Bernard F. Herberick is a masterful storyteller whose memoir “Empire’s Orphan” offers readers a captivating glimpse into the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring quest for freedom and belonging. Through his poignant narrative, Herberick reminds readers of the power of hope, courage, and the enduring bonds of family and community. It is more than just a memoir; it is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of resilience in the face of adversity. D. Herberick, a contributor to this book one of Bernard’s grandchildren, joins in sharing her legacy.
about Empire's Orphan: From Habsburg Austria to New York
Discover the glamorous life of Albertina Zimmerman, who traversed the Atlantic from Habsburg, Austria to New York—a wild land “where the streets are paved with gold.”
Albertina Zimmerman, known affectionately as “Oma” by her loving grandson, Bernard, was an endless source of fascination and an avid narrator of true stories whose protagonists were leading figures from music, politics, and the Viennese opera.
Born to a distinguished family in Silesia, she lived the grand old days of the Habsburg Empire in Austria to the fullest, forging friendships with composers such as Bedřich Smetana and the undisputed “Waltz King,” Johann Strauss.
She was also an honored guest at Imperial balls, which were almost exclusively attended by those with “at least sixteen generations with the word ‘von’ as part of their surname.”
This book is a testimony to his admiration and love for a woman who lived for fashion, art, and all things beautiful. Within its pages, you will discover:
Oma’s love for high fashion—she became a modiste in her youth, just to “swim in a sea of beautiful hats.”
How Oma brushed shoulders with the biggest celebrities and eminences of her time—including Empress Elisabeth (the famous “Empress Sisi”).
Oma’s attendance at historic events such as the premiere of Die Fledermaus.
The violent assassination that took the life of Empress Sisi.
The tensions between Johan Strauss and his father, who was also an eminent musician.
The tragic murder-suicide pact between the Crown Prince Rudolph and his young mistress, the 17-year-old Baroness Marie von Vetsera.
The eccentric habits of Bohemian composer, Bedřich Smetana, who used to pay surprise visits to Oma’s home to play the piano and leave just as unexpectedly.
Oma’s deep interest in an education that was deeply steeped in the arts.
The clashes between the Emperor, Franz Joseph, and his heir, Franz Ferdinand—whose assassination led to the outbreak of World War I.
And much more.
This book is more than a recollection of Oma’s interactions with the elite of Vienna. Many of Bernard’s recollections involve tender moments he experienced in the company of Oma. She was a champion for multilingual education. She believed that her grandson should be well-schooled in music and singing, and she let the American education system know about it.
She instilled a passion for music, the arts, and gastronomy in her grandson, and his life is all the richer for it.
Empire’s Orphan is an intimate tale of a woman who lived and breathed for culture and the arts. Far from resting on her fortune and good luck, she was a fierce protector of her family, making a courageous move to New York in search of a better future for those she loved.
To immerse yourself in the fascinating highs and lows of Oma’s life and to warm your heart with the beautiful connection she shared with her grandson, click “Add to Cart” right now.