It is true that Biergartens originated in the 19th century in Munich, the capital of the German state of Bavaria.

The large breweries back then dug cellars in the banks near rivers to keep their beer cool during storage. During both the Spring and Summer months they would bring the beer out to enjoy under shade trees in a natural setting outdoors.

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GermanNationUSA – Your German Heritage Is Calling You…

German Festivals USA, German Genealogy, German Heritage Talk, German Restaurants USA, German-Americans, German-Surnames, GermanNationUSA, Oktoberfest - USA

About GermanNationUSA – Your German Heritage Is Calling You…

If you are of German ancestry, you will really come to love visiting our ever populating German Heritage website named, “GermanNationUSA”. It is here where you will always discover new and interesting stories, videos, pictures, commentary and facts regarding your German heritage. It is always a fun German Heritage related “Hub” to frequent!

German Heritage in the USA!

Your German Heritage Is Calling You...

www.GermanNationUSA.com

The GermanNationUSA website is designed to be informative, educational, entertaining and quite a captivating for anyone of German Heritage and other people with German related interest and passion.

The primary focal point for GermanNationUSA will certainly be structured around the presentation of German related heritage, tourism & commerce within the confines of the USA and parts of Canada too.

We will showcase everything from German restaurants, deli’s and bakeries to German influenced tourism destinations and special events like Oktoberfest all across the USA!

 

As one would observe it from a German-American perspective, it seems to be somewhat of an emotional destiny quest for thousands of German-Americans that are both curious and anxious to get back in touch with their Germanic roots to seek out and experience anything German… it’s truly a genuine attraction phenomenon.

Although GermanNationUSA is still in its early stages of development, consider it an ever evolving effort as its pages are continually being populated and updated with relevant fresh content, pictures, videos, music, widgets, advertising and multiple viral social features as well to ensure mass visitor traffic and visitor interactive participation too!

Come explore www.GermanNationUSA.com and The Guten Tag Times newsletter as we continue to expand on your German Heritage experience in the USA and create a lot of fun and entertainment doing it!

~ Prost!

GermanNationUSA is the Official Site of German heritage, tourism and commerce within the USA.

Discover Amerika… visit Germany stateside!

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Your German Heritage Is Calling You

German Genealogy, German Heritage Talk, GermanNationUSA

Your German Heritage Is Calling You

Real time German Genealogy is paying tribute to your ancestors legacy today!

Our flagship website GermanNationUSA, in combination with the efforts of our growing GermanHeritageUSA network of websites and social platforms, is bringing an awareness of German Heritage history & family legacy to America all starting with your individual family German-Surname.

Introducing German Surnames Legacy Quest!

German Surnames Legacy Quest
I’d  like to invite you to join myself and thousands of other Americans with  some German ancestry to celebrate your individual German Heritage through your own unique family SURNAME of German origin.  If you have some Irish, English, or Italian in you too… that’s okay.

Just what exactly defines a true definition of a German-American?

Is  it a German native coming to America eventually gaining citizenship… or an American (no matter what the percentage) with true German ancestry  bloodlines?

Definition:

German-American – an American who was born in Germany or whose ancestors were German.

German Americans (Deutschamerikaner)  are Americans of German ancestry. Americans of German ancestry form the  largest self-reported ancestry group in the United States outnumbering the Irish and English with just over 60 million people, or 17% of the
U.S. population.

We usually identify German-Americans, or people  of German ancestry typically from their last name, or surname. Often as  someone with a German Surname is introduced to someone else for the very first time, they typically listen intently to the pronounciation of
your surname and usually will respond with, “Oh, that’s a German last name, right?”

Your German Surname (or last name) is part of your family legacy – and we want your family name to be recognized and immortalized as well within a most innovative virtual archive that we are creating online as a sort of tribute to all German Surnames.

The  idea we’re proposing is to create is a virtual roadway comprised of thousands of cobblestone bricks & blocks that will ultimately lead to a massive virtual German Castle online. These cobblestone bricks & blocks will feature unique family German Surnames inscribed on them such as your own.

We have affectionately named this project our German Surnames Legacy Quest.

I’m sure that you have heard of a website that you can register and purchase a virtual star in our galaxy (with your name on it) from a star chart that has billions of choices to choose from.

It’s the same principal that we’re doing with German Surnames.

The  technology these days is such where you can easily do that now and basically refer to it at any time online to show your family and friends  your family German Surname Legacy Brick from your home pc, laptop or mobile device from anywhere in the world.

For us to create this virtual German CASTLE online, we need to hire the right team of graphic artist, software programmers and have the proper website infrastructure to handle the various programs and traffic demands to make it all happen seamlessly.

To properly fund this project we have created a crowdfunding page that explains things in greater detail plus shows you ways that you can help us spread the word to other people you may know of German Heritage. See our now active running campaign here:

http://www.indiegogo.com/German-Surnames

How exactly will this all work?

In  our German Surnames Legacy Quest project, we will inscribe your German Surname on a virtual online cobblestone brick or block that will immortalize your German Heritage family surname for the ages. At the same time it’ll also pay tribute to your own family surname legacy too.

