holocaust butterfly

…….I never saw another .I never saw another butterfly…butterfly…

Children’s Drawings and Children’s Drawings and Poems from Terezin Poems from Terezin

Concentration Camp, Concentration Camp, 1942-19441942-1944

Eli Bachner Saad BashirFranta Bass Emily Blume

Anna BuchananJosef Bauml Rhea ChatterjeeJiri Beutler Micah Collins-ThomasMilan Biennenfeld Reagan DysonFrantisek Brozan Nathan FechheimerEva Bulova Anna Kate Foshee

Taylor GriffithRuth Cechova Mason T. JonesPetr Fischl William Leverett

Liana Franklova Will MillerPavel Friedman Alice PeckMarika Friedmanova Evan ShirreffsGabriela Freiova Virginia WeirHana Grunfeldova Aaron Wilson

Hanus Hachenburg Wanangwa ZgamboElly Hellerova Aidan Bell

Sam BrewsterJana Hellerova Morgan Campbell

Eva Heska Haidee ChenWill Divers

Petr Holzbauer Caroline Doherty

Irena Karpelesova Richard FergusonHana Erika Karplusova Maisha ImamHana Kohnova Joe JordanHanus Klauber Raleigh LumpkinHana Kohnova Matthew MastandreaMiroslav Kosek S.L. MitchellMarianna Langova Erik NorstedtNina Ledererova Seamus Rosenberg

Ana Sherer-EstevezAnna Lindtova Maria SilvaHana Lissauova Aurora BuntenHelena Mandlova Helen ChenKurt Mayer Lewis ClarkeEva Meitnerova Caroline ColleyJosef Novak Mary Glenn DillardKitty Marketa Passerova Caroline FennoEva Pickova Isabel GodfreyDita Polachova Morgan GraceJosef Pollak Josh HavensRuth Schacterova Nathan IyerHelena Schanzerova Steven JacksonEva Shurova Kathryn Johnson

Mason B. Jones

Nely Silvinova Alexander LarsenFleming Smith

Pavel Sonnenschein Jason PapadopoulosSona Spitzova Alex Waugh

Sam ThompsonAlena Synkova Aidan BlackErika Taussigova Savannah Brock

Tommy WardSonja Waldsteinova Alette DuanPetr Weidmann Morgan FergusonHannus Weinberg Adam HearnDoris Weiserova Suzanne HerrinAlfred Weisskopf Hayden HudsonHelga Weissova Hayden Lanzilotta

Ilona Weissova Grace McWhorterZuzana Winterova Hunter McWilliams

Caroline RobinsonEva Wollsteinerova Dominique Rucker

Duncan Sligh

Eli Bachner (male) was born in Ostrawa on May 20, Eli Bachner (male) was born in Ostrawa on May 20, 1931 and was deported from Prague to Terezin on 1931 and was deported from Prague to Terezin on

February 21, 1942. He wrote a children’s rhyme in pen February 21, 1942. He wrote a children’s rhyme in pen on a German office form.on a German office form.

““HouseHouse”A pasted collage on an office form by Dita Valentikova”A pasted collage on an office form by Dita Valentikova

Man Proposes, God DisposesMan Proposes, God Disposes

I.I.Who was helpless back in Who was helpless back in

Prague,Prague,And who was rich before, And who was rich before, He’s a poor soul here in Terezin,He’s a poor soul here in Terezin,His body’s bruised and sore.His body’s bruised and sore.

II.II.Who was toughened up before,Who was toughened up before,He’ll survive these days.He’ll survive these days.But who was used to servants But who was used to servants Will sink into his grave.Will sink into his grave.

Koleba (miroslav Kosek, Hanus Koleba (miroslav Kosek, Hanus Lowy, Bachner)Lowy, Bachner)

26. II. 194426. II. 1944

Franta Bass was born in Brno on September 4, 1931. Franta Bass was born in Brno on September 4, 1931. Five of his poems are included in this volume.Five of his poems are included in this volume.

““Dwellings in TerezinDwellings in Terezin,” pencil drawing done on gray cardboard by Josef Novak,” pencil drawing done on gray cardboard by Josef Novak

The GardenThe Garden

A little garden,A little garden,

Fragrant and full of roses.Fragrant and full of roses.

The path is narrowThe path is narrow

And a little boy walks along And a little boy walks along it.it.

A little boy, a sweet boy,A little boy, a sweet boy,

Like that growing blossom.Like that growing blossom.

When the blossoms come to When the blossoms come to bloom,bloom,

The little boy will be no The little boy will be no more.more.

Franta BassFranta Bass

Josef Bauml was born on March 13, 1931. He was Josef Bauml was born on March 13, 1931. He was deported to Terezin from Prague on July 16, 1942. deported to Terezin from Prague on July 16, 1942.

Josef’s creation is a pencil and colored pencil of people Josef’s creation is a pencil and colored pencil of people at work.at work.

Work, completed in pencil and colored pencil on paper by Josef Bauml.

Everything leans, like Everything leans, like tottering, hunched old tottering, hunched old women.women.

Every eye shines with fixed Every eye shines with fixed waitingwaiting

And for the word “when?”And for the word “when?”

Here there are few soldiers.Here there are few soldiers.Only the shot-down birds tell Only the shot-down birds tell

of war.of war.

You believe every bit of news You believe every bit of news you hear.you hear.

The buildings now are fuller,The buildings now are fuller,Body smelling close to body,Body smelling close to body,And the garrets scream with And the garrets scream with

light for long, long hours.light for long, long hours.

This evening I walked This evening I walked along the street of death.along the street of death.On one wagon, they were On one wagon, they were taking the dead away.taking the dead away.

Why so many marches Why so many marches have been drummed here?have been drummed here?

Why so many soldiers?Why so many soldiers?

ThenThenA week after the end,A week after the end,Everything will be empty Everything will be empty here.here.A hungry dove will peck A hungry dove will peck for bread.for bread.In the middle of the street In the middle of the street will standwill standAn empty, dirtyAn empty, dirtyHearse.Hearse.

AnonymousAnonymous

The Closed TownThe Closed Town

Jiri Beutler was born Jiri Beutler was born on August 9, 1932. on August 9, 1932. He was deported to He was deported to

Terezin on Terezin on September 18, 1942. September 18, 1942.

Jeri completed a Jeri completed a pencil drawing of a pencil drawing of a Nazi threatening a Nazi threatening a

Jew.Jew.

TerezinTerezin

That bit of filth in dirty walls,That bit of filth in dirty walls,And all around barbed wire,And all around barbed wire,And 30,000 souls who sleepAnd 30,000 souls who sleepWho once will wakeWho once will wakeAnd once will seeAnd once will seeTheir own blood spilled.Their own blood spilled.

I was once a little child,I was once a little child,Three years ago,Three years ago,That child who longed for other That child who longed for other worlds.worlds.But now I am no more a childBut now I am no more a childFor I have learned to hate.For I have learned to hate.I am a grown-up person now,I am a grown-up person now,I have known fear.I have known fear.

Bloody words and a dead day then,Bloody words and a dead day then,That’s something different than That’s something different than bogeymen!bogeymen! continued on next slide….continued on next slide….

But anyway, I still believe I only sleep today,That I’ll wake up, a child again, and start to laugh and play.I’ll go back to childhood sweet like a briar rose,Like a bell that wakes us from a dream,Like a mother with an ailing childLoves him with aching woman’s love. How tragic, then, is youth that livesWith enemies, with gallows ropes,How tragic, then for children on your lapTo say: this for the good, that for the bad.Continued on next slide…

Somewhere, far away out there, childhood sweetly sleeps,

Along that path among the trees,There o’er that houseThat was once my pride and joy.There my mother gave me birth into this

world So I could weep…

In the flame of candles by my bed, I sleepAnd once perhaps I’ll understandThat I was such a little thing,As little as this song.

These 30,000 souls who sleepAmong the trees will wake,Open an eyeAnd because they seeA lot

They’ll fall asleep again…

Hanus HachenburgIX, 1944

Milan Biennenfeld was born in Prague on March 28, Milan Biennenfeld was born in Prague on March 28, 1930 and deported to Terezin on October 24, 2942. He 1930 and deported to Terezin on October 24, 2942. He

has 2 pencil sketches included in the collection of has 2 pencil sketches included in the collection of children’s art from Terezin, where he was a member of children’s art from Terezin, where he was a member of class 10. He lived in boys’ dormitory II at Terezin. His class 10. He lived in boys’ dormitory II at Terezin. His

piece below is entitled “Study of Leaves,” a black piece below is entitled “Study of Leaves,” a black watercolor done on tinted paper.watercolor done on tinted paper.

CampfireCampfire

Here I sit on a rockHere I sit on a rockIn front of the campfire.In front of the campfire.One branch after another is snatched by One branch after another is snatched by

the fire.the fire.Into the darknessInto the darknessThe forest recedes.The forest recedes.

Fire makes one reflect…Fire makes one reflect…Terezin is all I think about.Terezin is all I think about.But now memories gather ‘round meBut now memories gather ‘round meLike the falling leaves.Like the falling leaves.

Fall is here.Fall is here.The leaves turn yellow on the trees,The leaves turn yellow on the trees,The campfire dies out.The campfire dies out.My thoughts are far from here,My thoughts are far from here,Somewhere far,Somewhere far,Where integrity lives.Where integrity lives.

It lives in my friend.It lives in my friend.Now I think of her.Now I think of her.Memories gather ‘round meMemories gather ‘round meLike the falling leaves.Like the falling leaves.

A. LindtovaA. Lindtova

Frantisek Brozan was born on December 13, 1932, in Stankov Frantisek Brozan was born on December 13, 1932, in Stankov and deported to Terezin on November 30, 1942. He is and deported to Terezin on November 30, 1942. He is

represented in this collection by three drawings and a pencil represented in this collection by three drawings and a pencil sketch. He lived in house number 10 at Terezinsketch. He lived in house number 10 at Terezin

Sketch of a Child’s Hand, drawn by Frantisek on the reverse side of a pencil sketch.

TearsTears

And thereafter And thereafter come….come….

tears,tears,without themwithout themthere is no life.there is no life.Tears---Tears---inspired by griefinspired by grieftearstearsthat fall like rain.that fall like rain.

Alena SynkovaAlena Synkova

Eva Bulova was born on July 12, 1930 at Revnice near Prague Eva Bulova was born on July 12, 1930 at Revnice near Prague and brought to Terezin on September 12, 1942. She is and brought to Terezin on September 12, 1942. She is

represented by 12 drawings. Her most interesting drawing is represented by 12 drawings. Her most interesting drawing is a collage called “Portrait of a Woman with Long Hair.” At a collage called “Portrait of a Woman with Long Hair.” At

Terezin, she lived in house number 28.Terezin, she lived in house number 28.

Detail of a watercolor entitled Butterflies, painted on the reverse side of a piece of glossy yellow paper.

DuskDusk

The dusk flew in on the wings of The dusk flew in on the wings of evening…evening…

From whom do you bring me a From whom do you bring me a greeting?greeting?

Will you kiss my lips for him?Will you kiss my lips for him?How I long for the place where I How I long for the place where I

was born!was born!

Perhaps only you, tranquil dusk,Perhaps only you, tranquil dusk,know of the tears shed in your lapknow of the tears shed in your lapfrom eyes that long to seefrom eyes that long to seethe shade of palms and olive treesthe shade of palms and olive treesin the land of Israel.in the land of Israel.

