The California Immigrant

by Barbara Anne King

  From time to time, an unkempt man dressed in tattered clothes would enter the Dalmatian Coast Cafe, looking for a handout. Martin knew what it was like to be without food from his experience living in Croatia. He would take pity on the man who probably had a family to feed and was depending on what he could bring home. But Martin did not want these men hanging around the restaurant during the dinner hour so he would tell them to come back after closing time. Then he would hand them a bag of leftovers and always tried to include a loaf of bread, the staff of life, which had supported the lives of the poor through many troubled times. President Hoover’s promise of a chicken in every pot had failed to materialize, leaving the pot empty.

  The farmers did not like Martin feeding the Oakies and sent Filip to tell him so. “Martin, I’ve been chosen to give you the message to stop feeding the hungry.”

  “What? Am I not to follow what our Lord asks of us?”

  “I know you sympathize with these people and I do, too. But we no longer have work for them so we want them to move on. As long as they can get some bread, they’ll continue hanging on.”

  “Tell your farmer friends that if they want me to stop, they need to come and shoo the hungry away themselves. I won’t turn them away when I have food they could eat, which would just end up getting tossed in the garbage.”

  “Is that your final word then?”

  “It is.” Then he thought about it a moment. “Tell them if they are ever hard on their luck and need some bread, they are always welcome to come by for a hand out, too.”

  Filip knew it was better to hold his tongue. He shook Martin’s hand and left.

  Chapter 37

  In 1932, the country elected a new president, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who promised a New Deal, telling Americans that “the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” He initiated a number of public works projects, providing jobs for the unemployed. He also put an end to Prohibition, an act Martin especially appreciated. He could hardly wait to tell Officer Soldati to go to hell the next time he came around with his envelope. Paying protection money had never sat well with him.

  Soon after President Roosevelt took the Office of President in 1933, another world leader was beginning his rise. The worldwide economic collapse triggered by the stock market crash gave communism and Nazism a chance to spread across Europe thus setting the stage for Adolph Hitler to gain a foothold in the German government as chancellor and eventually Fuhrer of the German Third Reich after the death of Paul von Hindenburg in 1934.

  Croatians, whose favorite pastime was discussing politics, gathered for lunch at the Dalmatian Coast Cafe and lingered so Martin could join them. From watching the Austrian regime up close, they could read the hidden agenda in Hitler’s moves and were worried about the future of their relatives left behind in the old country.

  Karlo started things off addressing Martin who always seemed in the know. “What do you think of this guy Hitler?

  “He has had a very curious rise to power which makes me suspicious,” said Martin, as he lit a cigarette.

  “Me, too,” said Michael. “And don’t forget he’s Austrian. Living in Vienna he had a chance to observe the Habsburgs up-close and learn from them.”

  “Why are you so suspicious of him?” Filip asked.

  “Well, his background is sketchy,” Michael said. “He comes out of the Great War with a rank equivalent to our private first class—certainly nothing to brag about. He served mostly as a runner carrying messages back and forth, which was so dangerous only a crazy person would want to do it. Then somehow he gets involved with the Workers Party and forms the Nazi Party, becoming president of it. And then he ends up in jail for treason. But miraculously he was able to keep reinventing himself.”

  “I’ll tell you how,” said Karlo. “The depression, unemployment, starvation, chaos. People were looking for a savior and he seemed to have all the answers.”

  “That’s right. And he actually did a few things to make life better,” said Martin. He paused to take a drag of his cigarette. “Then he ran for president and lost to Hindenburg who must have believed in keeping enemies closer so he appointed Hitler chancellor. The people certainly knew what they were doing when they rejected Hitler. But the eighty-five-year-old president was probably in his dotage, so he didn’t understand the consequences.”

  “Well,” said Michael, “the people should have risen up when he combined chancellor and president into the one role of Fuhrer. He set himself up as a dictator.”

  “When he disregarded the Versailles Treaty someone should have corrected him,” Henrik said.

  “Everyone knew the Versailles Treaty was no good, no way to keep the peace,” Michael said. “But when other countries learned of the military buildup, they should have sounded a worldwide alarm.”

  “France, especially, should have been the one since they are the most vulnerable. But Russia, too, was no friend of Germany. It makes me wonder how good its spy network really is,” said Karlo.

  “Most of you have either never lived in Europe or have been away for a long time. But Michael and I remember how it was,” said Martin. “Relationships are very complicated and each country is trying to jockey for the best position.”

  “That’s right,” said Michael. “But we should be very watchful.”

  “I agree with Michael,” said Martin. “Watch for now. Action will come later. But I predict this Hitler guy is up to no good.” And he ground his cigarette butt forcefully into an ashtray.

  Everyone left, shaking their heads, not knowing what was about to happen to the world.