This  virtual cobblestone roadway and Castle will only be the start of even greater things to come regarding our German Heritage related creation capabilities.

As  you think about your family line of ancestors, you have to remember that as German emmigrants to America… they helped shape this great country with only their name, personal sacrifices and hard work to create and pave a better future for their children and grandchildren for family generations to come.

Now it’s time to pay homage and tribute to their foresight and return the favor by honoring your family German Surname with a small contribution. You can even purchase a brick for their name too, in their honor.

The contribution starts as low as one dollar. It’s just a buck to get your family surname on the proverbial map.  Initially your name will be placed on a set-up listing on our flagship website at:

http://www.GermanNationUSA.com

The financial contributions recieved from our campaign will afford us financial flexibility to greatly accelerate our efforts to hire top notch designers and programmers to design, upgrade and enhance not only our German Surnames legacy page, but all of our other German Heritage related websites and social media platforms too.

All our sites will be networked together to promote our German Surnames Legacy Quest funding campaign. Again  all names collected in our database will be on a simple listing untill our staff of programmers get our virtual Castle operational and ready to  implement.

Got a German related business, organization, society  or club like a restaurant, bakery, school German club, festival event, meet-up group? Now you can also contribute on a much larger scale with a  “promotions block” and utilize that extra space as a marketing “pixel” tool to advertise or market yourself on.

Our initial goal is to attract a collective minimum of 100,000 people of German Heritage to register and contribute to our effort, however we also realize that there is such great interest of German Heritage across America, the potential here that we can realistically exceed that number our campaign  turns viral within our social platforms like facebook, google plus, twitter, youtube, pinterest and more.

Keep in mind that we really  have a substantial marketing base of 60 million people of German Heritage within the USA to promote to. That  number does not include tributes to family ancestors, German ex-patriots across the world or actual German natives that would like their German Surnames represented as well to perhaps connect with long
lost cousins that made their way across the pond.

It’s our intention to one day network all German related businesses, groups, organizations and special events (like Oktoberfest) within the USA together.

We  feel this exposure will bring about the German Heritage awareness, experience and  history of how our German ancestors helped shape America and inspired the countless family traditions for millions of present day Americans.

Your German Heritage Is Calling You!

~ Prost!  (cheers)

Brian Hingst

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Bavarian Fest welcomes people from Germany

German Festivals USA, German Heritage Talk

 

GermanHeritageUSA – Frankenmuth, MI comes alive this weekend with Bavarian Fest

Bavarian Fest welcomes people from Germany

“On Friday evening, June 8, Germans and hosts will attend German-American festivities in the Somme Garten at the Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival in Heritage Park featuring a Maibaum (Maypole) raising, music and dancing. On Saturday, June 9, …”

http://www.wnem.com/story/18730878/bavarian-fest-welcomes-people-from-germany

Great family time to get in touch with your German Heritage at the 54th annual Bavarian Festival in Frankenmuth, Michigan.

For more German Heritage USA information, visit:
www.GermanNationUSA.com

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The Pride of German Heritage in the USA

German Heritage Talk, GermanNationUSA

German Heritage in the USAWhen you grow up in the heartland of America with some little known German Heritage in your bloodline, you can’t but one day but notice a certain connection to the all the German immigrants that once migrated to the United States to start a new life, help build a great country and preserve some of their homeland traditions, values and cultural heritage.

What a life changing risk/reward opportunity proposition that must have been for the millions of German emigrants to make. The sacrifices to endure this change had to be monumental. The discovery of your German Heritage probably started with your own surname as a child as you inquired to your parents of its meaning and origin.

Shortly after came the association of German Heritage food dishes, as family recipes were handed down through the generations to continue the sentimental connection prompting more questions regarding your genealogical “roots” history. The family dinner table was always considered the centerpiece and cornerstone of family history and heritage because the dialog that taken place there over the years.

Did you know that to this day, science and common sense agrees that the quickest association to your brain is literally through your stomach?

When you find pleasure eating good food, then that will surely turn into a strong favorable emotion. If there are other attachments to your dining experience like ambiance, heritage and traditional history, then there is no turning back. The emotion is locked in for life.

Don’t know much about your German Heritage yet?

No worries because we created a website that may help you out on your discovery journey to get you up to speed. It’s called GermanNationUSA and is designed to become the official site of German Heritage related tourism and commerce within the USA.

The ever populating GermanNationUSA website is still quite young as we continue to update and upgrade it at every chance, putting emphasis on German Restaurants and food related businesses across America.

We are creating a huge data base so you can hopefully locate a German Restaurant in your immediate area, or if you are anytime away from home so you can experience a bit of Germany, in a eating kind of way.

Of course within GermanNationUSA you will discover how German Heritage is thriving all across America with news headline updates, dedicated sections on German food, German restaurants, German recipes, German festivals & events (like Oktoberfest), German cars, German clubs, societies and organizations, German gifts, German costumes, German genealogy, German music, German dance and notable German themed destinations within the USA.