Perhaps only you will understandPerhaps only you will understandthis daughter of Zion,this daughter of Zion,who weepswho weepsfor her small city on the Elbefor her small city on the Elbebut is afraid ever to return to it.but is afraid ever to return to it.

AnonymousAnonymous

Ruth Cechova was born in Brno on April 19, 1931 and brought Ruth Cechova was born in Brno on April 19, 1931 and brought to Terezin on March 19, 1943. She has 13 more drawings, to Terezin on March 19, 1943. She has 13 more drawings,

pastel, watercolors and pencil sketches included in this pastel, watercolors and pencil sketches included in this collection most of which are dated between April and June collection most of which are dated between April and June

1944. At Terezin, Ruth lived in house number CIII and was a 1944. At Terezin, Ruth lived in house number CIII and was a member of Group I. Below is a watercolor entitled member of Group I. Below is a watercolor entitled Garden, Garden,

completed on tinted paper.completed on tinted paper.

On a Sunny EveningOn a Sunny Evening

On a purple, sun-shot eveningOn a purple, sun-shot eveningUnder wide-flowering chestnut treesUnder wide-flowering chestnut treesUpon the threshold full of dustUpon the threshold full of dustYesterday, today, the days are all like these.Yesterday, today, the days are all like these.

Trees flower forth in beauty,Trees flower forth in beauty,Lovely, too, their very wood all gnarled and oldLovely, too, their very wood all gnarled and oldThat I am half afraid to peerThat I am half afraid to peerInto their crowns of green and gold.Into their crowns of green and gold.

The sun has made a veil of goldThe sun has made a veil of goldSo lovely that my body aches.So lovely that my body aches.Above, the heavens shriek with blueAbove, the heavens shriek with blueConvinced I’ve smiled by some mistake.Convinced I’ve smiled by some mistake.The world’s abloom and seems to smile.The world’s abloom and seems to smile.I want to fly but where, how high?I want to fly but where, how high?If in barbed wire, things can bloomIf in barbed wire, things can bloomWhy couldn’t I? I will not die!Why couldn’t I? I will not die!

1944 Anonymous1944 AnonymousWritten by the children in Barracks L318 and Written by the children in Barracks L318 and

L417, ages 10-16 years.L417, ages 10-16 years.

Petr Fischl was Petr Fischl was born in Prague on born in Prague on

September 9, September 9, 1929 and 1929 and

deported to deported to Terezin on Terezin on

December 8, December 8, 1943. His work is 1943. His work is lyrical prose, but lyrical prose, but his description of his description of

Terezin is Terezin is exceptional for its exceptional for its

accuracy and accuracy and sober tone.sober tone.

““Guard With a Stick,” Guard With a Stick,” collage of paper cut collage of paper cut from an office ledger by Sona Spitzova.from an office ledger by Sona Spitzova.

We got used to standing in line at seven o’clock We got used to standing in line at seven o’clock in the morning, at twelve noon, and again at seven in the morning, at twelve noon, and again at seven o’clock in the evening. We stood in a long queue with o’clock in the evening. We stood in a long queue with a plate in our hand, into which they ladled a little a plate in our hand, into which they ladled a little warmed-up water with a salty or a coffee flavor. Or warmed-up water with a salty or a coffee flavor. Or else they gave us a few potatoes. We got used to else they gave us a few potatoes. We got used to sleeping without a bed, to saluting every uniform, not sleeping without a bed, to saluting every uniform, not to walk on the sidewalks and then again to walk on to walk on the sidewalks and then again to walk on the sidewalks. We got used to undeserved slaps, the sidewalks. We got used to undeserved slaps, blows, and executions. We got accustomed to seeing blows, and executions. We got accustomed to seeing people die in their own excrement, to seeing piled-up people die in their own excrement, to seeing piled-up coffins full of corpses, to seeing the sick amid dirt and coffins full of corpses, to seeing the sick amid dirt and filth and to seeing the helpless doctors. We got used filth and to seeing the helpless doctors. We got used to it that from time to time, one thousand unhappy to it that from time to time, one thousand unhappy souls would come here and that, from time to time, souls would come here and that, from time to time, another thousand unhappy souls would go away…..another thousand unhappy souls would go away…..

From the prose of fifteen-year-old Petr FischlFrom the prose of fifteen-year-old Petr Fischl

Liana Franklova was Liana Franklova was born on January 12, born on January 12,

1931 and deported to 1931 and deported to Terezin on December 5, Terezin on December 5,

1941. Twenty of her 1941. Twenty of her drawings are included in drawings are included in the collection, most of the collection, most of

them pastel and them pastel and watercolors, dating watercolors, dating

between March and May between March and May 1944. Liana’s drawing is 1944. Liana’s drawing is entitled “Serving Meals” entitled “Serving Meals” which covers both sides which covers both sides of a piece of wrapping of a piece of wrapping paper and is drawn in paper and is drawn in pencil. In Terezin, she pencil. In Terezin, she lived in house 13 and lived in house 13 and belonged to Group IV.belonged to Group IV.

““Queue For FoodQueue For Food””Details from a drawing entitled Details from a drawing entitled

“Serving Meals” which covers “Serving Meals” which covers both sides of a piece of both sides of a piece of wrapping paper and is drawn wrapping paper and is drawn in pencil.in pencil.

We got used to standing in line at seven o’clock We got used to standing in line at seven o’clock in the morning, at twelve noon, and again at seven in the morning, at twelve noon, and again at seven o’clock in the evening. We stood in a long queue with o’clock in the evening. We stood in a long queue with a plate in our hand, into which they ladled a little a plate in our hand, into which they ladled a little warmed-up water with a salty or a coffee flavor. Or warmed-up water with a salty or a coffee flavor. Or else they gave us a few potatoes. We got used to else they gave us a few potatoes. We got used to sleeping without a bed, to saluting every uniform, not sleeping without a bed, to saluting every uniform, not to walk on the sidewalks and then again to walk on to walk on the sidewalks and then again to walk on the sidewalks. We got used to undeserved slaps, the sidewalks. We got used to undeserved slaps, blows, and executions. We got accustomed to seeing blows, and executions. We got accustomed to seeing people die in their own excrement, to seeing piled-up people die in their own excrement, to seeing piled-up coffins full of corpses, to seeing the sick amid dirt and coffins full of corpses, to seeing the sick amid dirt and filth and to seeing the helpless doctors. We got used filth and to seeing the helpless doctors. We got used to it that from time to time, one thousand unhappy to it that from time to time, one thousand unhappy souls would come here and that, from time to time, souls would come here and that, from time to time, another thousand unhappy souls would go away….another thousand unhappy souls would go away….

From the prose of fifteen-year-old Petr Fischl, (born From the prose of fifteen-year-old Petr Fischl, (born September 9, 1929).September 9, 1929).

Pavel Friedman was born on January 7, 1921 in Prague Pavel Friedman was born on January 7, 1921 in Prague and deported to Terezin on April 26, 1942. He wrote a and deported to Terezin on April 26, 1942. He wrote a

poem “The Butterfly” on a piece of thin copy paper poem “The Butterfly” on a piece of thin copy paper which was donated to the State Jewish Museum.which was donated to the State Jewish Museum.

““Camel,”Camel,” pencil drawing by Karel Sattler. pencil drawing by Karel Sattler.

The ButterflyThe Butterfly

The last, the very last,The last, the very last,So richly, brightly, dazzlingly yellow.So richly, brightly, dazzlingly yellow.Perhaps if the sun’s tears would singPerhaps if the sun’s tears would sing

against a white stone….against a white stone….Such, such a yellowSuch, such a yellowIs carried lightly ‘way up high.Is carried lightly ‘way up high.It went away I’m sure because it It went away I’m sure because it

wished towished tokiss the world good-bye.kiss the world good-bye.

For seven weeks I’ve lived in here,For seven weeks I’ve lived in here,Penned up inside this ghetto.Penned up inside this ghetto.But I have found what I love here.But I have found what I love here.The dandelions call to meThe dandelions call to meAnd the white chestnut branches in And the white chestnut branches in

the court.the court.Only I never saw another butterfly.Only I never saw another butterfly.

That butterfly was the last one. That butterfly was the last one. Butterflies don’t live in here,Butterflies don’t live in here,

in the ghetto.in the ghetto.

4. 6. 1942 Pavel Friedmann4. 6. 1942 Pavel Friedmann

Marika Marika Friedemanova was Friedemanova was born on April 19, born on April 19,

1933 and 1933 and deported to deported to

Terezin on August Terezin on August 3, 1942. There 3, 1942. There are 23 more of are 23 more of her drawings in her drawings in the collection. the collection.

One of them was One of them was dated 1944. She dated 1944. She lived in building lived in building L410, house 13.L410, house 13.

This detail is from This detail is from a larger drawing a larger drawing entitled entitled Flowers Flowers with Butterfly.with Butterfly.

BirdsongBirdsongHe doesn’t know the world at allHe doesn’t know the world at allWho stays in his nest and doesn’t go Who stays in his nest and doesn’t go

out.out.He doesn’t know what birds know bestHe doesn’t know what birds know bestNor what I want to sing about,Nor what I want to sing about,That the world is full of loveliness.That the world is full of loveliness.

When dewdrops sparkle in the grassWhen dewdrops sparkle in the grassAnd earth’s aflood with morning light,And earth’s aflood with morning light,A blackbird sings upon a bushA blackbird sings upon a bushTo greet the dawning after night.To greet the dawning after night.Then I know how fine it is to live.Then I know how fine it is to live.

Hey, try to open up your heartHey, try to open up your heartTo beauty; go to the woods someday To beauty; go to the woods someday And weave a wreath of memory there.And weave a wreath of memory there.Then if the tears obscure your wayThen if the tears obscure your wayYou’ll know how wonderful it isYou’ll know how wonderful it is

To be alive.To be alive.1941 Anonymous1941 Anonymous

Gabriela Freiova was born January 1, 1933 in Holice in Gabriela Freiova was born January 1, 1933 in Holice in Bohemia and was deported to Terezin on December 9, 1942. Bohemia and was deported to Terezin on December 9, 1942. She is represented in the collection by 24 drawings; most of She is represented in the collection by 24 drawings; most of

them were done with colored pencil. One, an exception, dated them were done with colored pencil. One, an exception, dated 1943 is called “Ship at Sea” while the others were made 1943 is called “Ship at Sea” while the others were made

between January and May of 1944. At Terezin, she lived in between January and May of 1944. At Terezin, she lived in house number 13.house number 13.

““Children in the Park”,Children in the Park”, pencil sketch on tinted paper, by Gabriela Freiova. pencil sketch on tinted paper, by Gabriela Freiova.

You wonton, quiet memory that haunts me all You wonton, quiet memory that haunts me all the whilethe while

In order to remind me of her whom love I In order to remind me of her whom love I send.send.

Perhaps when you caress me sweetly, I will Perhaps when you caress me sweetly, I will smile,smile,

You are my confidante today, my very dearest You are my confidante today, my very dearest friend.friend.

You sweet remembrance, tell a fairy taleYou sweet remembrance, tell a fairy taleAbout my girl who’s lost and gone, you see.About my girl who’s lost and gone, you see.Tell, tell the one about the golden grailTell, tell the one about the golden grailAnd call the swallow, bring her back to me.And call the swallow, bring her back to me.

