Ellis ishome to a rich history and many residents have interesting stories to tell. One man fought hard enough to get out of Germany during World War II to share his gift of music with western Kansas.
Fritz Kramer remembers much of his childhood ducking from gunfire and finding shelter from bombs. He says it was pure hell growing up in Germany during the war. "There was so much brainwashing going on. Every family in Germany has suffered by this idiotic guy named Hitler," he said.
He was always on the run in Germany, until the 1950's when he had the chance to leave and move to America. When he came over, he brought his gift of classical music with him. It was a talent he picked up from his mother. "And that love has stayed with me until now."
To call Kramer accomplished would be an understatement. He went on to direct the opening of the Hutchinson Symphony and taught music to kids all over western Kansas for nearly three decades. "As a teacher you enjoy the progress that your students make," he said.
Kramer says he's blesssed each day to call Ellis home. He says it's safe and relaxing, quite different from growing up in war-torn Germany where every day was about survival. "We just love being here in this little town," Kramer said.
He says while some of his memories of the old country still make him sad, the classical German music he plays is a constant reminder of the gift his family left him. A gift he hopes he passed along to the town of Ellis.
