Item 108.0 - Stumpp map of South Russia

<u>Introduction to Slides </u>
by J.P. Dyck (translated from German by Alf Redekopp)

1. Exactly 100 years ago when universal military service was introduced in Russia, approximately one third of the Mennonites (7,000) immigrated to Canada and the U.S.A. Those who remained back were offered an alternative service (Ersatzdienst). They chose forestry service. From 1880 onwards the young men served at first 4 year-terms, and then later 3 year-terms, planting and maintaining forests, working in tree nurseries and vineyards, etc. These are the men that we now know as the Foresteier, some present today, and whose photographs we will display first.
   On the far left of this map, we see the Vladimirov Forestry [camp], right next to Zagradovka [Mennonite Settlement]. Alt Berdyansk , Neu Berdyansk, and Altagier can be seen further down, not far from Molotschna Colony. Asov and Anadol are further east. In the west near Kherson, are Razyn, Schwarzwald, and Sherebkovo. Then, in the south, on the Crimea peninsula, approximately 2 or 3 dozen men would be used find [and control] the Phylaxera insects, found at the root of the vines in the vineyards of Crimea.
   
   There was another camp established later in the eastern region of Russia, but I do not have any information about it. Perhaps, someone present today, will be able to comment on that.
2. Alt Berdyansk
   Following the Molochnaya River south westward to [where is washing into the sea of Azov] , is Altagir on the east side of the river; Neu Berdyansk is on the west side of the Molochnaya River and Alt Berdyansk is approximately 9 werst north eastwardly of Melitopol.