Fly somewhere back to her and ask her, soft Fly somewhere back to her and ask her, soft and low,and low,

If she thinks of me sometimes with love,If she thinks of me sometimes with love,If she is well and ask her, too, before you goIf she is well and ask her, too, before you goIf I am still her dearest, precious dove.If I am still her dearest, precious dove.

And hurry back, don’t lose your way,And hurry back, don’t lose your way,So I can think of other things,So I can think of other things,But you were too lovely, perhaps, to stay. But you were too lovely, perhaps, to stay. I loved you once. Good-bye, my love!I loved you once. Good-bye, my love!

AnonymousAnonymous

Hana Grunfeldova was born on May 20, 1935, place unknown, Hana Grunfeldova was born on May 20, 1935, place unknown, and deported to Terezin on December 14, 1941. She had 10 and deported to Terezin on December 14, 1941. She had 10 drawings included in the collection. She lived in Block IV at drawings included in the collection. She lived in Block IV at

Terezin. Hana’s piece is a watercolor of a dwelling in Terezin.Terezin. Hana’s piece is a watercolor of a dwelling in Terezin.

Dwellings in Terezin, watercolor on tinted paper.

Fifteen beds. Fifteen charts with Fifteen beds. Fifteen charts with names,names,

Fifteen people without a family tree.Fifteen people without a family tree.Fifteen bodies for whom torture is Fifteen bodies for whom torture is

medicine and pills,medicine and pills,Beds over which the crimson blood Beds over which the crimson blood

of ages spills.of ages spills.Fifteen bodies that want to live Fifteen bodies that want to live

here.here.Thirty eyes seeking quietness.Thirty eyes seeking quietness.Bald heads that gape from out of Bald heads that gape from out of

the prison.the prison.The holiness of the suffering, which The holiness of the suffering, which

is none of my business.is none of my business.

The loveliness of air, which day The loveliness of air, which day after dayafter day

Smells of strangeness and carbolic,Smells of strangeness and carbolic,The nurses that carry thermometersThe nurses that carry thermometersMothers who grope after a smile.Mothers who grope after a smile.Food is such a luxury here.Food is such a luxury here.A long, long night, and a brief day.A long, long night, and a brief day.

But anyway, I don’t want to But anyway, I don’t want to leaveleaveThe lighted rooms and the The lighted rooms and the burning cheeks,burning cheeks,Nurses who leave behind them Nurses who leave behind them only a shadowonly a shadowTo help the little sufferers.To help the little sufferers.

I’d like to stay here, a small I’d like to stay here, a small patient,patient,Waiting the doctor’s daily Waiting the doctor’s daily round,round,Until, after a long, long time, I’d Until, after a long, long time, I’d be well again.be well again.

Then I’d like to liveThen I’d like to liveAnd go back home again.And go back home again.AnonymousAnonymous

Pain Strikes Sparks On Me, The Pain of TerezinPain Strikes Sparks On Me, The Pain of Terezin

Hanus Hachenburg was Hanus Hachenburg was born in Prague on July born in Prague on July 12, 1929 and deported 12, 1929 and deported to Terezin on October to Terezin on October 24, 1942. He wrote a 24, 1942. He wrote a poem which was left poem which was left unsigned, but later unsigned, but later

identified by O. Klein, a identified by O. Klein, a former teacher at former teacher at

Terezin. The name of Terezin. The name of the poem is “Terezin.”the poem is “Terezin.”

““Busy Street Scene”,Busy Street Scene”, watercolor, crayon watercolor, crayon and pencil on paper and pencil on paper

by Eva Brunner.by Eva Brunner.

TerezinTerezin

That bit of filth in dirty walls,That bit of filth in dirty walls,And all around barbed wire,And all around barbed wire,And 30,000 souls who sleepAnd 30,000 souls who sleepWho once will wakeWho once will wakeAnd once will seeAnd once will seeTheir own blood spilled.Their own blood spilled.

I was once a little child,I was once a little child,Three years ago,Three years ago,That child who longed for other That child who longed for other

worlds.worlds.But now I am no more a childBut now I am no more a childFor I have learned to hate.For I have learned to hate.I am a grown-up person now,I am a grown-up person now,I have known fear.I have known fear.

Bloody words and a dead day then,Bloody words and a dead day then,That’s something different than That’s something different than

bogeymen!bogeymen! continued on next slide….continued on next slide….

But anyway, I still believe I only sleep today,

That I’ll wake up, a child again, and start to laugh and play.

I’ll go back to childhood sweet like a briar rose,

Like a bell that wakes us from a dream,

Like a mother with an ailing child

Loves him with aching woman’s love.

How tragic, then, is youth that lives

With enemies, with gallows ropes,

How tragic, then for children on your lap

To say: this for the good, that for the bad.

Continued on next slide…

Somewhere, far away out there, childhood sweetly sleeps,Along that path among the trees,There o’er that houseThat was once my pride and joy.There my mother gave me birth into this world So I could weep…

In the flame of candles by my bed, I sleepAnd once perhaps I’ll understandThat I wa such a little thing,As little as this song.

These 30,000 souls who sleepAmong the trees will wake,Open an eyeAnd because they seeA lot

They’ll fall asleep again…

Hanus HachenburgIX, 1944

Elly Hellerova was born in Prague on September 15, 1930 and Elly Hellerova was born in Prague on September 15, 1930 and deported to Terezin on December 22, 1942. Nine of Elly’s deported to Terezin on December 22, 1942. Nine of Elly’s

drawings from the first half of 1944 belong in this collection. drawings from the first half of 1944 belong in this collection. She belonged to group IV. Elly created She belonged to group IV. Elly created Man on a BoatMan on a Boat, shown , shown

below; a pastel on tinted paper.below; a pastel on tinted paper.

To OlgaTo Olga

Listen!Listen!The boat whistle has sounded The boat whistle has sounded

nownowAnd we must sailAnd we must sailOut toward an unknown port.Out toward an unknown port.

We’ll sail a long, long wayWe’ll sail a long, long wayAnd dreams will turn to truth.And dreams will turn to truth.Oh, how sweet the name Oh, how sweet the name

Morocco!Morocco!Listen!Listen!Now it’s time.Now it’s time.

The wind sings songs of far The wind sings songs of far away,away,

Just look up to heavenJust look up to heavenAnd think about the violets.And think about the violets.

Listen!Listen!Now it’s time.Now it’s time.


Jana Hellerova was born on February 3, 1938 in Prague and Jana Hellerova was born on February 3, 1938 in Prague and deported to Terezin on July 15, 1943. She was the youngest deported to Terezin on July 15, 1943. She was the youngest

pupil in Terezin “school”. She has two pencil sketches in the pupil in Terezin “school”. She has two pencil sketches in the collection. Jana created a pencil drawing on writing paper of collection. Jana created a pencil drawing on writing paper of little girls; she signed the piece in the top left hand corner.little girls; she signed the piece in the top left hand corner.

A Letter to DaddyA Letter to Daddy

Momma told me to write to you today,Momma told me to write to you today,But I had no time. New children arrivedBut I had no time. New children arrivedWith the latest transport, andWith the latest transport, andI had to play with them.I had to play with them.I didn’t notice time pass.I didn’t notice time pass.

I live better these days.I live better these days.I sleep on my own mattress on the floor,I sleep on my own mattress on the floor,So I will not fall down.So I will not fall down.At least I don’t have much work to fix up my bed,At least I don’t have much work to fix up my bed,And in the morning I see the sky from my And in the morning I see the sky from my

window.window.

I was coughing a bit, but I don’t want to get sick,I was coughing a bit, but I don’t want to get sick,For I am happy when I can run in the courtyard.For I am happy when I can run in the courtyard.Tonight there will be a gatheringTonight there will be a gatheringLike the ones at Scout camp in the summer.Like the ones at Scout camp in the summer.

We will sing songs we know,We will sing songs we know,A girl will play the accordion.A girl will play the accordion.I know you wonder how we fare here,I know you wonder how we fare here,And you would surely like to be with us now.And you would surely like to be with us now.

Continued on next slide….Continued on next slide….

And something else, Daddy. Come soonAnd something else, Daddy. Come soonAnd have a more cheerful face!And have a more cheerful face!When you are unhappy, Momma is sad,When you are unhappy, Momma is sad,And then I miss the sparkle in her eyes.And then I miss the sparkle in her eyes.

You promised to bring me booksYou promised to bring me booksBecause, truly, I have nothing to read.Because, truly, I have nothing to read.So please, come tomorrow, right before So please, come tomorrow, right before

dusk.dusk.I will surely be grateful for this.I will surely be grateful for this.

Now I must stop. Momma sends you Now I must stop. Momma sends you her love.her love.

I will rejoice when I hear your footstepsI will rejoice when I hear your footstepsIn the hall. Until you are with us again,In the hall. Until you are with us again,I send you my greetings and kisses.I send you my greetings and kisses.

Your faithful son.Your faithful son.AnonymousAnonymous

Eva Heska was born in Prevov on May 29, 1931 and deported Eva Heska was born in Prevov on May 29, 1931 and deported to Terezin on June 26, 1942. Twenty drawings of hers are in to Terezin on June 26, 1942. Twenty drawings of hers are in

the Terezin children’s collection, dating from February to May the Terezin children’s collection, dating from February to May 1944. She lived in house number 13 at Terezin and belonged 1944. She lived in house number 13 at Terezin and belonged to Group IV. The pencil drawing below is entitled to Group IV. The pencil drawing below is entitled Paradise-Paradise-

Forbidden FruitForbidden Fruit..

Yes, That’s The Way Things AreYes, That’s The Way Things Are

I.I.In Terezin in the so-called parkIn Terezin in the so-called parkA queer old granddad sitsA queer old granddad sitsSomewhere there in the so-called park.Somewhere there in the so-called park.He wears a beard down to his lapHe wears a beard down to his lapAnd on his head, a little cap.And on his head, a little cap.

IIII

Hard crusts he crumbles in his gums,Hard crusts he crumbles in his gums,He’s only got one single tooth.He’s only got one single tooth.My poor old man with working gums,My poor old man with working gums,Instead of soft rolls, lentil soup.Instead of soft rolls, lentil soup.My poor old graybeard!My poor old graybeard!

Koleba (M. Kosek, H. Lowy, Bachner)Koleba (M. Kosek, H. Lowy, Bachner)

Petr Holzbauer was born on January 29, 1932 and Petr Holzbauer was born on January 29, 1932 and deported to Terezin from Prague on December 22, deported to Terezin from Prague on December 22, 1942. Petr drew a pencil drawing of a deportation 1942. Petr drew a pencil drawing of a deportation

train. The name of the artist is incorporated into the train. The name of the artist is incorporated into the flowing waters of a river.flowing waters of a river.

Lights OutLights Out

……Three young boys ran away. For that we have already had a Three young boys ran away. For that we have already had a week of “confinement to barracks” and “lights out.” We walk only week of “confinement to barracks” and “lights out.” We walk only in columns to work, and after six o’clock in the evening, no one is in columns to work, and after six o’clock in the evening, no one is allowed on the street. We come home from work in the dark and in allowed on the street. We come home from work in the dark and in the morning we go to work in the dark. We dress and undress by the morning we go to work in the dark. We dress and undress by the touch system. Our windows must be darkened and it is the touch system. Our windows must be darkened and it is forbidden to have any sort of light. Tomorrow I’m going to the forbidden to have any sort of light. Tomorrow I’m going to the Hamburg barracks for bread and perhaps I’ll manage to see Mom…Hamburg barracks for bread and perhaps I’ll manage to see Mom…

““Confinement” has been canceled, but “lights out” Confinement” has been canceled, but “lights out” continues, evidently for the whole winter. We have to save on continues, evidently for the whole winter. We have to save on electricity. Each of the different blocks gets it every third day in electricity. Each of the different blocks gets it every third day in turn. We may use candles for light, but they don’t last long. turn. We may use candles for light, but they don’t last long. Supplies from home are being used up and we can’t manage to get Supplies from home are being used up and we can’t manage to get more. It is terribly stupid, we can’t ev en read in the evening. more. It is terribly stupid, we can’t ev en read in the evening. Without light everything is so sad and gloomy. I am awfully Without light everything is so sad and gloomy. I am awfully homesick for Prague. Evening after evening Franka and I recall homesick for Prague. Evening after evening Franka and I recall things in Prague far into the night and often we dream of it in our things in Prague far into the night and often we dream of it in our sleep….sleep….

