Ilfeld
Ilfeld is a place name and a surname, most commonly associated with a town in Thuringia, Germany, and a historical family of Jewish merchants and philanthropists.
Ilfeld, Thuringia:
Ilfeld is a town located in the Harz district of Thuringia, Germany. It is situated near the southern edge of the Harz mountains. Historically, it was an independent municipality. In 2012, it was merged into the municipality of Harztor. Key features and historical aspects of Ilfeld include:
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Ilfeld Abbey (Kloster Ilfeld): A former Cistercian monastery, founded in the 12th century. It played a significant role in the region's history and development. After the Reformation, it became a Protestant educational institution.
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Ilfeld School (Pädagogium Ilfeld): The former monastery school, renowned for its high academic standards. It attracted students from across Germany and beyond.
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Location and Environment: Ilfeld's location in the Harz mountains makes it a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities.
Ilfeld Family:
The Ilfeld family, originally from Germany, established a prominent presence in the American Southwest, particularly in New Mexico, during the 19th and 20th centuries. They were known for their involvement in mercantile activities, particularly the wholesale and retail trades, and for their contributions to the development of the region's economy. Notable aspects of the Ilfeld family include:
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Charles Ilfeld (1847-1929): One of the most influential members of the family. He emigrated to the United States and established a successful mercantile business in New Mexico.
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Ilfeld Company: The family's mercantile enterprise, which played a crucial role in supplying goods and services to communities across New Mexico and the surrounding areas.
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Philanthropy: The Ilfeld family contributed significantly to various philanthropic causes, including education and community development.
The name "Ilfeld" therefore encompasses both a geographical location and a family whose histories are intertwined with the cultural and economic development of Germany and the American Southwest.