Got a little German in you?

Why not start exploring your German Heritage today within GermanNationUSA and then with a visit to a local German Restaurant near you and start connecting your stomach to your brain – and get in touch with your German Heritage.

 

~ Prost!  (cheers)

Brian Hingst

For more German Heritage information within the USA… visit www.GermanNationUSA.com

Also “like” us on facebook at:
www.facebook.com/GermanHeritageUSA

 

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Backyard Biergartens – Got It Made in the Shade

German Heritage Talk, GermanNationUSA

What exactly is a Biergarten anyhow?

The generic term of “beer garden” (Biergarten) is identified as an open-air establishment where beer is served. The old traditional characteristics of a beer garden in Germany for instance includes good trees (with no sun patio umbrellas), some sturdy picnic table style wooden benches (not plastic garden tables or chairs), and a gravel bed or cobblestone.

The largest known traditional beer garden in the world is the Hirschgarten, located in Munich, Germany which actually seats around 8,000 people.

Of course in the United States, there are Biergartens that are springing up all over the place such as in German themed restaurants, cafes and bars and some in addition to… neighborhood backyards in almost every region of North America.

After all what you really only need to start a Biergarten environment in your own backyard is only a shade tree, patio, table and a few flowers right?

Pretty much.

The purpose of a biergarten in your backyard is not just another place to drink a cold one, although that can surely be a tangible objective. The main idea is to just start simple.

What you are really creating is a relaxation zone living space outdoors. It is a place where one can become tranquil, comfortable and cozy. It should become a designated area for fellowship and goodwill where family, friends and neighbors can gather and feel welcomed, at ease and accepted with warm friendliness and joviality.

The Germans have a one word description for this type of coziness feeling unlike anything in the English language… it’s called “Gemüetlichkeit” pronounced as ge•müt′lich•keit or sounds like  ga-moot-lick-kite. Very cool word.

Creating a Backyard Biergarten is not really that difficult to start and it can be as simple as you want it to be. In fact most homeowners start small with just a little area to work with initially and then they add something too it continually each year.

Here are a few tips to give you some ideas to think about to get you started…

  • If you don’t have a shade tree to start with in your backyard or patio area, plant one or purchase a patio umbrella to accompany your patio table large or small.
  • Install a flower bed nearby and if it’s a shady area, consider utilizing flowers that do well in partial to no shade areas like multi-colorful impatients or vinca minor and assorted lilies like a daylily or even water lily. Irises are always a given as they always add a nice touch within a home biergarten area. In partial shady areas to sunlit areas, it’s nice to incorporate a variety of daisies (including gerber daisies) that are available in different colors. Wave running petunia’s are a colorful choice and never forget to add in bright red geraniums. These look great in flower containers all by themselves. Additional flowers to consider for your biergarten include some daffodils, begonias or a variety of hosta plants in there too.
  • A regular patio table will due, however a long bench picnic style table enabled with a patio “German beer” umbrella would certainly set the themed ambiance from the start.
  • Add the little people within your biergarten. Garden Gnomes are wonderful conversation pieces. Many people give them names for fun.
  • Outdoor solar lighting around your Biergarden can be really cool and hanging patio lights and torches would create a great dusk time environment.
  • Do you have a spot for a nearby fish pond or fountain? The sound of running water is a great relaxer at the end of every day.
  • You have to have a grill set-up nearby too cook the brats. Maybe consider a cooler or tub full of ice to have nearby as well to keep the beverages cold.
  • German and/or Bavarian flags are nice accessories to display.
  • Don’t forget to add a custom made Bird House or two. A German “Cuckoo Clock” designed Bird Haus may be just the thing for added ambiance to your biergarten not to mention a beneficial living & dining resource for our feather friends.
  • Outdoor décor signs are a must to accentuate your new found outdoor oasis. You can now purchase several of these German themed outdoor signs or decor plaques online from select craftsmen within the USA as they are busily creating and getting them on their respective websites to market. I know for a fact that the demand is high because of its German heritage related. As a fun alternative to purchase these signs, it’s also quite fun to actually create, build and paint your own sign(s) with family and friends.Most certainly you would want to create colorful signs that would read like:

    • Biergarten
    • Willkommen
    • Gemütlichkeit Gardens
    • Gnome Sweet Home
    • Oktoberfest
    • Free Bier Tomorrow
    • Got A Little German In You?
    • Prost

A well thought out Backyard Biergarten can become a real conversation piece as it showcases your proud German Heritage to family members, neighbors and all visitors.

By creating your own Backyard Biergarten, you have the freedom to accentuate it in a variety of ways really any way you wish as you time and budget allows.. You are only limited by your imagination… and of course the outdoor living space to put it.

Just remember, once you get your backyard Biergarten all fixed up just the way you want it – you will have it made in the shade.

~ Prost!  (cheers)

Brian Hingst

For more German Heritage information within the USA… visit www.GermanNationUSA.com

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www.facebook.com/GermanHeritageUSA

 

 

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