The Falk Family

A New Life

August Carl Falk was born in Brandenburg, Germany in February 21, 1849 to Fredrich (Daniel) August Falk & Caroline Falk. According to records (volume 373-7I, VIII A 1Band 024) on July 13, 1870, August and his family departed Hamburg, Germany on a Dampsfschiff ship named Cimbria with Captain Hebich guiding them across the ocean to the port of Havre France and then on to, New York with the anticipation of starting a new life.

The shipping line carrying them was Hamburg -Amerikanische Packetfahrt-Actien-Gesellschaft flying the Deutschland flag. The journey to America was not an easy one, their accommodations were on the zwischendeck; which was the lowest level, essentially under the ship.

The ‘Falcks’; Fredrich (father), Caroline(mother), Mina (whilhelmina), Christe (Johanna Christina), August, Adolf, Augusta & Hermann (nephew) were all documented passengers.

The Artisan

August Falk was 21 years old in 1870 when he settled in Alma, Kansas with his parents, three sisters, brother and nephew, after arriving from Germany to start a new life. He immediately started his new life in Wabaunsee County assisting with stonemason jobs and grew his skills, business and contributions to the community over the next forty years. He was the proprietor of Alma Marble Works which was located on West 3rd and considered one of the most prolific stonemasons in the area, his work being highly sought after all across the county.

Check out the video to the right to learn more about August.

The Socialite Businesswoman

Melinda had a wicked sense of humor. The local newspaper printing that Melinda once heard someone say that “it was so hot outside you could fry an egg”, Melinda pulled out a frying pan, cracked an egg and waited to see if it would cook. 

As a small child of 4 years old, Melinda arrived in Wabaunsee County, Kansas with her family in 1856 as they moved from Warren, Indiana to pioneer in Indian Country.  During her childhood, Indians and settlers were still engaging in scuffles, Kansas became the 34th state and the Civil War commenced where she saw both of her brothers go off to defend the Union. It is no wonder that Melinda was of strong mind, had a wicked sense of humor and a sharp businesswoman.