Wolfe Tone Tales: UNU Universe

By Noel McGrath

"Hello reader. Yes I'm staring at you and speaking. You find it odd that I broke from the fourth wall, or what I personally consider a fourth set of eyes. My name's Abraham, and I'm a historian of my family's history. Now I wonder what a historian is doing, introducing you to this rabbit hole you're about to enter. I can think of no better choice as I regale you with stories of family members from the ancient past to the present day. You have a front row seat as we take a glimpse of the various long and complex history that makes up the UNU nation. Feel free to sit next to my thirty-two grandchildren and wonder about the lives ordinary people experienced in both mundane and interesting periods of the past. As you get a picture of how our nation rose to become the power it is today I ask you to remember one thing. We are not fictional characters, we are not here for your entertainment. We are real people trying to live our lives, I hope you see us as such, and care for us as the living individuals who stand right before you. For those of us on this side of the spectrum, we see you looking and wondering what we're thinking. We wonder and think what compelled you to sit down and listen to me ramble of times long past."
"Grandfather... who are you talking to?"
"Manuel, you're here. Look very carefully and you can see the person who will be joining us on our history tour."
"I don't see anyone. Can you please help us with our history project now? I'm still not sure which ancestor to choose for the ten-thousandth anniversary of the founding of the first galactic nation in."
"Patience, lad, I've got plenty to discuss. And while I'm at it maybe try and spot the individual joining us with their fourth set of eyes."
"I don't see anyone but us. I think you're going crazy."
"Aww, I'm sure you'll figure it out in the epilogue. Join your siblings as I get ready. We have so many stories to discuss, from the first family refugees to the presidents of this great nation. Also take a look at any objects or events you see around you. Just looking at the mundane... there is a story in history behind how it came into existence. There is a story of every little thing around you that created the UNU."
"Like this sword and ring you're holding?"
"Yes, these little objects... obscure now, but something that changed the course of history from our family's point of veiw. Everything I speak may not be accurate, as with all history it comes from a certain point of view... our family's history, our legacy, our stories."

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Jan 20, 2024
• ISBN: 9798350942200

Book preview

Prologue

Prologue

Memories in the Attic

Manuel Juan Antonio de La Argüello Wolfe Tone

1299 ANAE

Manuel and his siblings were all covered with dust and jumbled together in one dysfunctional pile. On top of them a series of family collections and memories formed a cocoon around the children. The excitement of going through entire generations of family history really caused such a mess.

Ashley, get off of me! Albert shouted.

You’re sitting on my chest! Ezperanza punched her older brother.

I told you to stop touching things Peter and Paul! Thomas tried to crawl out of the massive tangle.

This is your fault Zoe! Samantha chimed in.

All of you just shut it and get off of me! Augusto, the oldest, called out.

One by one everyone piled off of each other, and walked away from the pile, standing once more in the center of the attic. What do we do now? Manuel wondered.

We’ll blame the twins for playing around too much. Augusto said. Our parents are going to kill us if we broke anything. Quickly grab something and check to see if its damaged.

Everyone quickly separated the pile of family treasures and examined to see it anything was wrecked. The mood was tense, as the children separated items into different piles. Manuel was quick to examine the contents of old pictures and items. He noticed they had aged beyond years, as if coming from a different time all together. They were actual photos on pieces of paper-like sheets, called canvas. Manuel was shocked, he never saw one made from such flimsy material his entire life. Most photos were digital, and paper was now considered an ancient piece of writing material, only used by lesser species.

I wonder who these people are? Manuel whispered to his half-brother Augusto.

Augusto examined one of the photos. They’re probably people from ultra ancient human history. Wow, I never saw people dress like that. Manuel make sure none of those photos are bent, I’m not taking the blame for this.

Blame for what? An old voice called out.

Everyone screamed in a panic, when they stopped and turned their heads. Near the end of the messy hallway stood an old man, feeble and gray. He held a cane in one hand and a flatans in the other. Great-great-great-granddad! One of the children shouted. We’re sorry, we didn’t mean it! Blame Augusto, he led us up here!

I’m not the one who caused this mess! The twins are to blame! Augusto shouted back.

Yeah, they were the ones running around! Thomas added.

The old man placed his hand up before the children could continue to argue. He scanned the room then gave a calm chuckle. So you lot are interested in our family’s history?

Yes, granddad. The children nodded as they bowed their heads.

Can I ask what brought this on? The old man, named Abraham, asked.

Well since the year 2300 ANAE is coming up the school district is presenting a theme next semester regarding family lineage and ancestry as far back as ancient human history. The teachers want us to start researching family ancestors over the summer. Thomas explained.

And, well? Since our family is so famous the teachers are saying they have high hopes for us. Kathy added.

Our principles are pressuring us to do something grand. They are so excited to hear what family figure each of us will present. Samantha said.

Why didn’t you ask us for help? Abraham moved over to a pile of jewelry.

We asked our parents, but they didn’t know much. They told us to look in the storage building if we wanted. Augusto explained.

Abraham chuckled again, then he sat in an old rocking chair away from the pile. My children, you will be here all the centuries of my life if you try to find all the secrets of our family.

The children froze, then they started to complain. That long!

I don’t want to do this! Zoe, the youngest, pouted.

I’d rather play virtual games! "Karl frowned.

I could be hanging out with my friends! Ika added.

That’s too much pressure! "Shuichi bit her lip.

Calm down children, all you need to do is focus on a specific time period, and then pick a Wolfe Tone from that moment. It’s only difficult if you dive in head first… then you will be like lost lambs. Abraham reassured everyone.

Oh I don’t get this anymore! Why couldn’t we have some obscure family to work with? Albert complained.

Abraham laughed as he observed the frustration on their faces. Manuel looked at his siblings complain then at his elder. This whole time he held the dusty ring he found. He walked up to him and showed it. Grandad, where is this from?

