3.  WHY THE FUSTS LEFT MECKLENBURG

Mecklenburg had the highest percentage of emigrants of any of the German states.  While conditions in other areas improved, Mecklenburg peasants had little reason to hope for a better future.  After living in grinding poverty with limited freedom and few opportunities, many like the Fritz Fust family saw immigration to America as a new chance at life.

GETTING READY TO LEAVE GERMANY

The immigrants had to go through several steps before the authorities would grant them permission to leave the country.  They had to prove that they had enough money to pay for their voyage and had a contract for the voyage plus 50 Thalers, that they had no debts, and that they had sold their houses and all other property.  The Fusts must have saved their money for years in order to afford to immigrate to America.  Also, the sons had to first complete their compulsory military service.