Sandy,
you wrote:
Hi Bob,
"...The Masons were opening a library in Columbia and Gottlieb's info should be there.
What do you think??? Everyone tells me I am crazy to "mess around" with the Masons. I just wanted to know WHERE in Germany."
You didn't know about the secret national treasure that Thomas Jefferson gave to Lewis & Clark to bury somewhere along the banks of the Missouri river during their famous exploration with the corps of discovery in 1804? It is rumored that they buried this awesome national treasure somewhere near Columbia, MO and that years later (late 1890's) a master mason from Missouri who although he came from humble beginnings as a butcher originally from Doegerode in the Kingdom of Hannover and was then living in House Springs, MO, was tasked with moving the treasure for fear that Nicolas Cage's ancestors were close to stealing it from the protection of the masons. Thus, it doesn't surprise me a bit that they would not divulge Gottlieb Siever's town of origin. ... in fact, I only know the above because I am writing the script for National Treasure III - The Butcher of Doegerode! They offered me the role of Gottlieb - but I turned them down for personal security reasons. ;o)
Okay, sorry - I couldn't resist! Seriously, I am not familiar with the Masons, the Columbia library or their records. If you want to find out what they have and if they are willing to share that info - I would think having a fellow mason - the higher ranking the better, to pursue this line for you would be your best approach. Personally, I wouldn't waste my time on that lead at present since you have a much hotter trail now.
All my best,
Bob Behnen
Blessings & Thanks again
sandy sievers cooper