At first Abraham was stunned then he calmed himself and took it. This, this is the very ring the earliest known Wolfe Tone gave to his wife before they fled the Ukraine to Ireland. Mien gutt, the historical value, the family treasure this ring has. You cannot describe how important it is to the family. We thought we lost it many years ago. You can’t express how important a symbol it is to our family.

Manuel felt enamored by his elder’s joy when thinking back on family history. Granddad, you know so much about our family?

Yeah, you wrote that new family volume years ago, how did you do that? Theobold chimed in.

Abraham smiled. Well you lads and lassies may not know it but we always have at least one family member every century whose job it is to document the family’s history. Our family is vast, spanning multiple galaxies, times, eras, and star systems. We have always been a family of mystery, finding ourselves randomly placed in history’s greatest moments. My task is to know where we came from, and how we got here now.

In a moment of silence, Manuel’s look began to change. That’s awesome, you know about our family history that deeply?

Of course, why do you think you see me enter the attic all the time? Abraham nodded.

Wait, if you know so much, could you help us with our project? Manuel’s smile widened.

You want my help? Abraham raised an eyebrow.

Yes, would you? We can get our project done quickly if you help us. Augusto added.

We’d be grateful, if you’d tell us everything. Ashley added.

Abraham nodded and thought for a moment. Well, I guess I could help you. You seem like you need direction, but I cannot explain everything in one short rundown. Our family history is complex and vast, you have to be willing to come back to me many days and listen to the stories our family has.

That’s alright, as long as we don’t have to stay in this place for centuries. Peter nodded.

Abraham took in a deep breath. Just so you know I won’t do your projects for you. I will only tell you a little bit and the rest you have to find out yourselves. Hard work is a proper way you children can learn.

We know, but we can get to work faster if you help us. Manuel understood.

Abraham examined the room again. All around him were dozens of eyes staring at him, with hope, excitement, and curious expressions. After a moment of silence Abraham let out a large breath. Alright, alright, I’ll help you. How can I refuse to let my great-great-great grandchildren fail school?

Everyone cheered, dancing about and shouting with joy. We’re saved, we’re saved! They shouted.

But first, one thing. Abraham raised a hand.

Yes. The children stopped and looked at him.

Finish clearing up this mess and put everything back where it came. Then I’ll help you.

Awwwwww!!!!! The children groaned in unison, dreading cleaning up the mess.

Abraham looked at them and laughed hysterically. And to you, dear reader, I must tell you one thing, if you think yourself intrigued about life on this side. This is real life, you are fiction in my eyes. You see me through a fourth set of eyes, and I see you through my forth set of eyes. Our lives are our lives, and this is just history from our perspective, but for you this is your entertainment. I ask you to not think like that, and not forget us as we try to live as best we can no matter the circumstances.

Part 1

Our Beginnings

Ch 1

Family Curse

Shimmel Smelyansky

1769

Hours of back breaking work later and all the family treasures were back in their original places. The children were all tired and wanted to rest. Abraham led them to his personal study, where shelves of electronic books, heirlooms, and knickknacks lined the walls. Flags and portraits of people decorated several areas of the study.

The children grabbed a drink and a snack as Abraham moved his chair away from his desk. He sat in front of the children and examined their tired expressions. When he felt relaxed He finally took a breath. All that hard work paid off. Now if we are going to start off this history lesson we have to go way back to the earliest known Wolfe Tone we have records on. Did you know Wolfe Tone is not our original name? We were once called Smelyansky, and we use to live somewhere in Eastern Europe, probably Ukraine, the Urels or the Caucasus.

We never were called Wolfe Tones? Manuel raised his hand. So we’re originally from the gate between Europe and Asia?

Yes, but the few records we have are so sketchy you have to take the information with a grain of salt. Now The only Wolfe Tone we can use as a source is Shimmel Smelyansky. He left a couple items and oral tales, written later down by his grandchildren.

Why didn’t he write anything? Esther, the second youngest, asked.

Because back then poor and oppressed people couldn’t write. Abraham leaned back in his chair and examined the ring again. You know there is an interesting little story behind this ring. Most family members think it’s just a fairytale or rumor to explain our run of good and bad luck when it comes to romance, but whether you believe it or not it is a good story to tell.

But aren’t oral tales not very reliable if we’re researching our family history? Augusto asked.

Whether they are accurate or not the oral tradition reflects the nature and cultural relevance of our family history. Abraham nodded and showed off the ring to the children. Let’s begin the first lesson of our family history starting with ancient human history. As you all know our family is Jewish, and our ancestors lived in a time where humans made up a number of stupid excuses just to hate each other. Yes we humans use to persecute each other, and our family was a part of a group that was hated by so many we had to deal with it for countless generations. It’s why our family scattered across the Earth. And from what we found this little story tells you how our family begun their journey, from rags to riches.

…

Shimmel’s legs were aching, the wagon hitched to the lone donkey, pulling what little valuables his family had. Holding onto his larger siblings’ hands he attempted to not lag behind as they walked along a field, on the outskirts of the local village. It was dangerous to go near a town, they risked death if they did. The Christians would probably accuse them for being greedy or killing the kids just to use the blood for their holidays. It scared him, and he couldn’t understand why they came up with these ideas.

We’ll rest over there, in the forest. The local townsfolk won’t follow us there, they believe it is haunted. An old woman said.

The old woman, whom Shimmel’s family had met a couple weeks ago, led the family as they tried to flee the turmoil from the Polish Lithuanian Commonwealth. There was talk of a place across the ocean, where a group of people just like them could find safety on an island, near an unknown continent of wealth.

Have the boys collect firewood, and the girls prepare super, then you can rest. The old woman said.

