Family Info and great history
Here are some books you might find of interest:
Ann Angel's Freedom; by Katharina Gerlach (Author), Anke Waldmann (Collaborator); 2007
Based on facts, the novel tells the story of Ann Angel Waldmann whose father decides to accept their Count's offer to buy their freedom. It is set in the rural area around Osnabrueck at the turn of the 18th century, a time when old values are questioned. In spite of new ideas, individual freedom is a frightening dream for most people. It is a time of change, where Ann Angel Waldmann, daughter of a rich farmer, has to cope with the obstacles life puts in her way. Bestselling author Holly Lisle describes the novel as follows: "Ann Angel's Freedom is an amazing, beautifully researched, well-written tale of a world and a time far different from our own, but one that still resonates with the struggles we all face today. I found myself suffering with Ann and those she loved, hoping for her, and in the end cheering with her. It's a wonderful story, made more wonderful because it's true." Here is the link to the reference material provided at the end of this book.
Victor's Rage (Waldmann Family Saga Book 2)
The second book in the series and the sequel to Ann Angel's Freedom is Victor's Rage. It covers the time period from 1830-1850 and explores the reasons people around Osnabrück Germany wanted to leave and emigrate to the USA. The reference documents are available at the end of the book and here. These provide significant details on how life was lived in this area during that time frame. This book is only available via Kindle as of Summer 2018.
"Mr. Anonymous", The Story of William Volker by Herbert C. Cornuelle; The Caxton Printers, Ltd. 1951
Here are some links to other websites that you might find of interest:
The Twenhafel/WelplRussell Family Tree (Johann Kleiboeker's sister Eliza married a Heinrich Welp)
The Meyer Family Tree (Johann Kleiboeker's son Henry married Anna Meyer of Freistatt)
Routes to the Roots (a website on German Americans from the University of Oldenburg, Germany