Last night I had a beautiful dream. I dreamed that I was at Last night I had a beautiful dream. I dreamed that I was at home, I saw quite clearly our flat and street. Now I am home, I saw quite clearly our flat and street. Now I am disappointed and out of sorts, because I awoke in the bunk instead disappointed and out of sorts, because I awoke in the bunk instead of my own bed. But maybe this was some sort of omen of an early of my own bed. But maybe this was some sort of omen of an early end. Then there should be permanent “lights out” all over end. Then there should be permanent “lights out” all over Germany….Germany….

Old people’s transport. Ten thousand sick, crippled, dying , all of Old people’s transport. Ten thousand sick, crippled, dying , all of them over sixty-five years old.them over sixty-five years old.

Continued on next slide…Continued on next slide…

It’s horrible everywhere. The rays of sun fall exactly on my bunk It’s horrible everywhere. The rays of sun fall exactly on my bunk and reach on farther, I try in vain to get away from them into the shade. and reach on farther, I try in vain to get away from them into the shade. Today I shan’t go and report for “Service.” I haven’t left out a day yet, Today I shan’t go and report for “Service.” I haven’t left out a day yet, but I am too exhausted to stand the sight of misery and suffering again. but I am too exhausted to stand the sight of misery and suffering again. The old people’s transport, the young people cannot volunteer. Children The old people’s transport, the young people cannot volunteer. Children have to let their old parents go off and can’t help them. Why do they want have to let their old parents go off and can’t help them. Why do they want to send these defenseless people away? If they want to get rid of us to send these defenseless people away? If they want to get rid of us young people, I can understand that, maybe they are afraid of us, don’t young people, I can understand that, maybe they are afraid of us, don’t want us to give birth to any ore Jewish children. But how can these old want us to give birth to any ore Jewish children. But how can these old people be dangerous? If they had to come here to Terezin, isn’t that people be dangerous? If they had to come here to Terezin, isn’t that enough, cant they let them die in peace here? After all, these old people enough, cant they let them die in peace here? After all, these old people can’t hope for anything else….can’t hope for anything else….

The barracks by the physical culture hall must be cleared out, a The barracks by the physical culture hall must be cleared out, a special dinner is being cooked, and the reception center is getting ready. special dinner is being cooked, and the reception center is getting ready. They say some Polish children are coming. This is all incomprehensible. They say some Polish children are coming. This is all incomprehensible. Why, and how does it ha;ppen that they are brought here from Poland?Why, and how does it ha;ppen that they are brought here from Poland?

They came yesterday at five o’clock. No one is allowed near They came yesterday at five o’clock. No one is allowed near them. In the night they called some nurses, guards, and doctors. Besides them. In the night they called some nurses, guards, and doctors. Besides these no one is allowed near their barracks….You can see them a little these no one is allowed near their barracks….You can see them a little from the fortress wall, and then they went in the morning to the reception from the fortress wall, and then they went in the morning to the reception center….They are all barelegged and only a very few have shoes. They center….They are all barelegged and only a very few have shoes. They returned from the reception center with their heads shaved, they have returned from the reception center with their heads shaved, they have lice. They all have such frightened eyes….lice. They all have such frightened eyes….

Yesterday they were taken off, doctors, nurses, and guards with Yesterday they were taken off, doctors, nurses, and guards with them….them….

Where they came from we never found out, nor where they were Where they came from we never found out, nor where they were taken either. Rumors were circulating about deportation to Palestine, but taken either. Rumors were circulating about deportation to Palestine, but no one believes this. They have gone. All that is left is a few lines no one believes this. They have gone. All that is left is a few lines scribbled on the wall of the barracks that hardly anyone can figure out.scribbled on the wall of the barracks that hardly anyone can figure out.

From the diary of Helga WeissovaFrom the diary of Helga Weissova

Irena Karpelesova was burn in Prague on December 30, 1930 Irena Karpelesova was burn in Prague on December 30, 1930 and deported to Terezin on December 22, 1942. She has 27 and deported to Terezin on December 22, 1942. She has 27 drawings included in this collection reflecting life in Terezin drawings included in this collection reflecting life in Terezin and its environs. At Terezin, Irena lived in house number 13 and its environs. At Terezin, Irena lived in house number 13 and belonged to group A. She drew a picture of a menorah in and belonged to group A. She drew a picture of a menorah in

pastels on yellow paper.pastels on yellow paper.

HomesickHomesick

I’ve lived in the ghetto here for more than a year,In Terezin, in the black town now,And when I remember my old home so dear,I can love it more than I did, somehow.

Ah, home, home,Why did they tear me away?Here the weak die easy as a featherAnd when they die, they die forever.

I’d like to go back home again,It makes me think of sweet spring flowers.Before, when I used to live at home,It never seemed so dear and fair.

I remember now those golden days…

But maybe I’ll be going there soon again.

People walk along the street,You see at once on each you meet That there’s ghetto here,A place of evil and of fear.There’s little to eat and much to

want,Where bit by bit, it’s horror to live.But on one must give up!The world turns and times change.

Yet we all hope the time will comeWhen we’ll go home again.Now I know how dear it isAnd often I remember it.

1943 Anonymous

Hana Erika Karplusova was born on January 4, 1930 Hana Erika Karplusova was born on January 4, 1930 and arrived at Terezin on April 4, 1942. She was a and arrived at Terezin on April 4, 1942. She was a student of Friedl Dicker-Brandeis. Hana created a student of Friedl Dicker-Brandeis. Hana created a

pastel and pencil drawing of a faraway house.pastel and pencil drawing of a faraway house.

HomeHome

I look, I lookI look, I lookInto the wide world.Into the wide world.I look to the southeast,I look to the southeast,I look, I look toward my I look, I look toward my

home.home.

I look toward my home,I look toward my home,The city whee I was born.The city whee I was born.City, my city, City, my city, I will gladly return to you.I will gladly return to you.


Ela Kestlerova was born in Prague on July 23, 1933 and Ela Kestlerova was born in Prague on July 23, 1933 and deported to Terezin on April 28, 1942. She is deported to Terezin on April 28, 1942. She is

represented with 5 drawings in this collection. In represented with 5 drawings in this collection. In Terezin, she stayed in house number 13 and belonged Terezin, she stayed in house number 13 and belonged

to Group I.to Group I.

Detail of sky in Detail of sky in “Landscape “Landscape with Trees”with Trees”

““Landscape Landscape with with

Trees”, Trees”, Drawing in Drawing in pencil and pencil and pastels on pastels on reverse of reverse of

semi-glossy semi-glossy yellow yellow paper.paper.

BirdsongBirdsong

He doesn’t know the world at allHe doesn’t know the world at allWho stays in his nest and doesn’t Who stays in his nest and doesn’t

go out.go out.He doesn’t know what birds know He doesn’t know what birds know

bestbestNor what I want to sing about,Nor what I want to sing about,That the world is full of loveliness.That the world is full of loveliness.

When dewdrops sparkle in the When dewdrops sparkle in the grassgrass

And earth’s aflood with morning And earth’s aflood with morning light,light,

A blackbird sings upon a bushA blackbird sings upon a bushTo greet the dawning after night.To greet the dawning after night.Then I know how fine it is to live.Then I know how fine it is to live.

Hey, try to open up your heartHey, try to open up your heartTo beauty; go to the woods To beauty; go to the woods

somedaysomedayAnd weave a wreath of memory And weave a wreath of memory

there.there.Then if the tears obscure your way Then if the tears obscure your way You’ll know how wonderful it is You’ll know how wonderful it is To be alive.To be alive.

1941 Anonymous1941 Anonymous

Hanus Klauber was born on May 12, 1932 and deported Hanus Klauber was born on May 12, 1932 and deported to Terezin from Plzen on January 18, 1942. He made a to Terezin from Plzen on January 18, 1942. He made a

paper cutout with brown paint of a man with a paper cutout with brown paint of a man with a mustache.mustache.

A Letter to DaddyA Letter to Daddy

Momma told me to write to you today,Momma told me to write to you today,But I had no time. New children arrivedBut I had no time. New children arrivedWith the latest transport, andWith the latest transport, andI had to play with them.I had to play with them.I didn’t notice time pass.I didn’t notice time pass.

I live better these days.I live better these days.I sleep on my own mattress on the floor,I sleep on my own mattress on the floor,So I will not fall down.So I will not fall down.At least I don’t have much work to fix up my At least I don’t have much work to fix up my

bed,bed,And in the morning I see the sky from my And in the morning I see the sky from my

window.window.

I was coughing a bit, but I don’t want to get I was coughing a bit, but I don’t want to get sick,sick,

For I am happy when I can run in the courtyard.For I am happy when I can run in the courtyard.Tonight there will be a gatheringTonight there will be a gatheringLike the ones at Scout camp in the summer.Like the ones at Scout camp in the summer.

We will sing songs we know,We will sing songs we know,A girl will play the accordion.A girl will play the accordion.I know you wonder how we fare here,I know you wonder how we fare here,And you would surely like to be with us now.And you would surely like to be with us now.

Continued on next slide….Continued on next slide….

And something else, Daddy. Come soonAnd something else, Daddy. Come soonAnd have a more cheerful face!And have a more cheerful face!When you are unhappy, Momma is sad,When you are unhappy, Momma is sad,And then I miss the sparkle in her eyes.And then I miss the sparkle in her eyes.

You promised to bring me booksYou promised to bring me booksBecause, truly, I have nothing to read.Because, truly, I have nothing to read.So please, come tomorrow, right before So please, come tomorrow, right before

dusk.dusk.I will surely be grateful for this.I will surely be grateful for this.

Now I must stop. Momma sends you her Now I must stop. Momma sends you her love.love.

I will rejoice when I hear your footstepsI will rejoice when I hear your footstepsIn the hall. Until you are with us again,In the hall. Until you are with us again,I send you my greetings and kisses.I send you my greetings and kisses.

Your faithful son.Your faithful son.AnonymousAnonymous

Hana Kohnova was born on July 7, 1931 and deported to Hana Kohnova was born on July 7, 1931 and deported to Teezin from Prague on December 14, 1941. She Teezin from Prague on December 14, 1941. She

completed a watercolor of a house in Terezin on shiny completed a watercolor of a house in Terezin on shiny paper.paper.

HomeHome

I look, I lookI look, I lookinto the wide world,into the wide world,into the wide, distant into the wide, distant

world.world.I look to the southeast,I look to the southeast,I look, I look toward my I look, I look toward my

home.home.

