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There once was a great thread on here detailing various German Immigrant songs. To add to that, I recently found the following quote in my avid search for "Turner Rifles" history. I think it is rather interesting.
General Butler, inspecting the 20th NY Regt. "United Turner Rifles" in 1861, mostly of NYC, and 99.9% German, commented:
"The melting tones of the zither rang through the air, and in the course of the evening a concert of German music entertained the guests." (True Sons of the Republic - Martin W. Ofele).
The Twentieth New York Regiment of Turners, was apparently known, amongst other German units, for thier singing. The Turner Societies often had Singing Clubs within their "verein", and my current Turner Club on Long Island was founded as a Singing Society in the 1870s.
I found another source recently that detailed at least one of the songs they sang, but I cannot recall where it is right now (sorry the month of May is rough on us teacher-folk!).
What I find most appealing about Butler's observation is the reference to the "zither", or German-like dulcimer. I suppose early on in the war, and the 20th's position in camp, allowed for this instrument, but a zither (smaller sized) could fit in a soft pack, although why you would want to carry it?
Funny little history...
General Butler, inspecting the 20th NY Regt. "United Turner Rifles" in 1861, mostly of NYC, and 99.9% German, commented:
"The melting tones of the zither rang through the air, and in the course of the evening a concert of German music entertained the guests." (True Sons of the Republic - Martin W. Ofele).
The Twentieth New York Regiment of Turners, was apparently known, amongst other German units, for thier singing. The Turner Societies often had Singing Clubs within their "verein", and my current Turner Club on Long Island was founded as a Singing Society in the 1870s.
I found another source recently that detailed at least one of the songs they sang, but I cannot recall where it is right now (sorry the month of May is rough on us teacher-folk!).
What I find most appealing about Butler's observation is the reference to the "zither", or German-like dulcimer. I suppose early on in the war, and the 20th's position in camp, allowed for this instrument, but a zither (smaller sized) could fit in a soft pack, although why you would want to carry it?
Funny little history...
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