Martha Kranzthor-Osvat

To say local poet Martha Kranzthor-Osvat is leading a fascinating life is an understatement. During World War II, Martha and her mother, Alice Kranzthor, survived Auschwitz only to be sent to a labor camp. In 1945 they were liberated by American soldiers--the Railsplitters--and went back home to their native Hungary, but not before having her picture taken with a soldier that would appear in Stars and Stripes. In 1962, with communism moving into their part of the world, Martha and Alice left for America and settled in Milwaukee. Decades later the women discovered that their liberators, the Railsplitters, were based in Milwaukee. Since being reintroduced to the soldiers in the early 1980s (when she saw for the first time the photo that had been taken of her at the camp), Martha and the men of the 84th division have met many times, forming a lasting bond between liberated and liberators. Her new book of poetry is dedicated to the men of the 84th division and is a tribute to them, her past, and the life she is living. Don't miss out on your chance to meet the spirited and inspiring Martha Kranzthor-Osvat.

Martha's daughter and granddaughter (Kathy Osvat-Korte and Marissa Korte, respectively) will join her at this event.


Read a recent article in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel about Martha.