I look toward my home,I look toward my home,the city where I was born.the city where I was born.City, my city,City, my city,I will gladly return to youI will gladly return to you


Miroslav Kosek was born on March 30, 1932 in Horelice in Miroslav Kosek was born on March 30, 1932 in Horelice in Bohemia and deported to Terezin on February 15, 1942. He Bohemia and deported to Terezin on February 15, 1942. He

wrote a child’s rhyme (included on the next slide) in two wrote a child’s rhyme (included on the next slide) in two stanzas without any grammatical errors. It was written in pen stanzas without any grammatical errors. It was written in pen

on a German office form.on a German office form.

““Girl with Raised Fists”,Girl with Raised Fists”, pencil sketch on tinted paper by Raja Englanderova pencil sketch on tinted paper by Raja Englanderova

The Little MouseThe Little Mouse

A mousie sat upon a shelf,A mousie sat upon a shelf,Catching fleas in his coat of fur.Catching fleas in his coat of fur.But he couldn’t catch her—what chagrin!—But he couldn’t catch her—what chagrin!—She’d hidden ‘way inside his skin.She’d hidden ‘way inside his skin.He turned and wriggled, knew no rest,He turned and wriggled, knew no rest,That flea was such a nasty pest!That flea was such a nasty pest!

His daddy cameHis daddy cameAnd searched his coat.And searched his coat.He caught the flea and off he ranHe caught the flea and off he ranTo cook her in the frying pan.To cook her in the frying pan.The little mouse cried, “Come and see!The little mouse cried, “Come and see!For lunch we’ve got a nice, fat flea!”For lunch we’ve got a nice, fat flea!”

26.II.1944 Koleba (M. Kosek, H. Lowy, 26.II.1944 Koleba (M. Kosek, H. Lowy, Bachner)Bachner)

Marianna Langova was born in Prague on February 27, 1932 Marianna Langova was born in Prague on February 27, 1932 and deported to Terezin on July 2, 1942. The collection of and deported to Terezin on July 2, 1942. The collection of

children’s art from Terezin contains 15 of her drawings dated children’s art from Terezin contains 15 of her drawings dated between April and May 1944. She lived in house number 13 at between April and May 1944. She lived in house number 13 at

Terezin and belonged to group IV. Marianna painted a Terezin and belonged to group IV. Marianna painted a watercolor of a house with a garden on the back side of shiny watercolor of a house with a garden on the back side of shiny

red paper.red paper.

The GardenThe Garden

A little garden,A little garden,Fragrant and full of roses.Fragrant and full of roses.The path is narrowThe path is narrowAnd a little boy walks And a little boy walks

along it.along it.

A little boy, a sweet boy,A little boy, a sweet boy,Like that growing Like that growing

blossom.blossom.When the blossom comes When the blossom comes

to bloom,to bloom,The little boy will be no The little boy will be no

more.more.


Nina Ledererova was born September 7, 1931 in Prague and Nina Ledererova was born September 7, 1931 in Prague and deported to Terezin on September 8, 1942. She has 10 deported to Terezin on September 8, 1942. She has 10

drawings in the collection of Children’s art from Terezin. drawings in the collection of Children’s art from Terezin. They date from April to May 1944. She was a member of They date from April to May 1944. She was a member of Group II. Her last drawings were done on May 9, 1944. Group II. Her last drawings were done on May 9, 1944.

Nina’s piece is a watercolor of a girl looking out of the window Nina’s piece is a watercolor of a girl looking out of the window on tinted paper.on tinted paper.

I’d Like To Go AloneI’d Like To Go Alone

I’d like to go away aloneI’d like to go away aloneWhere there are other, nicer Where there are other, nicer

people,people,Somewhere into the far Somewhere into the far

unknown,unknown,There, where no one kills There, where no one kills

another.another.

Maybe more of us,Maybe more of us,A thousand strong,A thousand strong,Will reach this goalWill reach this goalBefore too long.Before too long.


Anna Lindtova was born on Anna Lindtova was born on March 19, 1930. She was March 19, 1930. She was deported to Terezin from deported to Terezin from Prague on May 12, 1942. Prague on May 12, 1942. She wrote a poem entitled She wrote a poem entitled CampfireCampfire, included on the , included on the

next slide.next slide.

“Figure with Bandage and Caricature of a Man,” pencil

drawing on tinted paper, no name.

CampfireCampfire

Here I sit on a rockHere I sit on a rockIn front of the campfire.In front of the campfire.One branch after another is One branch after another is

snatched by the fire.snatched by the fire.Into the darknessInto the darknessThe forest recedes.The forest recedes.

Fire makes one reflect…Fire makes one reflect…Terezin is all I think about.Terezin is all I think about.But now memories gather ‘round But now memories gather ‘round

memeLike the falling leaves.Like the falling leaves.

Fall is here.Fall is here.The leaves turn yellow on the trees,The leaves turn yellow on the trees,The campfire dies out.The campfire dies out.My thoughts are far from here,My thoughts are far from here,Somewhere far,Somewhere far,Where integrity lives.Where integrity lives.

It lives in my friend.It lives in my friend.Now I think of her.Now I think of her.Memories gather ‘round meMemories gather ‘round meLike the falling leaves.Like the falling leaves.

A. LindtovaA. Lindtova

Hana Lissauova was Hana Lissauova was born on February 4, born on February 4,

1931 in Lany and 1931 in Lany and deported to Terezin deported to Terezin

on February 25, on February 25, 1942. She has 23 1942. She has 23 drawings in the drawings in the

collection, mostly collection, mostly pencil sketches. pencil sketches. This collage is This collage is

entitled entitled FantasyFantasy and and was created using was created using pasted paper from pasted paper from office forms. She office forms. She

lived in house lived in house number 28 while in number 28 while in

Terezin.Terezin.

Concert In The Old School GarretConcert In The Old School Garret

White fingers of the sexton sleep heavy upon us.White fingers of the sexton sleep heavy upon us.Half a centuryHalf a centurySince anyone as much as toughed this piano.Since anyone as much as toughed this piano.Let it sing againLet it sing againAs it was made to yesterday.As it was made to yesterday.

Phantom hands that strike softly or that thunder.Phantom hands that strike softly or that thunder.The forehead of this man heavy as the The forehead of this man heavy as the Heavens before it rains.Heavens before it rains.

And the springs, And the springs, Under the weight of excitement, forgot to squeak.Under the weight of excitement, forgot to squeak.Half a century it is since anyone as much as touched this Half a century it is since anyone as much as touched this

piano.piano.

Our good friend TimeOur good friend TimeSucked each figure empty like a honeybeeSucked each figure empty like a honeybeeThat has lived long enoughThat has lived long enoughAnd drunk enough honeyAnd drunk enough honeySo that now it can dry out in the sun somewhere.So that now it can dry out in the sun somewhere.


Under the closed eyes, another person site,Under the closed eyes, another person site,Under the closed eyes, he seeks among the keysUnder the closed eyes, he seeks among the keysAs among the veins through which the blood As among the veins through which the blood

flows softlyflows softlyWhen you kiss them with a knife and put a song When you kiss them with a knife and put a song

to it.to it.

And this man yesterday cut all the veins,And this man yesterday cut all the veins,Opening all the organ’s stops,Opening all the organ’s stops,Paid all the birds to sing,Paid all the birds to sing,To singTo sing

Even though the harsh fingers of the sextonEven though the harsh fingers of the sextonSleep heavy upon us.Sleep heavy upon us.Bent in his manner of death, you are like Bent in his manner of death, you are like

BeethovenBeethoven

Your forehead was as heavy as the heavens Your forehead was as heavy as the heavens before it rains.before it rains.

AnonymousAnonymous

Helena Mandlova was born in Prague on May 21, 1931 and Helena Mandlova was born in Prague on May 21, 1931 and deported to Terezin on December 17, 1941. She has 9 deported to Terezin on December 17, 1941. She has 9

drawings in the collection. One of the most interesting is a drawings in the collection. One of the most interesting is a pencil sketch labeling the children’s homes, shops and other pencil sketch labeling the children’s homes, shops and other

buildings at Terezin. She lived in building L410, house buildings at Terezin. She lived in building L410, house number 28. She was a student of Friedl Dicker-Brandeis.number 28. She was a student of Friedl Dicker-Brandeis.

““Night SkyNight Sky,” ,” collage of collage of

paper cutouts paper cutouts of office forms of office forms pasted on shiny pasted on shiny background by background by

Helena Helena Mandlova.Mandlova.

An Evening In TerezinAn Evening In Terezin

The sun goes downThe sun goes downand everything is silent,and everything is silent,only at the guard’s postonly at the guard’s postare heavy footfalls heard.are heavy footfalls heard.

That’s the guard who watches That’s the guard who watches his Jewshis Jews

to make sure they don’t run to make sure they don’t run away from the ghetto,away from the ghetto,

or that an Aryan aunt or uncleor that an Aryan aunt or uncledoesn’t try to get in.doesn’t try to get in.

Ten o’clock strikes suddenly,Ten o’clock strikes suddenly,and the windows of Dresden’s and the windows of Dresden’s

barracks darken.barracks darken.The women have a lot to talk The women have a lot to talk

about;about;they remember their homes,they remember their homes,and dinners they made.and dinners they made.

Then some of them argue.

Others try to quiet them down.

Finally, one by one, they grow silent;

they toss and turn, and in the end,

they fall asleep.

How many more evenings

will we have to live like this?

We do not know,

only God knows.

Eva Schulzova

Kurt Mayer was the second Kurt Mayer was the second son to be born to Walter and son to be born to Walter and Frieda Mayer on September Frieda Mayer on September 26, 1926. He was a welcome 26, 1926. He was a welcome addition to a large extended addition to a large extended family, including his then family, including his then

three year old brother, three year old brother, Hans. The Walter Mayer Hans. The Walter Mayer

family owned a small family owned a small stationery store in Neuwied, stationery store in Neuwied, Germany about a block from Germany about a block from the Rhine River. (There is a the Rhine River. (There is a McDonald’s in the area now McDonald’s in the area now

where the store used to where the store used to stand…) The family lived stand…) The family lived

above the stationery store. above the stationery store. The extended family was The extended family was involved in dairy farming involved in dairy farming

and from all accounts were and from all accounts were working class people, close-working class people, close-

knit with aunts, uncles, knit with aunts, uncles, cousins, etc…cousins, etc…

“Flowers in a Vase,” collage of cut paper and office ledger paper painted over with tempera, signed “Kitty Passerova.

At TerezinAt Terezin

When a new child comesWhen a new child comesEverything seems strange to him.Everything seems strange to him.What, on the ground I have to lie?What, on the ground I have to lie?Eat black potatoes? No! Not I!Eat black potatoes? No! Not I!I’ve got to stay? It’s dirty here!I’ve got to stay? It’s dirty here!The floor—why, look, it’s dirt, I fear!The floor—why, look, it’s dirt, I fear!And I’m supposed to sleep on it?And I’m supposed to sleep on it?I’ll get all dirty!I’ll get all dirty!

Here the sound of shouting, cries,Here the sound of shouting, cries,And oh, so many flies.And oh, so many flies.Everyone knows flies carry disease.Everyone knows flies carry disease.Oooh, something bit me! Wasn’t that Oooh, something bit me! Wasn’t that a bedbug?a bedbug?Here in Terezin, life is hellHere in Terezin, life is hellAnd when I’ll go home again, I can’t And when I’ll go home again, I can’t yet tell.yet tell.

