Book details

  • Genre:biography & autobiography
  • Sub-genre:Jewish
  • Language:English
  • Pages:210
  • eBook ISBN:9798317802608

Hotel Colombia

My Family's Immigration Story

By MICHAEL LIFFMANN

Overview

A proud memoir that traces my Liffmann, Gottschalk, Hess and Harf heritage from Germany's Rhineland starting in the late 1700's until today. I am an immigrant from Colombia and the son of Holocaust survivors that managed to escape Nazi Germany in 1937-1938. It's important that future generations of Liffmanns, particularly those living in the United States, Colombia, Israel and Australia, know as much about their heritage as possible. Our family's story—where we come from, what we've been through, the values we've carried forward—shapes who we are today.
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Description

"Hotel Colombia" traces the Liffmann/Harf and Gottschalk/Hess lineage from Germany's Rhineland to Colombia where I was born and raised. Our ancestors were modest farmers and small town merchants that seldom ventured far beyond their communities. Several dozen family members tragically perished during the Holocaust but a few, including my parents, were fortunate and emigrated in 1937-38 to Cali and Bogotá. I was motivated to write this book because it's essential that future generations of Liffmanns—especially those living in the United States, Colombia, Israel, and Australia—develop a deep understanding of their heritage. Our family's journey, the challenges we've faced, and the values that have guided us all contribute to the identity we share today.
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About The Author

Mike was born and raised in Colombia and, as a foreign student, came to the United States in 1965. He and his Brazilian-born wife, Christy, and most of his closest relatives now live in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. "Hotel Colombia" was written because it's important that future generations of Liffmanns know as much about their heritage as possible. Our family's story—where we come from, what we've been through, the values we've carried forward—shapes who we are today. Preserving and passing down this history isn't just about remembering the past; it's about giving future Liffmanns a deeper sense of identity, belonging, and pride. When we understand our roots, we gain perspective, resilience, and a stronger connection to one another. Heritage is a living legacy, and it's up to us to ensure it continues to grow with each generation.
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