The old woman was a Romani, who lived by herself in an old carriage, she inherited from her late husband. It shocked Shimmel’s parents that she knew Yiddish, but were quick to accept her kindness and lead them to safety, in exchange for looking after her. The evening began to light up as the family sat down for a nice evening meal. The baby started to cry as Shimmel’s mother began to feed it. The girls were cleaning the few utensils they had. The father smoked his pipe, trying to think what to do next. I need your advise, if you will let me. What should we do when we cross over to the Holy Roman Empire?

Change your name, being Jewish is bad enough, but also a Slav won’t help either. The old woman said.

Will you come with us, or will you split once we reach the Mediterranean Coast? I’d love to travel with you some more. You have been beyond helpful and we’d like to return the favor. The mother asked.

I’m afraid I’ll have to decline going any further. My husband is buried in this area and I wish to die right next to him in the same land. Oh how I loved that man, it saddens me to be apart from him. I await my fate just to see him again.

The night was long as the adults talked and regaled each other with stories and conversation. After super the old woman changed into her sleeping clothes, and ordered one of the girls to fix her hair. The boys cleaned up the old woman’s wagon when Shimmel found an old ring in a bag. Look what I found.

One brother examined it. Wow, if we sell this maybe we can get enough food for the rest of the trip.

Doesn’t it belong to the woman? Shimmel asked.

It’ll be fine. It’s not like she’ll notice, and besides we’re barley scrapping by ever since mum gave birth. The first brother responded.

Why so quick to jump to taking it? Shimmel felt nervous.

Didn’t you see that woman’s hand, she has several rings, I’m sure she’ll not miss this one. The first brother waved the concern away.

After a little debate the boys placed the ring in one of the bags in the family cart. The next day as the family moved further into the forest the old woman seemed sad and distressed. She acted a little hysterical in the morning and remained lost the entire day. The girls conversed with her over something, showing a large degree of empathy and sadness. One of them called out to her after they passed a series of wilted trees. Don’t worry we’ll find it for you, we owe you so much for helping us.

Shimmel looked confused and asked one of his sister’s what they were promising. She lost her most precious ring, the one her late husband gave her when they got married. It means more to her then anything else in the world.

Shimmel felt uncomfortable upon hearing the news. He looked at his brothers and told them. They all gave each other an awkward look and wondered if they had taken her ring. Ok, don’t tell anyone what we did. The oldest said. Right now we need to worry about getting to safety and finding food. We can talk about it once we’re safe.

Despite trying to ignore his conciseness the guilt tore away at Shimmel until he decided he had to act. The next night he went over to the bag and searched through its contents to find the ring, but it was gone. Panicked Shimmel searched all the bags in the cart but found nothing. As he tried to ponder what to do next the old woman walked up behind him. Gather all your brothers and meet me by the rocks. She said in a low voice.

Shimmel did so without hesitation. All the children, accept the baby, gathered around the woman. Silence first called as the wind brushed along the leaves of the trees. I know what you did, and now you betrayed the trust I placed in your family. I took you in, I helped you, I led you to safety, and you repay my kindness by taking what is most precious to me. I’m at least glad some of you have the decency to not break that commandment and shatter your elder’s heart.

The boys remained silent. One of the girls chimed in. I’m terribly sorry Ms. we’ll tell our parents and they can punish our brothers immediately.

The old woman raised her hand. No, they have been nothing but pure treasures, I don’t want to sadden their hearts. To think you boys would do such a terrible thing I will leave a most wretched punishment for your sins, but for you girls I see the noblest aspects of humanity which must be internally rewarded.

We’re sorry. Shimmel and his brothers said weakly.

Blame me. The oldest said. I was only thinking of finding food, and thought your ring could get us some supplies. I talked the rest into following me.

You are all equally guilty, so you all must bear your own burden. The old woman said, then continued on. You will all experience the same tragedy which befell me when I laid my beloved to rest. From here on to the eternal timelines, in all realities, in all universes, in all mysteries, every male or your bloodline shall experience the fate of losing their first love to the hand of death. All that love and hope you will share with that special someone will be taken away at an early age, leaving you widowed, with no escape in any form. But for the women of your bloodline you have showed a remarkable degree of honor and righteousness. I shall place a blessing on you, one that follows you the same way as the eternal curse will follow the men. A blessing of ever loving happiness and success will be your mark into the eternal journey of realities. May you girls see it in your lifetimes, for it shall always exist upon the next generation. May your parents not notice this curse, as they have been the most gracious of people who suffered the pain of fleeing home when the Russian Cossacks came.

The woman’s words terrified the boys for some reason, and afterwards they went to great lengths to be kind to her. She showed little change in how she treated them from before, but they felt her glare on them at times when their parents weren’t looking. The weeks passed by as the family reached the coast and were about to cross the border into the Holy Roman Empire.

I wish you all the best of luck on your journey. The old woman said. When you reach your destination lay low and study the local languages. You may make it if they think you’re an average Prussian, French, or English citizen without having to convert.

We appreciate your help and will think of you when we reach safety. We’ll also name one of the grandchildren after you and your husband. The mother said.

In that case, take this ring, and treasure it amongst your family for generations to come. The old woman handed Shimmer’s parents a ring from her finger. It wasn’t the ring they stole, but it looked pretty similar. The boys immediately grew terrified and slightly cowered behind their sisters.

The parent’s gave the old woman a deep embrace and gave her some of their bread they usually used for their weekly prayers and meals. The family then waved goodbye as they started along a new path to a city as far away as the promised land was to Moses. In the back of his mind Shimmel couldn’t help but think about the ring, that old woman, her curse, and whether if they were ever going to see her again. Shall it be in this lifetime or a lifetime through our descendant?

Ch 2

Pogrom

Moses Smelyansky

1782

Is that how our family got cursed? The youngest child asked. Makes sense.

It’s just a story, but it's a good one we tell to explain the unexplainable. Abraham said.

Is that all we know about Shimmel? Albert asked.

There is a little more, but I’ll let you read up on it in our family library. I’ll leave a file for those of you who want to learn more later. Abraham nodded.