TeddyTeddyL410, 1943L410, 1943

Eva Meitnerova was born in Prostejov on May 1, 1931 and Eva Meitnerova was born in Prostejov on May 1, 1931 and deported to Terezin on July 4, 1942. 23 of her drawings, deported to Terezin on July 4, 1942. 23 of her drawings, mainly pencil sketches and pastels are included in the mainly pencil sketches and pastels are included in the

collection. One of the most interesting is the pastel “Seder,” collection. One of the most interesting is the pastel “Seder,” depicting a holiday supper during Passover in which the depicting a holiday supper during Passover in which the

children had participated in their home. In Terezin, she lived children had participated in their home. In Terezin, she lived in house number 14 and belonged to Group IV.in house number 14 and belonged to Group IV.

““Man with a Long Man with a Long Beard,” pencil Beard,” pencil

drawing on drawing on tinted paper by tinted paper by Eva MeitnerovaEva Meitnerova

Yes, That’s The Way Things AreYes, That’s The Way Things Are

I.I.In Terezin in the so-called parkIn Terezin in the so-called parkA queer old granddad sitsA queer old granddad sitsSomewhere there in the so-called park.Somewhere there in the so-called park.He wears a beard down to his lapHe wears a beard down to his lapAnd on his head, a little cap.And on his head, a little cap.

II.II.Hard crusts he crumbles in his gums,Hard crusts he crumbles in his gums,He’s only got one single tooth.He’s only got one single tooth.My poor old man with working gums,My poor old man with working gums,Instead of soft rolls, lentil soup.Instead of soft rolls, lentil soup.My poor old graybeard!My poor old graybeard!

Koleba (M. Kosek, H. Lowy, Bachner)Koleba (M. Kosek, H. Lowy, Bachner)

Josef Novak was born Josef Novak was born on October 25, 1931 on October 25, 1931

in Prague and in Prague and deported to Terezin deported to Terezin on April 24, 1942. on April 24, 1942.

Another 16 sketches, Another 16 sketches, watercolors and pencil watercolors and pencil

drawings have been drawings have been preserved in the preserved in the

collection of collection of children’s art at children’s art at

Terezin. He included Terezin. He included a drawing of patriotic a drawing of patriotic inspiration, but there inspiration, but there

is also a picture of is also a picture of Terezin execution, Terezin execution,

made from a made from a description he had description he had heard. He lived in heard. He lived in

boys’ dormitory X in boys’ dormitory X in Terezin and was a Terezin and was a student of Friedl student of Friedl Dicker-Brandeis.Dicker-Brandeis.

““Labor Brigades” Pencil drawing by Josef NovakLabor Brigades” Pencil drawing by Josef Novak

TerezinTerezin

The heaviest wheel rolls across The heaviest wheel rolls across our foreheadsour foreheads

To bury itself deep somewhere To bury itself deep somewhere inside our memories.inside our memories.

We’ve suffered here more than We’ve suffered here more than enough,enough,

Here in this clot of grief and Here in this clot of grief and shame,shame,

Wanting a badge of blindnessWanting a badge of blindnessTo be a proof for their own To be a proof for their own

children.children.

A fourth year of waiting, like A fourth year of waiting, like standing above a swampstanding above a swamp

From which any moment might From which any moment might gush forth a spring.gush forth a spring.

Meanwhile, the rivers flow Meanwhile, the rivers flow another way,another way,

Another way,Another way,Not letting you die, not letting Not letting you die, not letting

you live.you live.

And the cannons don’t scream And the cannons don’t scream and the guns don’t barkand the guns don’t barkAnd you don’t see blood here.And you don’t see blood here.Nothing, only silent hunger.Nothing, only silent hunger.Children steal the bread here Children steal the bread here and ask and askand ask and ask

And ask.And ask.And all would wish to sleep, And all would wish to sleep, keep silent, andkeep silent, andJust to go to sleep again…Just to go to sleep again…

The heaviest wheel rolls The heaviest wheel rolls across our foreheadsacross our foreheadsTo bury itself deep To bury itself deep somewhere inside our somewhere inside our memories.memories.

Mif, 1944Mif, 1944

Kitty Marketa Passerova Kitty Marketa Passerova was born on September was born on September 4, 1929 and deported to 4, 1929 and deported to Terezin from Prague on Terezin from Prague on December 8, 1943. Kitty December 8, 1943. Kitty

made a collage of cut made a collage of cut paper and office ledger paper and office ledger paper painted over with paper painted over with

tempera paint. This tempera paint. This piece is piece is Flowers in a Flowers in a

Vase.Vase.

The Old HouseThe Old House

Deserted here, the old houseDeserted here, the old housestands in silence, asleep.stands in silence, asleep.the old house used to be so the old house used to be so

nice,nice,before, standing there,before, standing there,it was so nice.it was so nice.Now it is deserted,Now it is deserted,rotting in silence—rotting in silence—What a waste of houses,What a waste of houses,a waste of hours.a waste of hours.


Eva Pickova was born in Nymburk on May 15, 1929 and Eva Pickova was born in Nymburk on May 15, 1929 and deported to Terezin on April 16, 1942. She wrote a deported to Terezin on April 16, 1942. She wrote a poem entitled “Fear”, included on the next slide. poem entitled “Fear”, included on the next slide.

“The Courtyard,” watercolor and ink on used paper, signed in pencil on lower right corner, “H II

Sonnenschein.”

FearFear

Today the ghetto knows a different fear,Today the ghetto knows a different fear,Close in its grip, Death wields an icy Close in its grip, Death wields an icy

scythe.scythe.An evil sikness spreads a terror in its wake,An evil sikness spreads a terror in its wake,The victims of its shadow, weep and writhe.The victims of its shadow, weep and writhe.

Today a father’s heartbeat tells his frightToday a father’s heartbeat tells his frightAnd mothers bend their heads into their And mothers bend their heads into their

hands.hands.Now children choke and die with typhus Now children choke and die with typhus

here,here,A bitter tax is taken from their bands.A bitter tax is taken from their bands.

My ehart still beats inside my breastMy ehart still beats inside my breastWhile friends depart for other worlds.While friends depart for other worlds.Perhaps it’s better—who can say?—Perhaps it’s better—who can say?—Than watching this, to die today?Than watching this, to die today?

No, no, my God, we want to live!No, no, my God, we want to live!Not watch our numbers melt away,Not watch our numbers melt away,We want to have a better world,We want to have a better world,We want to work---we must not die!We want to work---we must not die!

Eva Pickova, 12 years old, NumburkEva Pickova, 12 years old, Numburk

Dita Polachova was born on July 12, 1929. She was Dita Polachova was born on July 12, 1929. She was deported to Terezin on November 20, 1942. Dita deported to Terezin on November 20, 1942. Dita

created a watercolor of a building at night.created a watercolor of a building at night.

The Old HouseThe Old House

Deserted here, the old houseDeserted here, the old housestands in silence, asleep.stands in silence, asleep.the old house used to be so the old house used to be so

nice,nice,before, standing there,before, standing there,it was so nice.it was so nice.Now it is deserted,Now it is deserted,rotting in silence—rotting in silence—What a waste of houses,What a waste of houses,a waste of hours.a waste of hours.


Josef Pollak was born on January 27, 1933 in Pardubice, Josef Pollak was born on January 27, 1933 in Pardubice, Czechoslovakia. Below is a detail of a pencil drawing Czechoslovakia. Below is a detail of a pencil drawing

that shows a gate, dated 1944.that shows a gate, dated 1944.




And for the work “when?”And for the work “when?”


of war.of war.




This evening I walked along the This evening I walked along the street of death.street of death.On one wagon, they were taking On one wagon, they were taking the dead away.the dead away.

Why so many marches have Why so many marches have been drummed here?been drummed here?


ThenThenA week after the end,A week after the end,Everything will be empty here.Everything will be empty here.A hungry dove will peck for A hungry dove will peck for bread. bread. In the middle of the street will In the middle of the street will standstandAn empty, dirtyAn empty, dirtyHearse.Hearse.

AnonymousAnonymous

Ruth Schacterova was born on August 24, 1930. She wsa Ruth Schacterova was born on August 24, 1930. She wsa deported to Terezin from Brno on March 19, 1942. She was a deported to Terezin from Brno on March 19, 1942. She was a student of Friedl Dicker-Brandeis. Ruth created a collage of student of Friedl Dicker-Brandeis. Ruth created a collage of

Terezin using office paper pasted on shiny yellow paper.Terezin using office paper pasted on shiny yellow paper.

““View of TerezinView of Terezin” A paper collage by Ruth Schacterova” A paper collage by Ruth Schacterova

UntitledUntitled

I’ve met enough people.I’ve met enough people.Seldom a human being.Seldom a human being.Therefore, I will wait—Therefore, I will wait—until my life’s purpose until my life’s purpose is fulfilledis fulfilledand you will come.and you will come.

Though there is anguishThough there is anguishdeep in my soul—deep in my soul—what if I must search for you what if I must search for you

forever?—forever?—I must not lose faith,I must not lose faith,I must not lose hope.I must not lose hope.


Helena Schanzerova was born in Prague on November 3, 1933, Helena Schanzerova was born in Prague on November 3, 1933, and deported to Terezin on July 30, 1942. She has 7 drawings and deported to Terezin on July 30, 1942. She has 7 drawings

in the collection. At Terezin, Helena lived in building CIII, in the collection. At Terezin, Helena lived in building CIII, House number 13 and belonged to group I. Helena’s piece, House number 13 and belonged to group I. Helena’s piece,

below, is a watercolor on gray paper of dancing children.below, is a watercolor on gray paper of dancing children.

UntitledUntitled

I’ve met enough people.I’ve met enough people.Seldom a human being.Seldom a human being.Therefore, I will wait—Therefore, I will wait—until my life’s purpose until my life’s purpose is fulfilledis fulfilledand you will come.and you will come.

Though there is anguishThough there is anguishdeep in my soul—deep in my soul—what if I must search for what if I must search for you forever?—you forever?—I must not lose faith,I must not lose faith,I must not lose hope.I must not lose hope.


Eva Shurova was born on June 2, 1935 and deported to Eva Shurova was born on June 2, 1935 and deported to Terezin from Pardubice on December 9, 1942. She Terezin from Pardubice on December 9, 1942. She

created a crayon and pencil drawing of the mountains.created a crayon and pencil drawing of the mountains.

““Scaling the MountainsScaling the Mountains,” Crayon and pencil by Eva Schurova,” Crayon and pencil by Eva Schurova

The StormThe Storm

The heavens sense our burden:The heavens sense our burden:The threat of future downpoursThe threat of future downpoursI carry on my back.I carry on my back.We are drunk on wine vinegar.We are drunk on wine vinegar.The nearing storm rouses me,The nearing storm rouses me,it makes me want to shake the world.it makes me want to shake the world.

We are an assembly of misery.We are an assembly of misery.If our hands are bloody,If our hands are bloody,it is from the blood of our own wounds.it is from the blood of our own wounds.The grotesque scars we bear on our The grotesque scars we bear on our

bodies bodies testify to battles foughttestify to battles foughtthat went unrecognized.that went unrecognized.

But the next storm will unfurl our flagBut the next storm will unfurl our flagand uproot the rotted trees!and uproot the rotted trees!Then we, together with the gusting wind,Then we, together with the gusting wind,will scale Spilberk’s heights,will scale Spilberk’s heights,and stand in victory on the peaks of cliffs,and stand in victory on the peaks of cliffs,Our hair blowing freely in the wind.Our hair blowing freely in the wind.

