These pages document the histories of hidden Jewish children Manfred Wildmann and Sylvia Birnbaum Wildmann and their families in Germany, France, and Belgium during World War II. Sylvia translated the wartime letters exchanged by Manfred’s family members as they attempted to survive in France. Later, she published her own memoirs about her childhood in Germany, escape to Belgium, and life as a hidden child.

Wildmann Letters 1943

  • Perpignan, April 8, 1943 – Your grandfather’s birthday (bar mitzvah)

    My dear Manfred,

    I heartily congratulate you on your birthday.  This one has a special meaning for you this year.  On your 13th year, you are entering the Jewish community as a full fledged member. (more…)

  • Perpignan, April 18, 1943

    Dear Children,

    It is true, this time the mail went fast.  I sent the letter out to you on Monday and on Sunday morning I already received your answer.

    I thought that you might have been sent to pick up children as you would then have been in the neighborhood.  If not, we just have to wait until we get together again.  You can’t get bored for sure with so many children running around.  Then you don’t have time to mope either.  I don’t do that either as one has to remain in good spirits.  Tomorrow is the beginning of Pessach.  We don’t know yet whether there will be a Seder.  (more…)

  • Perpignan, June 23, 1943

    Dear Children,

    My postcard acknowledges receipt of your package and I wish to thank you sincerely once more.  (more…)

  • Perpignan, August 3, 1943

    Dear Children,

    I obtained a little tracing wheel for you – Hauser got it for me – it is made of wood as there are none available made of steel.  (more…)

  • Perpignan, October 14, 1943

    Dear Children,

    The announced package arrived yesterday.  Since I received a notice, I got a permit from 2-6 PM and took a leisurely walk to the railroad station and then to Trudi who wasn’t home.  (more…)

  • Perpignan, November 2, 1943

    Dear Children,

    I received Margot’s letter last Wednesday.  As I had just written to you, I immediately answered Margot to acknowledge the package received thanks to Miss Stern.  (more…)

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