Grandad. Manuel raised his hand. Where did we get our name from?

Sometime after we made it to Germany. Back then there was turmoil all over the world. In the Americas some territory rebelled against the Monarchy of England, France was close to revolution, and the Prussian King refused to grant the Jews citizenship.

Abraham placed the ring down and picked up another item on his desk. This is a wooden inscription, one of the few things left of the family. You can see the name of Moses Smelyansky carved into it. Several years later Shimmel’s family were trying to keep their heads low and find work in the German States. Records were still mostly passed down through oral tradition so take it with a grain of salt. This was the time when our family split into two and we became both German and Irish. Our name references to two family lineages reuniting.

…

Despite the atmosphere of bright new ideals and progressive change life was still harsh for Moses’ family. Every day whenever they went to work they were met with seething looks and rocks being thrown at them. Unlike most people dignity for the Jews was lacking as they were not allowed to own the house they lived in. Brother David was denied a work permit to smith tin in another city, and when he came back he was only allowed to enter the city where the livestock was brought in. It made him sick knowing he had to walk alongside pigs being brought to market. Any chance to complain was met with terror or violence. He once came home with half his his head bleeding. I heard America all groups are fighting for equality. We should go there, maybe we can get work and rights. He said that very evening.

Several days later after a family Shabbat dinner the brothers debated with each other. We cannot go on living like this. David said. We need to gather together and decide our next course of action. There might be work here, but being Jewish makes us unqualified.

Our family name already gives us the impression that we are foreigners, we should change it. Moses said.

No we can’t, our name is a connection to our past in the east. David objected.

That is why it’s hurting us. We can’t make enough money to buy the tickets we need to leave Europe. We should change our names so we can at least integrate and not face percussion. Moses said.

What do you propose? David asked.

Moses thought for a moment, then he looked in the direction where a popular pub stood. Wolfe, after that family who brings us beer.

The Wolfe Family? David stared out in the same direction. Well… it does sound like a local name, not from the east. But, why after that family?

I was just thinking how they always help us out, at the expense of getting harassed. Moses answered. I’d like our family to at least have a decent connection here.

We’ll have to think it over. I’m still reluctant to change it. David said. What would our parents think… maybe abandonment.

With war winding down in the Americas tensions were picking up in Europe again. Moses walked past a large building after delivering cooper to the armory when a large crowd of people began attacking guards and officials. Sir, what’s going on here? He asked a guard.

Get back to your quarters, if you don’t want trouble. The guard responded. These folks are in no mood to see your kind near them. Anger over taxes and hostilities with the neighboring kingdoms are picking up.

In a matter of moments the crowd turned into an armed mob. Terrified Moses ran home, informing his family and the community leaders. I heard what happened, I fear they will come here soon. David said. Get every family member to the synagogue, the community needs to be ready to flee if worse comes to worse!

It was a scenario they had feared, but were used to by now. The entire Jewish community met at night while the armed mob began chanting slogans, terrifying the children. The mothers attempted to comfort the kids, while the men tried to organize a plan to prevent a purge. All the men go to your houses, empty your treasures and convince the mob to disband with wealth. I’ll write a letter to the local prince for help. The rabbi said.

The letter was sent but a reply never came back. The Wolfe Family and some guards were one of the few sympathetic groups in the city that attempted to help, mostly by charting a passageway they could use, before being cut off. They also smuggled any food they could get there hands on. A standoff took place for the next couple days, then someone came back and informed the community that the bribe didn’t work. In fact the mob leaders used the bribe as a pretext to launch an assault on the Jewish community. Screams erupted as windows were smashed and people set fire to houses which had stood for generations.

Rabbi, we did so much and still wait for the Messiah. How long do we have to run before we find our promised land? Moses asked the oldest rabbi, who led the new refugees.

We’ll have to wait and find him in a different time, and a different place. The rabbi spoke softly. "For now grab your things and lead your family to safety.

Chaos quickly spiraled out of control as the first houses and shops were burned. Ignoring everything but their families the community quickly used the last remaining passageway and left the city. In the confusion Moses’ family gathered into a corner near the back of the synagogue and debated what to do and how to survive. In sheer desperation Moses and David handed each other an inscription with their names on it. I don’t know if we can go in the same direction, it could be too dangerous. David said. Take this inscription with my name so you don’t forget me brother, that is our link. If we have to flee don’t wait for us, get to safety. Once one of us finds a safe home then you can help the rest of us make it there too.

Same for you and our younger siblings. Moses nodded.

When a new letter was sent to the town’s leadership, they responded by sending a small note stating they were turning a blind eye to the mob. Moses felt betrayed as he realized the promises they made to the Jewish community was nothing more then hot air, and their only concern was the preservation of their own power. As the mob began killing fleeing people a couple more sympathetic people ran throughout the community shouting at the top of their lungs. Jews get out! Leave this city! The mob’s on its way! Save your families! Every tribe for themselves! Exodus! Someone from the Wolfe Family shouted out.

A stamped soon overwhelmed the people as families quickly raced back to their houses and grabbed any last important values and food. Moses was quick to grab any smithing equipment, as well as a few family trinkets. His wife quickly packed clothes and food as they raced outside the house. At first the family strained to stay together, but soon they were met by a horde of people, now carrying weapons. They chanted and rammed their blades straight into the bodies of those unfortunate enough to run past them.

Chaos ensued as Moses herded his wife and children past the mob to an obscure exit outside the city. Where is everyone! Another family member shouted. I don’t see David!

Oh no, David! Moses felt anxious.

All around them Moses glanced to see if his brother was there, but he couldn’t see anyone. Where was David, and Yakov, and Yitzhak? The family was divided.

We can’t stay here! We must flee the city! David’s wife grabbed his hand, dragging him to the exit.

Ch 3

Revolution

Herzel Smelyansky

1798

Okay, so that’s where the Wolfe part of our name comes from. Ashley said.