  Chapter 38

  Clara had been dating a young man named Peter Kalinich during the past year. He was the son of an apple farmer and was following in his father’s footsteps. Clara’s Uncle Henrik had introduced them since his farm was nearby the Kalinich’s. One Sunday Peter had been invited to dinner with the family. But before the meal was served, he asked to speak with Martin privately. “You are aware that Clara and I have been courting,” Peter said, his blue eyes fixed and sincere. Martin nodded, urging him to continue while taking his measure. Peter was a well-built young man, tall with broad shoulders. Martin liked the strength his bearing displayed. “I have grown very fond of Clara; in fact, I am in love with her, and I think she feels the same way about me.” Martin remained silent, knowing what was coming next. Taking a deep breath, Peter said, “I would like to ask your permission for her hand in marriage.”

  Now it was Martin’s turn to speak. “Have you spoken to Clara about your feelings?”

  “Yes, she knows my intentions are honorable.”

  “And how will your support her and future children?”

  “Apples raised me and my siblings, proving their worth. I will continue to farm.”

  “And where will you live?”

  “There is a small house on our property that my father will let me have.”

  “It sounds as if you are depending on your father for everything. A married man has to be able to stand on his own two feet.”

  “You are right about that. I have money saved to buy my own farm, and when I find the right piece of land, I will seal the deal. But our love cannot wait so I have made intermediate arrangements.”

  “Peter, I like you very much and would welcome you as a son-in-law. I just want to make sure you’re prepared for all the responsibilities marriage brings.”

  “Don’t worry about me. I am more than equal to the task. My father has set a good example for me.”

  “That he certainly has. Well, Peter, you have my blessing. A wedding will give our families something to look forward to with hope for the future.” Martin took a step toward Peter and shook his hand. “Clara will make you a good wife. She, too, has had a good example to follow.”

  That evening as Martin and Lena were settling into bed, Lena said, “I guess we’re lucky we only have one girl, one wedding. But I don’t know what’s going to happen to the boys since they won’t have much to offer a prospecti
ve bride.”

  “You’re right…one wedding is all we can afford, if that.” But he was thinking that boys were not going to be such good luck the way the world was heading…war seemed a foregone conclusion, but he wouldn’t mention it to Lena, at least not tonight, when she had a little happiness over Clara’s engagement. He kissed Lena good night before turning off the light.

  Now in the darkness, Martin’s thoughts and fears were beginning to confront him. This guy Hitler is up to no good. But maybe he’ll confine his ambitions to Europe. Although he knew that would not be the case from his experience with the Great War. England would come to the defense of France, and then we would be drawn into the conflict, like it or not. My American dream is always out of reach. In fact, it could turn into a nightmare.

  Martin noticed Lena was restless in the bed. They both need to relieve their stress. He turned toward Lena and began caressing her and she responded with caresses of her own. Before long they had both reached ecstasy, trying to control their moans so as not to disturb the children. As was his habit and Lena’s preference, Martin let the passion ease and then brought on their climaxes a second time. The way he felt tonight, he could go for a third time, but he wasn’t sure Lena was ready for it. But the bad thoughts had not been banished. He asked Lena if she was ready for more. With her permission and willingness, Martin rode the wave of his passion a third time, quite a feat for a man his age, until he finally exhausted himself to sleep. Lena gave him a kiss goodnight and snuggled up close before sleep took hold of her, too.

  Within the year, Clara and Peter were married at St. Patrick’s Church, guests filling the church, including an entourage of family and friends from San Francisco. Afterward, Clara moved into the cottage on Peter’s ranch but continued to take care of the family home so Lena could work and bring in a few wages.

  Chapter 39

  The news from Europe was foreboding. Tensions continued to rise as major developments evolved. In 1936, Germany and Italy signed a treaty to form the Rome-Berlin Axis. And Germany and Japan signed a pact against the Soviet Union and the international communist movement. In mid-1937 Japan crossed the East China Sea to invade China, a move historians would designate as the start of World War II in the Pacific.

  A few days later, Ken Nakamura stopped into the Dalmatian Coast Cafe for lunch, which he did several days a week. Since the cafe was located near Watsonville’s Japantown, the restaurant was patronized by many Japanese who appreciated fresh fish and even more, the way Martin prepared it. Today when Ken walked in, Martin noticed he seemed upset and not his usual happy-go-lucky self. Ken had the body of a judo master and, at times, the serene demeanor of a Bodhisattva. Since he had no other customers at the moment, Martin stepped out of the kitchen and approached Ken’s table. “How are you today?” he asked with a note of good cheer in his voice.

  “Oh, Martin, I am worried. You know Japan is now at war with China. This does not look good for the future.”

  “Do you have close family members in Japan?”

  “It’s not my extended family I am concerned about. I am afraid for my family here in America.”

  “But why? You’re all citizens.”

  “Haven’t you noticed we have slanted eyes and yellow skin?”

  “But you’re American nonetheless. Don’t forget this country has the Constitution that protects its citizens.”

  “I hope you’re right. But still I worry. We Japanese think generations ahead, so everything we work toward is long-term, not just the here and now.”

  “Well, don’t think you’re the only ones worried about war. We Croatians talk about the events going on in Europe every day and fear for our brethren in the old country. So, I think between Croatians and Japanese, most of our town is caught in a vise. The few Mexicans here are the only ones with no cares. They can just hightail it back across the border until things settle down. Besides they live in the moment, always putting everything off until mañana, you know, tomorrow.”

