PREFACE.
The German Society in the city of New-York was formed in the year 1784, at a time when the returning peace opened to America the prospect of a friendly intercourse with the maritime nations of Europe. The period had then arrived when many foreigners, encouraged by the bright aspect of a western world, might be expected to emigrate hither.—It was foreseen that among the emigrants, there would be found those who on their arrival would stand in need of advice and assistance, especially if they were ignorant of the language of the country, and its laws.
To afford relief to German emigrants, who might arrive under such circumstances, with a view to settle in this country, was therefore the primary object for which the society was instituted.
The means necessary for carrying the design into effect were small, in the beginning, being no other than what arose from admission money, and quarterly contributions of the members; yet the most pressing calls have at all times been answered, and it is remembered with peculiar satisfaction, that in more than one instance the society have been instrumental, not only in alleviating the distressed situation of their countrymen, but also in delivering them from oppression.
As the society increased in members, and the migration of foreigners, particularly of Germans, became less frequent, the institution was enabled so to manage its funds, as to acquire a small property in real estate, which was held in trust by some of the members. The inconvenience of holding property in this manner, was, how-
