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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Memoir:
A Child's Story
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Volume 9d
Agnes Simon
A Child's Story
published by the
Concordia University Chair in Canadian Jewish Studies
Copyright � Agnes Simon, 2000
Key Words
Budapest, Hungary, Zalaegerszeg (village in
Hungary), Admiral Miklos Horthy (Hungarian leader), Ferenc Szalasi (Arrow Cross leader),
Arrow Cross (Hungarian Fascist movement), liberation by Russian troops, Allied bombing of
Budapest, Vienna, Salzburg, Ulm (city in Germany), Hindenburg Kaserne (Displaced
Persons’ camp), Sedan Kaserne (Displaced Persons’ camp), Canada.
Abstract
Narrative begins with recollection of the day the
Germans invade Hungary n 1944. Author is ten years old. Sent to countryside with the
gentile cousin of her friend. Cousin is unsympathetic and threatens the young girl.
Brought back to Budapest when Jews are forced to wear the yellow star of David. Describes
the restrictions imposed on Jews. Recalls the surrender of Admiral Horthy and the return
to power of the fascistic Arrow Cross under Szalasi. Describes the round-up of Jews and
the conditions of imprisonment. Following a night of uncertainty, Jews are returned to
their homes. Later, everyone from age 16 to 40 is told to report for transport to labour
camps. Mother is saved by intervention of gentile neighbour. In December1944, the Jewish
ghetto is sealed. Allied air-raids increase the uncertainty. Conditions in cellar, which
serves as air-raid shelter, are described. Liberated by Russians--acknowledges her
gratitude to the Russian liberators. Return to family dwelling. Father returns from
Russian detention camp. Fearing Hungarian antisemitism and the prospect of the communist
regime, family decides on emigration. In June 1946, with changed indentities, family
crosses the border into Austria and reaches Vienna. Later, they travel to Ulm, Germany
where they spend the next two years. Describes her studies and the acquisition of English.
Since entry to the U.S. proves difficult, family comes to Canada and decides to stay.
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