So that’s why some of us speak human german and polish. Paul’s eyes widened.

But what about the Tone? Martha asked. And what happened to everyone?"

I’ll let you research it, but the second part of our name comes from the group of family members Moses led to Dublin, Ireland. In one of the public records it shows that they settled in the district of Ballybough. Abraham said. Ireland was more tolerant to Jewish refuges and for the first time the Wolfe Tones found safety and security.

Ballybough? Where is that exactly, and how was the family able to survive? Manuel asked.

That is a story for another time, but from Dublin began our family journey to take a stand in politics and military affairs. The Enlightenment Era was in full swing and most members of the family embraced the hopes that one day we could become citizens. Nowhere was this more apparent then the Irish 1798 Revolution, a chance to unite the Catholics and Protestants against tyrannical England. Now you can research that time in history by yourself but our family tried to stay neutral because they feared persecution by the Christians, except for one. Actually that moment a few of our ancestors briefly saw the famous Theobald Wolfe Tone, the leader of the United Irishmen. It wasn’t the first, but sadly, it was the last time a Wolfe Tone saw that great Irish hero.

Theobold Wolfe Tone… wait, that has to be where Tone comes from in our name. Ezperanza said. Abraham nodded and smiled.

Which Wolfe Tones met the famous hero?

Well, one of them was Herzel Smelyansky, a future revolutionary himself. Abraham answered. But we must not forget his older brother, who died in the war. Then he pointed at an old pike in the corner of the room.

…

Herzal walked home from synagogue, observing the sad faces of the people on the streets. The British government had cracked down on the Irish rebels so much, the backs of the revolutionaries were broken, and the former Catholics and Protestants once again looked upon each other with suspicion. There was a special trial about to take place today with one of the leaders of the United Irishmen. The rain was heavy as Herzal slipped pass a crowd of people shouting out against a group of soldiers, attempting to reinforce order to the city. You thieves! You hypocrites! Give us liberty too, or death! Some prisoners shouted, as they were being dragged to the jail.

At dinner Herzel’s father only shook his head, reading the paper. Herzel, tomorrow go downtown and collect your brother’s items.

Yes da. Herzel nodded.

Honey why can’t you go yourself? His mother asked.

I’m not touching that foolish idiot’s crap. As far as I know we’re only collecting a stranger’s things. His father said.

Can you let go of your stubbornness just once? The mother shook her head.

We are in danger now because of him. His father bit his lips.

Da, why are you angry at brother, he’s a hero fighting for our freedom. Herzal asked.

His father put down the paper and stared at his son. You weren’t there when they burned down our neighborhood, chased us off like rats, slaughtered the kids, mutilated the elderly. He then turned to look at an old family photo in the room. His brother and his family came to mind, lost somewhere in Central Europe. We are Jews living in Europe, we might be living in a less hostile town, but this is still a Christian country. Don’t go off and fight for this island’s independence because eventually both sides will make you a scapegoat.

With that the conversation ended. Herzel's father traveled back to mainland Europe several times to try and find the missing members of the family ever since the family found safety on the bear shaped island. From time to time he talked about the horrors he encountered and grew very isolationist with the Christian community.

When he was younger he once told me he was very adamant about changing his last name, but now he clings to it to remember his family. Herzal’s mother whispered while she was sewing a blanket."

What was he going to change his name into?" Herzal asked.

Wolfe. She said, then sighed. Your brother never told you much about his youth growing up in the Holy Roman Empire. I think they’re both haunted by that time in their own time.

Mum, why aren’t you sad, like da. Herzal asked.

Herzal’s mum looked over at her husband reading the Torah then back at him. I am, in my own way. I can’t imagine being driven out like him. Your father was a broken man when I first met him, and your brother was a kid full of anger and outrage. He was always a born rebel.

The next day Herzel walked along the cobblestone path, trying to evade the stares of a few gawkers. He did his best to hide his kippah from the people, but couldn’t help but be jostled around a few times. When he arrived downtown he headed to a building where the local office had left a notice for families to pick up items from deceased soldiers and battle casualties.

I’m here to pick up my brother’s items, he fell in Wexford. Herzel asked.

I’ll have to have authorities search again to ensure you foreigners aren’t carrying any illegal items, especially French arms. The person at the front desk said.

The process took forever, with Herzel noticing the people taking their time with other matters before finishing up with him. Expecting this kind of behavior Herzel wandered around the area, observing the people go by. One person outside caught his eye. It was a man, in chains. He was taken out of a prison carriage and brought over to another building where other rebel prisoners were being held. Before he entered the building he glanced and noticed Herzel looking at him. The man sighed and nodded before heading into the building. I’m sorry. This outcome was not what I wanted. He spoke just loud enough for Herzal to hear him.

Alright you’re all set. Now sign this paperwork and go. The person at the desk said.

Upon collecting his brother’s items Herzel recognized who the man was as he was looking at a couple small painted portraits in his brother’s bag. He was that famous Protestant leader, urging the different factions to rise up and declare independence from Great Britain. A sort of emulation like what happened in America and France was his goals. Theobald Wolfe Tone, so that was the man my brother so admired, Herzel thought to himself.

Years later later Herzel couldn’t help but think his father was wrong in his complacent view of the world. Change was coming and his generation had the will to join in. The piece of the hero’s old writings that Herzel kept reflecting on was Many suffer so that some day all Irish people may know justice and peace.

One day our family will know this justice and peace, then we will spread it to all those who need a voice. Herzal said to his son, when he asked him why he fought in another failed rebellion.

Ch 4

Farewell to You Old Ireland

Henry Tone

1846

You know if the potato famine had not struck Ireland in the 1840s our family would not have split once more. Abraham showed the children a diary, old and raggedy.

Which Wolfe Tone is that? The Second youngest child asked.