  When Martin returned to the kitchen, Liu and Chao scowled at him. “What’s the matter with you two?”

  “Have you forgotten we’re Chinese?” Liu asked. “That bastard’s motherland is attacking ours.”

  “Wait a minute. Regardless of our descent, we are all Americans here. And I don’t want you to mistreat any of our customers because of some political problem happening thousands of miles away.” Liu and Chao gave each other a look, expressing their distaste for Martin’s words. They turned away and refused to look Martin in the eye the rest of the day. Martin understood their body language, but he hoped common sense would restore them to reason.

  Chapter 40

  In 1938, two major events occurred—one good, one bad. Clara and Peter’s first child, a son, was born following two miscarriages, which had caused the families to fear the couple would be childless. Baby Peter was a healthy child of good weight whose sunny disposition brought light into their world, which was receding into darkness. Then in March, Germany annexed Austria, an act known as Anschluss. The day the news broke, Croatians gathered at the Dalmatian Coast Cafe to discuss the situation. “It doesn’t look good,” Martin said. “Germany is probably gearing up for another war.”

  “But what does this mean for Croatia?” Karlo asked.

  “I don’t know. But the Jews are being targeted, and Aryanization is being pursued,” said Filip.

  “And were does that leave us Slavs?” Karlo said. “We fall below Jews in the pecking order.”

  “It’s out of our hands,” said Martin. “Right now, all we can do is stand by and watch.”

  “And pray and hope,” said Karlo. “Never, never underestimate the power of prayer. I’m going to ask for a Mass to be said for our countrymen.”

  “If necessary,” Filip said, “we can get resources to Croatia. A lot of us have the money to do it.”

  “With prayers and money, Croatians should be able to stand strong,” said Martin. But he feared their young Kingdom of Yugoslavia would be vulnerable to the evil powers surrounding them.

  Everyone’s fears turned to reality on September 1, 1939 when Germany invaded Poland. Two days later, Great Britain and France declared war on Germany while the US remained on the sidelines, watching and speculating about the events to come. Croatians poured into Martin’s restaurant for a late lunch and stayed for an impromptu political discussion. “What does this mean for Croatia?” Michael asked.

  “What you should be asking is, what does this mean for the US? So far, we’re neutral but President Roosevelt will only be able to withstand pressure from Churchill for so long. And then where will that leave us and, most importantly, our sons? Don’t forget I served in World War I, if only to protect merchant ships, but I got a taste of war, and it has left a foul flavor in my mouth.”

  A couple of weeks later, the Soviet Union invaded Poland as well, and less than a year later annexed the Baltic states of Latvia, Ukraine, and Lithuania.

  As bad as the situation was, the apple growers conceded it was an opportunity to make money. As long as people need to eat and their own supplies are short, US farmers could meet the demand. And the more the demand, the higher the prices. No one liked to take advantage of war, but that was the reality. And almost overnight, the country emerged from the Depression. Goods and services were needed to fuel the war machine, and America was in the position to provide them.

  Chapter 41

  On Palm Sunday 1941, most of the Croatian community was gathered at Mass to remember Christ’s entry into Jerusalem that marks the beginning of Holy Week. Each congregant had held a palm, symbol of peace and redemption, in their hands as they progressed into the church to take their seat. Before the conclusion of the Mass, the priest asked everyone to bow their heads and pray for Croatia. “Just hours ago, it was invaded on all sides by the Axis powers of Germany, Italy, Hungary, and Bulgaria.” A communal gasp was let out that reverberated throughout the nave as men grew angry and women wept for their families left behind in a country caught up
in a war waged by others. Red and white are the colors for Palm Sunday, symbolizing the blood Christ gave to redeem the world. This symbolism was not lost on Croatians that day, as they linked the colors to the Croatian Coat of Arms set in a chessboard pattern. Martin thought Croatians would be giving blood as pawns in a chess game being played by world powers so evil, they had no respect for humanity.

  After Mass, everyone gathered in the reception room for coffee, but even the camaraderie could not take away the somber mood. Michael came up to Martin and said, “Now our immigration to America has really been worth it. Croatians are going to suffer and who knows if they will ever know peace much less prosperity.” Martin just nodded and moved his family out the door. He wanted to go home where peace could still be found.

  Clara, Peter, and Petie arrived at home just behind them. With a three-year-old running around, Martin guessed he would not have much peace. And he was right. But it was his thoughts that would not give him peace. As he looked at Petie, he thought of his brother and father, both named Peter. His father was now well into his seventies, an old man but one who still lived a full life. An old man deserves to enjoy his old age and the fruits of his labors. It would be a long while before he could do that and would probably die beforehand.

  Palm Sunday dinner was a somber occasion as everyone present was alone with their own thoughts, reflecting on the events of the day. When Holy Week arrived, Christ’s passion was not something that happened hundreds of years ago, it was a penetrating agony lived to the depths of their souls.