#20 Hermine Hoffmann - Hitler’s first “foster mother” and sponsor

During the First World War, many women volunteered to provide clothing, hand-knitted socks, food, and cigarettes for soldiers at the front. Hoffmann volunteered and was assigned to a soldier named Adolf Hitler.

This relationship is documented in postcards and letters, proving that she corresponded regularly with Hitler as early as 1914.

Hitler wrote in pencil:

“Dear Madam Director! After the fiercest battles at Geluveld, right on the front line, I was promoted to corporal, and as if by miracle, I remained unharmed. Now we have three days’ leave; it’s time to paint the church at Beselare (Hitler writes ‘Bezeluere’). Once again, heartfelt thanks.” Respectfully, Adolf Hitler, Gefr.”