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Lot #538
Texas: Fallersleben, Hoffman von

Star of Texas: A German romantic’s ode to the Lone Star State

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Description

Star of Texas: A German romantic’s ode to the Lone Star State

German poet (1798–1874) best known as the author of “Das Lied der Deutschen” (a.k.a. “Deutschland über alles”), the national anthem of Germany. Unsigned manuscript quotation, the text of his poem “Der Stern von Texas” [The Star of Texas], one page both sides, 4.25 x 7, 1845. This four-stanza poem had its origin in Fallersleben’s friendship with Gustav Dresel, first German consul to Texas, who had kept a journal of his travels in Texas and shown it to the poet. Inspired by the descriptions in Dresel’s journal, Fallersleben penned this ode to the state’s distinctive flag. The poet developed a strong affinity for this land he would never visit, later compiling a collection of thirty-one “Texas Songs” and including the state as a setting in an opera libretto. (He approached a number of composers, including Robert Schumann, to provide a musical setting, but was ultimately unsuccessful). A group tried to convince the poet to move to Texas, deeding him 300 acres and even pledging to name a town after him, but Fallersleben never made the journey to the New World. Small crease and tiny chip to one corner, otherwise fine, clean condition. An outstanding and unusual example of early Texiana! R&R COA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title:
  • Dates: #321 - Ended May 16, 2007