Gerda Kolb: The Brave Journey of a Woman in 1937

gerda kolb journey brave
Gerda Kolb, born as Gerda Ostermeyer in 1912 in Koenigsberg, East Prussia, was a woman who braved the odds during a time of great change and turmoil. Her passport, issued in 1936, reveals her journey to various countries and territories in Asia, as she sought refuge from the Nazi regime.

The Mystery of Gerda’s Passport

Gerda’s passport was not signed, adding to the mysterious nature of her travels. Despite the uncertain times, Gerda secured a temporary US visa in September 1936 and a Chinese visa in December 1936. Her passport shows evidence of her visit to China on January 3rd, 1937 and her arrival in Hong Kong on April 18th, 1937, stamped by the local police.

A Journey Filled with Uncertainty gerda kolb journey brave

In 1937, Gerda embarked on a journey that took her to various countries and territories, including stops in Hong Kong and Colombo. However, her travels took a surprising turn as her passport reveals border stamps from Italy and Austria in May 1937. The last stamp on her passport was made at the German border in Kufstein, Austria on May 4th, 1937, when she re-entered Germany.

The Possibility of Jewish Descent

Gerda’s maiden name, Ostermeyer, suggests the possibility of her being Jewish. With the rise of the Nazi party, Jews were facing increased persecution, and Gerda’s travels to various countries and territories in Asia may have been her attempt to escape the Nazi regime and find a safe haven. Unfortunately, it looks like she failed to reach America. gerda kolb journey brave

A Testimony to Resilience

As the world moved closer to World War II, international travel became increasingly difficult, but Gerda’s ability to obtain visas to multiple countries, including the United States, during this time is a testament to her resourcefulness and resilience.

Gerda’s passport serves as a fascinating historical artifact, offering a window into the past and a glimpse into the experiences of one person during a time of great change and turmoil. Her journey reminds us of the unwavering strength of the human spirit and the persistent desire to escape persecution and find safety.

Fazit gerda kolb journey brave

Gerda Kolb’s journey was likely filled with uncertainty and fear, but her determination and bravery in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to us all. Her passport serves as a reminder of the bravery of those who fled persecution and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.