Jirka PolakJirka Polak

Nely Silvinova was born in Prague on December 21, 1931 and Nely Silvinova was born in Prague on December 21, 1931 and deported to Terezin on August 10, 1942. She has 17 drawings deported to Terezin on August 10, 1942. She has 17 drawings

included in this collection. At Terezin, Nely lived in house included in this collection. At Terezin, Nely lived in house number 14 and belonged to Group V. She was a student of number 14 and belonged to Group V. She was a student of Friedl Dicker-Brandeis. Nely’s watercolor is an abstract on Friedl Dicker-Brandeis. Nely’s watercolor is an abstract on

the cover of a sketchbook.the cover of a sketchbook.

To OlgaTo Olga

Listen!Listen!The boat whistle has sounded The boat whistle has sounded

nownowAnd we must sailAnd we must sailOut toward an unknown port.Out toward an unknown port.

We’ll sail a long, long wayWe’ll sail a long, long wayAnd dreams will turn to truth.And dreams will turn to truth.Oh, how sweet the name Oh, how sweet the name

Morocco!Morocco!Listen!Listen!Now it’s time.Now it’s time.

The wind sings songs of far The wind sings songs of far away,away,

Just look up to heavenJust look up to heavenAnd think about the violets.And think about the violets.

Listen!Listen!Now it’s time.Now it’s time.


Pavel Sonnenschein was born on April 9, 1931. He was Pavel Sonnenschein was born on April 9, 1931. He was deported to Terezin on July 9, 1942. His work below is deported to Terezin on July 9, 1942. His work below is

a watercolor and ink of a courtyard on used paper.a watercolor and ink of a courtyard on used paper.




And for the work “when?”And for the work “when?”


of war.of war.




This evening I walked along the This evening I walked along the street of death.street of death.On one wagon, they were taking On one wagon, they were taking the dead away.the dead away.

Why so many marches have Why so many marches have been drummed here?been drummed here?


ThenThenA week after the end,A week after the end,Everything will be empty here.Everything will be empty here.A hungry dove will peck for A hungry dove will peck for bread. bread. In the middle of the street will In the middle of the street will standstandAn empty, dirtyAn empty, dirtyHearse.Hearse.

AnonymousAnonymous

Sona Spitzova was born on February 17, 1931 and Sona Spitzova was born on February 17, 1931 and deported to Terezin from Prague on December 10, deported to Terezin from Prague on December 10,

1941.1941.

““Starlight in a Dark RoomStarlight in a Dark Room,” crayon and pencil drawing by Sona ,” crayon and pencil drawing by Sona SpitzovaSpitzova

FearFearToday the ghetto knows a different Today the ghetto knows a different

fear,fear,Close in its grip, Death wields an icy Close in its grip, Death wields an icy

scythe.scythe.An evil sickness spreads a terror in its An evil sickness spreads a terror in its

wake,wake,The victims of its shadow weep and The victims of its shadow weep and

writhe.writhe.

Today a father’s heartbeat tells his Today a father’s heartbeat tells his frightfright

And mothers bend their heads into And mothers bend their heads into their hands.their hands.

Now children choke and die with Now children choke and die with typhus here,typhus here,

A bitter tax is taken from their bands.A bitter tax is taken from their bands.

My heart still beats inside my breastMy heart still beats inside my breastWhile friends depart for other worlds.While friends depart for other worlds.Perhaps it’s better—who can say?---Perhaps it’s better—who can say?---Than watching this, to die today?Than watching this, to die today?

No, no, my God, we want to live!No, no, my God, we want to live!Not watch our numbers melt away.Not watch our numbers melt away.We want to have a better world,We want to have a better world,We want to work—we must not die!We want to work—we must not die!

Eva Pickova, 12 years old, NymburkEva Pickova, 12 years old, Nymburk

Alena Synkova was born Alena Synkova was born in Prague on September in Prague on September 24, 1926 and deported to 24, 1926 and deported to Terezin on December 22, Terezin on December 22,

1942. Her poem, “I’d 1942. Her poem, “I’d Like To Go Alone,” next Like To Go Alone,” next slide, was found written slide, was found written on a scrap of yellowed on a scrap of yellowed

paper with her name on paper with her name on the back in ink.the back in ink.

“Nazi Threatening a Jew,” pencil drawing on paper, signed on back “Beutler, Jiri, 2 32.”

I’d Like To Go AloneI’d Like To Go Alone

I’d like to go away aloneI’d like to go away alone

Where there are other, nicer Where there are other, nicer people,people,

Somewhere into the far Somewhere into the far unknown,unknown,

There, where no one kills There, where no one kills another.another.

Maybe more of us,Maybe more of us,

A thousand strong,A thousand strong,

Will reach this goalWill reach this goal

Before too long.Before too long.


Erika Taussigova was born Erika Taussigova was born in Prague on October 28, in Prague on October 28,

1934 and deported to 1934 and deported to Terezin on December 17, Terezin on December 17, 1941. She is represented 1941. She is represented in the collection with 16 in the collection with 16 drawings, most of them drawings, most of them

pastels and watercolors. pastels and watercolors. From careful inspections of From careful inspections of

inscriptions on her inscriptions on her drawings, we learn that drawings, we learn that

Erika lived in house Erika lived in house number CIII and later number CIII and later

block IV. She dedicated block IV. She dedicated one of her drawings, one of her drawings,

“Heart with a Horseshoe,” “Heart with a Horseshoe,” to her teacher, Friedl to her teacher, Friedl

Dicker-Brandeis. Erika’s Dicker-Brandeis. Erika’s piece shown to the right is piece shown to the right is

a pencil and watercolor a pencil and watercolor drawing of a room with a drawing of a room with a

bunk bed.bunk bed.

IllnessIllness

Sadness, stillness in the room.Sadness, stillness in the room.

In the middle, a table and a bed.In the middle, a table and a bed.

In the bed, a feverish boy.In the bed, a feverish boy.

His mother sits next to himHis mother sits next to him

With a little book.With a little book.

She reads him his favorite storyShe reads him his favorite story

And immediately, the fever And immediately, the fever subsides.subsides.


Sonja Waldsteinova was born in Prague on November 28, Sonja Waldsteinova was born in Prague on November 28, 1926, and was deported to Terezin on March 6, 1943. She is 1926, and was deported to Terezin on March 6, 1943. She is represented in the collection with 4 drawings. Her drawings represented in the collection with 4 drawings. Her drawings

differ from the other children because they are mature differ from the other children because they are mature sketches, the work of a trained talented pupil who did not sketches, the work of a trained talented pupil who did not

limit herself to class assignment.limit herself to class assignment.

““Terezin BarracksTerezin Barracks” Watercolor on tinted paper by Sonja Waldsteinova” Watercolor on tinted paper by Sonja Waldsteinova

At TerezinAt Terezin

When a new child comesWhen a new child comesEverything seems strange to him.Everything seems strange to him.What, on the ground I have to lie?What, on the ground I have to lie?Eat black potatoes? No! Not I!Eat black potatoes? No! Not I!I’ve got to stay? It’s dirty here!I’ve got to stay? It’s dirty here!The floor—why, look, it’s dirt, I fear!The floor—why, look, it’s dirt, I fear!And I’m supposed to sleep on it?And I’m supposed to sleep on it?I’ll get all dirty!I’ll get all dirty!

Here the sound of shouting, cries,Here the sound of shouting, cries,And oh, so many flies.And oh, so many flies.Everyone knows flies carry disease.Everyone knows flies carry disease.Oooh, something bit me! Wasn’t that Oooh, something bit me! Wasn’t that

a bedbug?a bedbug?Here in Terezin, life is hellHere in Terezin, life is hellAnd when I’ll go home again, I can’t And when I’ll go home again, I can’t

yet tell.yet tell.

TeddyTeddyL410, 1943L410, 1943

Petr Weidmann was born on September 1, 1931. He Petr Weidmann was born on September 1, 1931. He was deported to Terezin from Prague on November 20, was deported to Terezin from Prague on November 20,

1942. Petr has a crayon drawing in the collection.1942. Petr has a crayon drawing in the collection.

““View of TerezinView of Terezin” Crayon drawing signed in pencil by Petr Weidmann” Crayon drawing signed in pencil by Petr Weidmann

It All Depends On How You It All Depends On How You Look At ItLook At It

I.I.Terezin is full of beauty.Terezin is full of beauty.It’s in your eyes now clearIt’s in your eyes now clearAnd through the street the trampAnd through the street the trampOf many marching feet I hear.Of many marching feet I hear.

II.II.Death, after all, claims everyone,Death, after all, claims everyone,You find it everywhere.You find it everywhere.It catches up with even those It catches up with even those Who wear their noses in the air.Who wear their noses in the air.

The whole, wide world is ruledThe whole, wide world is ruledWith a certain justice, soWith a certain justice, soThat helps perhaps to sweetenThat helps perhaps to sweetenThe poor man’s pain and woe.The poor man’s pain and woe.

Miroslav KosekMiroslav Kosek

Hannus Weinberg was born on August 18, 1931 and Hannus Weinberg was born on August 18, 1931 and deported to Terezin on December 5, 1942. Two of his deported to Terezin on December 5, 1942. Two of his

watercolors and two pencil sketches are included in the watercolors and two pencil sketches are included in the collection. In Terezin, he lived in the boys’ dormitory collection. In Terezin, he lived in the boys’ dormitory

II.II.

““View of Terezin” Paper collage by Hanus WeinbergView of Terezin” Paper collage by Hanus Weinberg


I.I.Who was helpless back in Prague,Who was helpless back in Prague,And who was rich before, And who was rich before, He’s a poor soul here in Terezin,He’s a poor soul here in Terezin,His body’s bruised and sore.His body’s bruised and sore.



26. II. 194426. II. 1944

Doris Weiserova was born on May 17, 1932 and Doris Weiserova was born on May 17, 1932 and deported to Terezin from Olomouc on June 30, 1942. deported to Terezin from Olomouc on June 30, 1942.

She drew a crayon and pencil drawing of Passover.She drew a crayon and pencil drawing of Passover.

““Passover SederPassover Seder,” crayon and pencil drawing by Doris Weiserova.,” crayon and pencil drawing by Doris Weiserova.


I.I.Who was helpless back in Prague,Who was helpless back in Prague,And who was rich before, And who was rich before, He’s a poor soul here in Terezin,He’s a poor soul here in Terezin,His body’s bruised and sore.His body’s bruised and sore.



26. II. 194426. II. 1944

Alfred Weisskopf was Alfred Weisskopf was born on January 24, 1932 born on January 24, 1932 in Prague and deported in Prague and deported to Terezin on December to Terezin on December

22, 1942. He has 7 22, 1942. He has 7 drawings in this drawings in this

collection of children’s collection of children’s art from Terezin, and art from Terezin, and

these are the most these are the most interesting because they interesting because they take their themes from take their themes from

Terezin itself and its Terezin itself and its environs. He lived in environs. He lived in

building L417 and house building L417 and house number 10. On the back number 10. On the back

of a glossy red paper, of a glossy red paper, Alfred drew a pencil Alfred drew a pencil

sketch of a ghetto guard.sketch of a ghetto guard.

TerezinTerezin

The heaviest wheel rolls across The heaviest wheel rolls across our foreheadsour foreheads

To bury itself deep somewhere To bury itself deep somewhere inside our memories.inside our memories.