Henry Tone, he was only fourteen when he had to leave. This diary tells us a lot what happened when the Irish Potato Famine started. None of us worked on farms or fields, since the various European governments still restricted the rights of Jews to own land. We still mostly dealt with copper and tin, so we weathered the famine better then most. Still some family members were struggling, particularly those who worked in farming tools and construction. Abraham flipped through a couple of pages. Right here is where the family argued whether to go to America, and on this other page is what jobs they took when they got there.

What did they do when they arrived? Paul asked.

From this point onward Henry talks about the family becoming peddlers in Wisconsin while trying to open up a tin making business. Abraham said. his step-mother had a dream that involved the family settling down and owning a farm.

Manuel was fascinated by the memoir. He looked at the pages then back at Abraham. Grandad, can you read us the part where they got on a ship?

…

Henry watched as the first ship made it to port, letting down its lines, and loading new cargo. Behind him his father and mother held him close. When we get on board the ship find a spot near the light so we can get less sick then others. His father said.

Henry’s father showed an air of calm demeanor, almost masking the hurt he felt upon thinking of the last argument he had with his brothers before he decided to go to America. A clear anguish, knowing he was leaving everything behind, tore at the man’s feelings.

Show me your ticket and get aboard. One of the sailors called out.

The family headed into the cramped ship and found a place to settle. The smell was musty, and the air felt stale. Is this our home until we reach America? Henry asked.

Yes, endure it. Once we reach America then we will be free to go anywhere we want. His father said.

Hours later the creaking of the ship began as it left port. There was no grandiose farewell, no one standing out on the deck, just a group of people slinking out of a famine induced country. It was a depressing sight, perfect for the situation back on the island.

At first nothing seemed off, some of the potatoes they had were rotten and soft, but it was not a problem. Several people suffered from sea sickness, and it took some time before they finally got used to the movements of the ship.

Then illness started effecting people several days later. Someone’s dead. A passenger called out.

Wrap them up and toss them overboard. A sailor responded.

The first of the dead passengers were tossed off the ship probably the second week or so. No one could tell anymore, they lost track of time shortly after leaving. Parents, children, elderly, and the healthy were not spared. At one point, when Henry started feeling dizzy a young girl, who had lost both her parents, sat next to him an an attempt to stay out of people’s way. Do you have someone waiting for you when you arrive? Henry’s sick mother asked.

No, my only sibling is in a penal colony somewhere in a far off land in the Pacific. The girl said.

Then stay with us, we’ll look out for you. Henry’s mother gestured.

Are you sure its alright? The girl was hesitant at first.

Of course, we must all look out for each other. Henry’s mother smiled warmly. If there is no one I’ll be your mother.

The girl smiled back. Both the Catholic and Protestant preachers told me you people were evil, and that you had horns. That can’t be true, you’re not monsters?

Touch all our heads, you won’t find any horns, I promise. The woman only smiled.

The girl felt the scalps of the entire family then nodded. I’m sorry for saying that.

We’re used to people thinking like that. We hope for a fresh start when we arrive in America. The mother placed her hand on the girl’s shoulder.

The rest of the trip the passengers entertained themselves through music, dancing, drinking, and exchanging information. It was hard, being the only Jewish family on board. Some folk looked on Henry and his parents with suspicion. They didn’t pray the same way as them, and worried they would try to brainwash the girl. Henry sat by a large family with ten children. They were slightly curious and started asking questions about the Torah and Jewish customs Let me tell you a story about the story of the Exodus. Henry said.

We know the story. The kids responded.

Let me tell you our family’s version. This boat reminds me of us crossing the Red Sea. He smiled.

Ch 5

Marching Through Georgia

Levi Tone

1864

I don’t want to go into much detail on our family’s start I the United States, but to put it simply they preferred to live near the frontier, free from the pressure and politics of the city, that’s why they settled in Wisconsin. Abraham then pointed toward an old flag, encased in a frame, on the wall. You see that flag? That is the 12th Wisconsin. That was one of the regiments your ancestors fought in during the American Civil War?

American Civil War? You mean the Last Human Civil War? Albert raised a hand.

No, no. we’ll talk about that war in time. Prior to that however the former United States fought a war to end the institution of slavery and preserve the nation. Our family were staunch abolitionists and supported the Union government because they believed in democracy and thought the plight of the slaves achieving freedom was a call from the stories of fleeing Egypt and Europe.

Just the 12th Wisconsin? The second youngest stared at the flag.

As well as other units, like the Iron Brigade. Abraham smiled and relaxed in his chair. Levi Tone wrote home constantly. It was his anchor to reality. One time he sent a series of letters from Savannah, discussing how excited he was marching through the Rebel fields of Georgia. Upon arriving in Savanah he met the well beloved General William Sherman, reviewing the troops upon settling in for the holidays. Just like the rest of the soldiers Levi referred to him as Uncle Billy.

…

Levi turned his head several times, gawking at the marvelous sites of the city. God has spared us a baptism of blood, so we can celebrate this moment. A friend said to him.

We’ll whip Johny Reb soon. He now knows who Adoni favors in this crusade. Levi smiled

Look over there, it’s Uncle Billy. Another friend pointed.

A man on horseback came around to observe the solders with an approving smile. Uncle Billy we’re at the sea! Uncle Billy those supplies are through! Uncle Billy We’re roasting the roosters for supper tonight! Uncle Billy lets head up to South Carolina now, they’ll surely howl! Uncle Billy, this is where treason will end! Uncle Billy, for the Union and liberty! The soldiers chanted out, ecstatic and eager to win yet more battles.

Sherman tipped his hat and smiled. First off boys we rest and deliver President Lincoln his Christmas present. A grand feast for your victory this December, then we’ll whip the Rebels come spring.

The soldiers cheered as they settled in for the holiday. Levi went to one of the houses and joined several other jewish soldiers to light the menorah for Chanukah. One of the soldiers began the prayers then finished by stating, We pray that by the next year the rebellion will be put down, and we return home to our families. Long live the Union, death to slavey, and praise Father Abraham, our most noble president. He carries the name of our forefather, with humbleness worthy of the father of our faith.

