Herzogfest is the celebration of the history, traditions, and culture of the Volga Germans who settled in Herzog Kansas in the 1870’s. They were tough and hardy farmers who were once again leaving a demanding and hostile government in the Volga Region of Russia to come to Kansas for a fresh start. The settlement of Herzog was located in the Northeast corner of the city of what is now Victoria Kans
as, which was originally settled by the English who brought over angus cattle. Soon after Victoria was settled by the English, most of the English left the area due to frigid winters and the scorching sun of the summer months. To the Volga-Germans from Herzog Russia, establishing the new settlement Herzog Kansas, the climate was very similar to the climate in the Volga Region of Russia, which made them feel at home. After the turn of the 20th century, the name Herzog had faded away and was taken over by the name Victoria. Years later, descendants and grandchildren of the Volga-Germans who originally settled Herzog Kansas, came up with “Herzogfest” to preserve the old ways and traditions. As Herzogfest grew with popularity, so did the events. But it would not be Herzogfest without bierocks, galuskies, green-bean dumpling soup, beer, a little bit of polka music, and all those delicious baked goods that the Volga-Germans ladies make from recipes handed down from generation to generation. The Volga-German township of Herzog grew to be the most known and largest Volga-German colony in Kansas, and some say in the midwest today! We hope to see you join us to celebrate our heritage and enjoy all of the activities the festival has to offer!