We’ve suffered here more than We’ve suffered here more than enough,enough,

Here in this clot of grief and Here in this clot of grief and shame,shame,

Wanting a badge of blindnessWanting a badge of blindnessTo be a proof for their own To be a proof for their own

children.children.

A fourth year of waiting, like A fourth year of waiting, like standing above a swampstanding above a swamp

From which any moment might From which any moment might gush forth a spring.gush forth a spring.

Meanwhile, the rivers flow Meanwhile, the rivers flow another way,another way,

Another way,Another way,Not letting you die, not letting Not letting you die, not letting

you live.you live.

And the cannons don’t scream And the cannons don’t scream and the guns don’t barkand the guns don’t barkAnd you don’t see blood here.And you don’t see blood here.Nothing, only silent hunger.Nothing, only silent hunger.Children steal the bread here Children steal the bread here and ask and askand ask and ask

And ask.And ask.And all would wish to sleep, And all would wish to sleep, keep silent, andkeep silent, andJust to go to sleep again…Just to go to sleep again…

The heaviest wheel rolls The heaviest wheel rolls across our foreheadsacross our foreheadsTo bury itself deep To bury itself deep somewhere inside our somewhere inside our memories.memories.

Mif, 1944Mif, 1944

Helga Weissova was Helga Weissova was born in Prague on born in Prague on

November 10, 1929. November 10, 1929. she was deported to she was deported to

Terezin at age 12 with Terezin at age 12 with her mother and father. her mother and father. Too old to participate in Too old to participate in

children’s drawing children’s drawing classes, she drew classes, she drew

independently and also independently and also illustrated a book illustrated a book

written by her father. written by her father. Helga created an ink Helga created an ink

and watercolor drawing and watercolor drawing of someone checking of someone checking

for lice.for lice.

Lights OutLights Out

……Three young boys ran away. For that we have already had a week Three young boys ran away. For that we have already had a week of “confinement to barracks” and “lights out.” We walk only in of “confinement to barracks” and “lights out.” We walk only in columns to work, and after six o’clock in the evening, no one is columns to work, and after six o’clock in the evening, no one is allowed on the street. We come home from work in the dark and in allowed on the street. We come home from work in the dark and in the morning we go to work in the dark. We dress and undress by the morning we go to work in the dark. We dress and undress by the touch system. Our windows must be darkened and it is the touch system. Our windows must be darkened and it is forbidden to have any sort of light. Tomorrow I’m going to the forbidden to have any sort of light. Tomorrow I’m going to the Hamburg barracks for bread and perhaps I’ll manage to see Mom…Hamburg barracks for bread and perhaps I’ll manage to see Mom…

““Confinement” has been canceled, but “lights out” continues, Confinement” has been canceled, but “lights out” continues, evidently for the whole winter. We have to save on electricity. evidently for the whole winter. We have to save on electricity. Each of the different blocks gets it every third day in turn. We may Each of the different blocks gets it every third day in turn. We may use candles for light, but they don’t last long. Supplies from home use candles for light, but they don’t last long. Supplies from home are being used up and we can’t manage to get more. It is terribly are being used up and we can’t manage to get more. It is terribly stupid, we can’t ev en read in the evening. Without light everything stupid, we can’t ev en read in the evening. Without light everything is so sad and gloomy. I am awfully homesick for Prague. Evening is so sad and gloomy. I am awfully homesick for Prague. Evening after evening Franka and I recall things in Prague far into the night after evening Franka and I recall things in Prague far into the night and often we dream of it in our sleep….and often we dream of it in our sleep….

Last night I had a beautiful dream. I dreamed that I was at Last night I had a beautiful dream. I dreamed that I was at home, I saw quite clearly our flat and street. Now I am home, I saw quite clearly our flat and street. Now I am disappointed and out of sorts, because I awoke in the bunk instead disappointed and out of sorts, because I awoke in the bunk instead of my own bed. But maybe this was some sort of omen of an early of my own bed. But maybe this was some sort of omen of an early end. Then there should be permanent “lights out” all over end. Then there should be permanent “lights out” all over Germany….Germany….

Old people’s transport. Ten thousand sick, crippled, dying , all of Old people’s transport. Ten thousand sick, crippled, dying , all of them over sixty-five years old.them over sixty-five years old.


It’s horrible everywhere. The rays of sun fall exactly on my bunk It’s horrible everywhere. The rays of sun fall exactly on my bunk and reach on farther, I try in vain to get away from them into the shade. and reach on farther, I try in vain to get away from them into the shade. Today I shan’t go and report for “Service.” I haven’t left out a day yet, Today I shan’t go and report for “Service.” I haven’t left out a day yet, but I am too exhausted to stand the sight of misery and suffering again. but I am too exhausted to stand the sight of misery and suffering again. The old people’s transport, the young people cannot volunteer. Children The old people’s transport, the young people cannot volunteer. Children have to let their old parents go off and can’t help them. Why do they have to let their old parents go off and can’t help them. Why do they want to send these defenseless people away? If they want to get rid of want to send these defenseless people away? If they want to get rid of us young people, I can understand that, maybe they are afraid of us, us young people, I can understand that, maybe they are afraid of us, don’t want us to give birth to any ore Jewish children. But how can don’t want us to give birth to any ore Jewish children. But how can these old people be dangerous? If they had to come here to Terezin, these old people be dangerous? If they had to come here to Terezin, isn’t that enough, cant they let them die in peace here? After all, these isn’t that enough, cant they let them die in peace here? After all, these old people can’t hope for anything else….old people can’t hope for anything else….

The barracks by the physical culture hall must be cleared out, a The barracks by the physical culture hall must be cleared out, a special dinner is being cooked, and the reception center is getting ready. special dinner is being cooked, and the reception center is getting ready. They say some Polish children are coming. This is all incomprehensible. They say some Polish children are coming. This is all incomprehensible. Why, and how does it ha;ppen that they are brought here from Poland? Why, and how does it ha;ppen that they are brought here from Poland?

They came yesterday at five o’clock. No one is allowed near They came yesterday at five o’clock. No one is allowed near them. In the night they called some nurses, guards, and doctors. them. In the night they called some nurses, guards, and doctors. Besides these no one is allowed near their barracks….You can see them Besides these no one is allowed near their barracks….You can see them a little from the fortress wall, and then they went in the morning to the a little from the fortress wall, and then they went in the morning to the reception center….They are all barelegged and only a very few have reception center….They are all barelegged and only a very few have shoes. They returned from the reception center with their heads shaved, shoes. They returned from the reception center with their heads shaved, they have lice. They all have such frightened eyes….they have lice. They all have such frightened eyes….

Yesterday they were taken off, doctors, nurses, and guards with Yesterday they were taken off, doctors, nurses, and guards with them….them….

Where they came from we never found out, nor where they were Where they came from we never found out, nor where they were taken either. Rumors were circulating about deportation to Palestine, taken either. Rumors were circulating about deportation to Palestine, but no one believes this. They have gone. All that is left is a few lines but no one believes this. They have gone. All that is left is a few lines scribbled on the wall of the barracks that hardly anyone can figure out.scribbled on the wall of the barracks that hardly anyone can figure out.

From the diary of Helga WeissovaFrom the diary of Helga Weissova

Ilona Weissova (female) was born on March 6, 1932 and Ilona Weissova (female) was born on March 6, 1932 and deported to Terezin from Prague on December 14, deported to Terezin from Prague on December 14,

1941. Ilona created a pencil drawing of an ambulance.1941. Ilona created a pencil drawing of an ambulance.

Thereienstadt’s HospitalThereienstadt’s Hospital

Once, happier people lived hereOnce, happier people lived hereIn the gray building.In the gray building.Now, death moves silently toward Now, death moves silently toward

those other creatures,those other creatures,Whose with typhoid, who moan Whose with typhoid, who moan

and writheand writheIn their own diarrhea,In their own diarrhea,Who lie here and don’t understandWho lie here and don’t understandWhy they are being fed bread and Why they are being fed bread and

margarine.margarine.I enter and become silent.I enter and become silent.

““You shiny new doorknobs,You shiny new doorknobs,You pretty painted walls in the You pretty painted walls in the

bright ward,bright ward,Can you make up for the stench of Can you make up for the stench of

excrement?excrement?Can you appease the hungerCan you appease the hungerOf those who are ashamed of their Of those who are ashamed of their

underwear,underwear,And brought here to die,And brought here to die,Day by day?”Day by day?”

The paint looks at me and The paint looks at me and doesn’t answer.doesn’t answer.““Why? I don’t understand Why? I don’t understand why!”why!”It seems the doorknob would It seems the doorknob would say,say,When it opened for me,When it opened for me,A free soul, with a full A free soul, with a full stomach,stomach,““I can tell youI can tell youAnd then you will come to And then you will come to me!”me!”

AnonymousAnonymous

Zuzana Winterova was born on January 27, 1933, in Brno, and Zuzana Winterova was born on January 27, 1933, in Brno, and deported to Terezin on April 11, 1942. She is represented in the deported to Terezin on April 11, 1942. She is represented in the

collection of children’s drawings from Terezin by pastel collection of children’s drawings from Terezin by pastel drawings and a sketch. The image below is of a man holding a drawings and a sketch. The image below is of a man holding a

newspaper with an incorrectly written inscription, Tagesbehfel, newspaper with an incorrectly written inscription, Tagesbehfel, which is an official Terezin bulletin. It’s a detail from a larger which is an official Terezin bulletin. It’s a detail from a larger

drawing entitled drawing entitled Scenes from Life at TerezinScenes from Life at Terezin completed in completed in pencil and pastel crayon on semi-glossy yellow paper.pencil and pastel crayon on semi-glossy yellow paper.

UntitledUntitled

I’ve met enough people.I’ve met enough people.Seldom a human being.Seldom a human being.Therefore, I will wait—Therefore, I will wait—until my life’s purposeuntil my life’s purposeis fulfilledis fulfilledand you will come.and you will come.

Though there is anguishThough there is anguishdeep in my soul—deep in my soul—what if I must search for you what if I must search for you

forever?—forever?—I must not lose faith,I must not lose faith,I must not lose hope.I must not lose hope.


Eva WollsteinerovaEva Wollsteinerova was born on January 24, 1931. Her pencil was born on January 24, 1931. Her pencil drawing below shows the barracks of Terzin.drawing below shows the barracks of Terzin.

An Evening At TerezinAn Evening At Terezin

The sun goes downThe sun goes downand everything is silent,and everything is silent,Only at the guard’s postOnly at the guard’s postAre heavy footfalls heard.Are heavy footfalls heard.

That’s the guard who watches That’s the guard who watches his Jewshis Jews

To make sure they don’t run To make sure they don’t run away from the ghetto,away from the ghetto,

Or that an Aryan aunt or Or that an Aryan aunt or uncleuncle

Doesn’t try to get in.Doesn’t try to get in.

Ten o’clock strikes suddenly,Ten o’clock strikes suddenly,And the windows of Dresden’s And the windows of Dresden’s

barracks darken.barracks darken.The women have a lot to talk The women have a lot to talk

about; they remember about; they remember their homes, their homes,

And dinners they made. And dinners they made.

Then some of them argue.Then some of them argue.Others try to quiet them down.Others try to quiet them down.Finally, one by one, they grow Finally, one by one, they grow

silent;silent;They toss and turn, and in the They toss and turn, and in the

end,end,They fall asleep.They fall asleep.

How many more evenings will How many more evenings will we have to live like this?we have to live like this?

We do not know,We do not know,Only god knows.Only god knows.

Eva SchulzovaEva Schulzova

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