German immigration to America began around 1840. By the end of the century, more than 8 million people had left their homeland. Jews too saw their opportunities, whether because of crop disasters or the failed 1848 revolution, but mainly because of the still unfulfilled equal rights in the states of the German Bund. Not everyone stayed on the East Coast; many moved on to the young states of the Midwest. The example of three native Lorschers shows entrepreneurial and social success that was not possible for Jews in their homeland to this extent. Jacob Rohrheimer came to Cleveland, Ohio, in 1847. He founded a cigar factory and became involved in the community. The old people’s home he helped start still exists today. Simon Mainzer emigrated in 1868. He started a textile business with his brother-in-law Julius Houseman. Houseman later became a congressman for Michigan in the U.S. House of Representatives. Julius Krakauer came to New York as a child in 1853 and became a musician and composer. He, his father, and his Heppenheim-born brother David established a piano factory. Under Julius’ leadership, Krakauer Pianos became a leader in the industry.