Levi grabbed a mug of alcohol and relaxed outside, watching the bustling city become crowded with soldiers. The soldiers behaved accordingly, as Uncle Billy had ordered, and the townspeople soon relaxed around them. The people most thrilled to see the Union soldiers were the former slaves. They gathered around Levi and the Union soldiers praising their victories and their presence. One man came up to him. Before you came here they were going to put my wife and children up for auction and sell them up the river. Now none of that shall exist, they can’t sell my wife and daughters anymore. Bless the Lord.

Levi smiled and handed the man some matzo the boys made for the holiday. Take and bless this with your family. You shall receive the Almighty’s protection in the coming years.

What’s it called? The man asked.

Matzo, we make it all the time for big feats like this. Levi responded.

Close by a large building had been converted into a hospital where some of the former slaves had volunteered to help care for the sick and wounded, both Union and Confederate. With Christmas fast approaching the feeling of dignity and serving humanity was ingrained in the troops. Inside the hospital a woman was reading a letter to a soldier who could barely move his neck. This one here comes from your mother and father back on the farm. she smiled.

Upon reading it the man laid back and fell asleep. Levi couldn’t help but walk up to the woman and ask her a question while she was wrapping bandages for another wounded soldier. Why did you decide to work here?

I want to help you win this war. My son was whipped and suffered gashes so great he died in agony, and I couldn’t comfort him. Now I’m here and have a stake to let my people go.

You’ve been reading the Old Testament. Levi nodded.

She smiled and continued her work. Pass me that bandage over there.

Levi handed her several bandages then walked over to another comrade, resting, after catching a cold. If we get back home then we should open up a new business. My tin smithing practice will seem less useful now that those factories are taking over.

What do you want to sell? His comrade asked.

Cheese, sausages, anything kosher. Levi answered.

Ch 6

Wild West

Lewis Tone

1876

Do you children ever wonder why our family have such an intimate history for owning ranches, farms, and houses which are more like living zoos? Abraham asked.

The children shrugged. I thought we always had pets. Albert said.

We did, but it was our family’s desire to move out west after the war that began our love of animals. Abraham took out an old uniform from a closet and held it in front of the children. This is the very uniform that one of our most well known ancestors wore when he switched his Union blue for the dusty west. It first started with the hunting of the buffalo, then the allure of becoming a cowboy, a prospector, a surveyor, a sherif and other romantic notions one can think of in the west. Lewis Tone is sometimes credited with doing all those things. After the war Lewis followed his parents and helped settled the frontier as a tradesman, but soon left and made a name for himself upon forming friendships with the various Native American Tribes and settlers. After the railroads were built Lewis gathered together several friends and built a ranch on the Arizona, New Mexico border.

Are you referring to the Sephardi Ranch? Augusto asked.

Yes, a sort of microcosm of the promise of America. Former slaves, veterans, bandits, Mexican immigrants, Mormons, Chinese railroad workers, Irish Catholics, Native Americans, cowboys, and Jewish relatives from the East came together and built a little town out in the middle of nowhere. Abraham nodded. Living and working amongst the indigenous groups of the Americas is what started Lewis’s passion for natural wildlife, in particular buffalo, which were facing extinction due to overhunting.

…

The early morning soon came to life as the sounds of the barrio woke up the community. A couple family friends knocked on Lewis’ door as he started preparing his morning coffee. It’s open. He called out.

Lewis, we brought over the eggs and flour for breakfast this morning. One for them said.

Perfect, you know where the utensils are. Lewis then got his kids up and sat together at the table for a quick breakfast. Today, we must be careful, we’ve been having problems with bandits trying to get their hands on our livestock. When we take them out into the open grasslands, take some of the women too.

A woman holding a gun, that seems a bit too strange. They’re normally busy feeding the animals in the food stalls or tending the fields. One of the men said.

Nonsense, I’ve met several women in the open saddles. That’s how I met Rose, a better gunslinger then I could ever be. Besides desperate times call for us to change or suffer major setbacks. Lewis waved the thought from his mind and returned to his meal.

The morning began as Lewis saw off his children to the local school house, then he joined his fellow horsemen out to the ranch to help feed the buffalo. One of his friends, a man from the Lakota tribe, pointed at the newborn calves wandering close by their mothers. It seems like our efforts are about to pay off. He said.

Are they ready to head out on the open plains? Lewis asked.

Of course, from the time they are born the buffalo own the plains. the Lakota man smiled.

In that case how long do you think we need to wait before we can release them back in the wild?

The Lakota man sighed. Probably not in our lifetime.

The open plains were not as wild as folk back East were led to believe. No such thing as constant warfare between the settlers and the indigenous people. At the same time the nonEuropean settlers, whom most settlers didn’t want, were seen as potential talent that became Lewis’s personal gain when he started the ranch. And the food was the most exciting. Up until now the provisions Lewis took with him as he traveled across the West mostly consisted of bland beans, canned vegetables, hard tack, dried fish, and eggs from a couple chickens he carried with him. The tastes and aromas of the food from the other settlers in the town made for a unique experience when the ranch held a shabbat dinner every Friday or Sunday.

Lewis, we’re heading on ahead scout out the area for any prospectors. The Lakota man said.

If you see any army boys, just come back to us before they jump the gun. I don’t want another incident like last month. Lewis said with great concern. Both men nodded as the horses began to trot and gallop along the trampled grasslands.

Ch 7

Reunited

Leo Wolfe

1897

Grandad, you haven’t talked about our German relatives. Was our family able to reunite after the Civil War? One of the younger children asked. Did our relatives in America mend our ties with our family in Ireland? The youngest child asked.

Yes, it was in Basel, Switzerland where all three members of the family came together again. Abraham nodded.

How so? The youngest asked.

