Primary Resources Archive

Friedrich Giehler Resources
Born 1864 in Germany, Friedrich Giehler immigrated to the United States in the 1880s, finally settling in Holyoke, MA. He became a naturalized citizen in 1896 at the age of 32.

The resources in this section provide a glimpse into his life and that of other immigrants by demonstrating the importance of education and occupational training.

Friedrich Giehler Graduation Certificate [PDF]
Friedrich Giehler graduated from the public school in Frankenberg, Hesse (now part of the Federal Republic of Germany) in February 1881, when he was 17. Giehler's completion of grammar school and training as a weaver probably made him very employable in Holyoke. See the English translation of this graduation certificate for more information about Giehler's education.

Friedrich Giehler Graduation Certificate Back [PDF]
Three questions are written in English on the back of Friederich Giehler's graduation certificate. Giehler likely wrote these questions in preparation for his journey to the United States.

Friedrich Giehler Graduation Certificate Translated [PDF]

Friedrich Giehler Apprenticeship Contract [PDF]
In 1874, when he was 11, Friedrich Giehler was apprenticed to a master weaver in Glauchau, Saxony (now part of the Federal Republic of Germany). In 1877, after three years as an apprentice, Giehler was named a journeyman in the Weaver's Guild. See the English translation of this apprenticeship certificate for more information about Giehler's education as a weaver.

Friedrich Giehler Apprenticeship Contract Translation [PDF]

 

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