Passport issued by Count Friedrich von Zeppelin
I am delighted to share with you this excellent document which I could only acquire with the support of a fellow collector. Another superb example of a collector’s collaboration. Count Friedrich von Zeppelin
The displayed passport is issued by Count Friedrich von Zeppelin (1807-1889), Minister of State, Supreme Chamberlain, Extraordinary Envoy of King Wilhelm I. of Württemberg at the Royal Austrian Court in Vienna and father of Ferdinand Count of Zeppelin – the inventor of the Zeppelin airships.
The passport has several visas on the reverse and is printed/written on heavy paper. The condition is just excellent and is initially signed by Friedrich von Zeppelin. A masterpiece! I knew a collector who had the passport of Ferdinand von Zeppelin (the inventor) in his collection. He claimed to have it sold for $8000. Having these two documents in one collection would be the perfect match. Count Friedrich von Zeppelin
The Passport
A large double-folio, thick paper. Issued in Vienna on 1 July 1828, just seven months before his death. The passport was issued to fifty-seven-year-old FRANZ VIERLINGER, a landowner. The document number is 52, and the passport was issued without charge (GRATIS), which is unusual for an “ordinary” man like Vierlinger. Besides the massive code of arms of the Kingdom of Württemberg on the upper margin, we can see the small code of arms of the house of Zeppelin at the lower margin, including the signature “Gr. von Zeppelin”.
The second signature is from the legation secretary HERMANN VON MASSENBACH (source: http://www.landesarchiv-bw.de/plink/?f=1-52784). Vierlinger’s passport bears eight visas from 1 July 1828 to 2 June 1829.
Unquestionably, a passport issued by such a prominent person and statesman is a fantastic document of German passport history and at the same time most rare. Happy to have it in my fine collection.
Friedrich Jerôme Wilhelm Karl Graf von Zeppelin, born on November 29, 1807, in Ulm, was a notable German court official and entrepreneur whose life spanned a period of significant political and technological change in Germany. His contributions, though less known compared to his famous son Ferdinand von Zeppelin (the inventor of the airship), played a crucial role in the socio-economic fabric of his time.
Born into an aristocratic family, Friedrich von Zeppelin’s early life was shaped by the values and responsibilities that came with his lineage. His father, Count Ludwig von Zeppelin, was a nobleman who instilled in him the importance of duty and service. This upbringing set the foundation for Friedrich’s career in public service and business. Count Friedrich von Zeppelin
Friedrich’s education was typical of the German aristocracy of the early 19th century, emphasizing classical studies and preparation for roles in the state administration. His formative years were marked by the Napoleonic Wars and the subsequent reorganization of the German states, which likely influenced his worldview and sense of duty towards his country.
Early Career
In his early career, Friedrich von Zeppelin served in various administrative capacities within the Kingdom of Württemberg. His work as a court official demonstrated his capability in managing complex bureaucratic tasks and navigating the intricacies of state politics. His dedication to his role earned him respect and recognition within the court, and he became known for his meticulous attention to detail and strong work ethic. Count Friedrich von Zeppelin
As an entrepreneur, Friedrich von Zeppelin ventured into several business endeavors, leveraging his noble status and connections. While details of his entrepreneurial activities are less documented, it is known that he was involved in land management and agricultural development, which were common pursuits for nobility at the time. His efforts in these areas contributed to the economic stability and development of his estates and the surrounding regions.
Friedrich’s life was also marked by personal commitment to his family. He married Amélie Françoise Pauline, Countess Macaire d’Hogguèr, with whom he had several children, including the future famed airship pioneer Ferdinand von Zeppelin. His role as a father and mentor to his children was significant, and he provided them with the education and opportunities necessary to succeed in their respective fields.
Later Life Count Friedrich von Zeppelin
The latter part of Friedrich von Zeppelin’s life coincided with a period of rapid industrialization and political change in Germany. The unification of Germany in 1871 and the subsequent economic boom presented both challenges and opportunities for the aristocracy. Friedrich navigated these changes with a blend of traditional values and adaptability, ensuring the continued prosperity of his family and estates.
Friedrich von Zeppelin passed away on March 25, 1886, in Emmishofen, leaving behind a legacy of service, entrepreneurship, and familial dedication. His life, though overshadowed by the achievements of his nephew Ferdinand, provides a glimpse into the world of German nobility during a transformative period in European history. His contributions to the administrative and economic spheres reflect the important roles played by the aristocracy in shaping the modern state.
In retrospect Count Friedrich von Zeppelin
Friedrich von Zeppelin’s life embodies the qualities of diligence, responsibility, and foresight. His impact, while subtle, was significant in laying the groundwork for future generations, including the pioneering achievements of his nephew in the field of aviation. Through his work and family, Friedrich von Zeppelin’s legacy endures as a testament to the enduring influence of the German nobility in the 19th century.
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