In 1897 a man named Theodor Herzel convened in the city to create a homeland for the Jewish people after the anti-semitism going on in France, a conference to determine Zion and the future for the Jewish Diaspora.

Huh? The children were not familiar with the story.

In 1897 a French Jewish officer was falsely accused of treason, causing a divide in the country. Our family was so shocked by such behavior in such an enlightened country that they agreed with the idea that if the Jewish people had a homeland they would no longer have to fear persecution.

So our family met each other at this conference? Albert raised a hand.

I could tell you the stories of that time, how our ancestors initially reacted, how they reformed their family bonds, and the letters they wrote after the conference. Leo Wolfe comes to mind, the family representative from Germany. Abraham said, then pointed at the family’s last name, carved on a family crest. And this is the beginning of combining our two last names to Wolfe Tone.

…

Leo walked into the large room, glancing all around at the beautiful decor. A sense of awe greeted him as he saw the iconic names and faces of delegates all across the Jewish world. Scholars, humanitarians, visionaries, rabbis, and others from every corner of the globe, crowded around to engage in the past time of debate. Leo followed his delegation to their seats and engaged in conversation until he saw a man walk to the head of the room. It was Theodor Herzel. Leo was intrigued to hear what he was going to do next. The stories going on in France really worried everyone, some discussed about feeling disillusioned from the so called democracies and their promise of equality. Several proposed various places where they could form their Jewish State. A nation in Africa seemed to be the most common idea proposed, with little enthusiasm. I think it is a good starting point to our ultimate objective. Herzel responded. At least we would be safe while we figure out how to Jerusalem.

I don’t want to create a Jewish state in the heart of Africa. The head of Leo’s delegation said. Our biblical homeland should be the obvious choice.

It has to be in Isreal. Leo agreed. I’m sure we can work peacefully with the locals and create a new society together.

The American delegation has said little, what’s your view? Herzel asked.

An American delgate stood up. We’re a little indifferent. Our home doesn’t seem to experience the level of discrimination in Europe."

Then why even come? A Polish delegate asked. You barley pay attention to our plight, some even say you are a separate entity to the Jewish refugees fleeing the Russian Empire.

I shamefully admit that, but we have one important quality we can contribute, we have the financial backing to help the rest of you. The American delegate nodded. We live a comfortable life back home, but we’re here because we know it’s important to advocate for Jewish homeland for those who need it.

Herzel continued to moderate between the factions as they discussed their next steps until he finally stood up again after two rabbits got into a heated debate. Let’s take this opportunity to rest and think for a while."

After the meeting Leo met with dignitaries and shared family experiences with other people, while trying to build meaningful connections. A man came up to him from a small delegation attached to a group of supporters from England. My name is Leonard Tone, I’m from the Dublin community, in Ireland. We’re attached with a group of British supporters.

Tone? That’s the name of an Irish hero. My name is Leo Wolfe, I’m from the Ruhr in Germany. Leo shook Leonard’s hand.

Wolfe, what a coincidence for a last name. My family used to come from the Ruhr in Germany… I think. There’s this story that they had planned to change their names to Wolfe but it never happened. Leonard explained.

What an interesting story, similar to our family lost. My grandparents once told me our ancestors fled persecution somewhere from the East and separated from members of our family somewhere in the old Prussian states. Leo responded.

Wow, so similar to the other stories here. Leonard said. What was it like for your family?

My family meant to cross the Atlantic to some island in the Caribbean, but was stuck in Germany because they had no money. One day a program in some city killed off most of our ancestors relatives and we fled to some other city which was more tolerant. Leo explained.

The same stories I hear all the time. I keep hearing tales of the people suffering in Russia, and how they are desperate to keep their identity while the army tries to conscript young boys for decades of military service. Leonard shook his head.

That’s how my brother-in-law lost his fingers, his parents decided to mutilate him rather then have him be alienated and forget where he came from. Leo said.

You know I met another man with the same last name as me when I first arrived here. He said he came from America, and his mostly family lives in Milwaukee. Leonard said.

A relative, it feels like a family reunion. Leo said.

He is, they were a branch of our family that fled Ireland during that potato famine. Leonard smiled. You should meet him, I’m sure you’d get along great.

Is he here right now? Leo scanned the room.

He’s over there, come follow me. Leonard gestured.

Ch 8

No Man’s Land

Maximilian Von Wolfe

1917

That family reunion didn’t last long, you know what ended it? Abraham asked.

Uhh, war? Maya raised her hand.

That’s right, World War I. The American and Irish members of the family let nationalism go to their heads and refused to talk to the German members for some time. The Polish members of the family were also split over which side to join. The German members believed the Central Powers were in the right because they hated Russia and never forgave France because of what happened to Dreyfus and that bloody affair.

They never talked to each other? The youngest asked. Did everyone hate each other?

No of course not, World War I was never that simple. The war always felt like a family conflict to us though. One of our German ancestors, Maximillian Von Wolfe, wrote about an encounter he had with one of his relatives in No Man’s Land.

No Man’s Land?

it was a place to kill, where no one could claim ownership, yet at the same time it was also a place to negotiate, trade, and call a truce. Abraham explained.

…

Max walked from the cantina back to his line, holding his coffee in one hand, and placed his hand near his rifle in the other. Any action today? He asked his fellow soldier.

The British are quiet, maybe because they’re exhausted after that offensive in Passchendaele. Max, it’s your turn. I need to check to see if the rats ate my cigarettes and family sausages. The soldier then said.

Max nodded and looked across a desolate wasteland in between the two opposing trenches. Sniper someone’s head is up. He called out.

A ping rang out as the sniper hit the top of a helmet. Max examined the result. A miss, the helmet must have been grazed.

The days were the same on the frontlines. The poor haggard soldiers pretended to show off in front of the Kaiser and his top officers, then complained in their diaries how they just wanted to go home. The mud sometimes got to the soldiers. Just the