Last letter

Ludwig grew up in a Jewish family in Berlin. When the Nazis took power in Germany, life quickly worsened for the Jews. Ludwig witnessed both violence and pogroms against Jews.

Ludwig managed to escape from Nazi Germany and came to Sweden in January 1939 through the Kindertransport, an operation aimed at bringing Jewish children to safety in other countries. Now a frequent exchange of letters began with the family who were still in Berlin. Ludwig's parents Anna and Sigfried applied for residence permits in different countries but were constantly rejected.

My beloved boy, Don't be sad if you don't hear from us for a while. We will let you know our new address later. We are healthy and that is the most important thing.

A glimmer of hope was lit when a relative of the family stepped in to guarantee the parents’ livelihood in Sweden. For a brief minute, everything looked bright. But the parents was not able to leave in time and on January 25, 1942, Anna and Sigfried were deported to Riga. That is where all traces end.

In the last letter from Anna Posner to her son Ludwig, dated January 21, 1942, Anna wrote:

“My beloved boy,
Don’t be sad if you don’t hear from us for a while. We will let you know our new address later. We are healthy and that is the most important thing. Just be sensible and follow Aunt Wally’s and Manfred’s advice a little, they have more experience than you and want you well. You must be a support for us later, dear child. Above all, hold your head high, just as we do. Stay healthy too, and receive the warmest greetings and kisses with love from your mother.”