Not only connected by their professions, but also apparently by a keen friendship, the two Haases corresponded over several years between Richmond and Reval via letters and postcards. Their correspondence contained both private and business elements. Leopold also wrote to Charles’ wife and children. In 1903 he even traveled to Richmond to visit Charles and his family.

Leopold's visit to Charles and his family in 1903

“Allen! die herzlichsten Gruessen! doch dir meiner alten Vetter sei eine doppelte Portion!“

“To ALL, my heartiest regards! but to you, my old cousin, a double dose!”

Leopold Haase to Charles Haase, November 9, 1902

Thanks to Mary Geschwind, a descendant of Charles Haase, who collected, transcribed, translated, and edited the letters and postcards before donating them to the Library of Virginia, Leopold's side of this correspondence is part of the German Heritage in Letters Collection.

“Leopold's charming and lively letters and cards to various American Haases attest to his affectionate relationship with Charles Haase, and give a fascinating glimpse of the turbulent life and times of turn-of-the-century Russia.“

- Mary Geschwind

The correspondence between Charles and Leopold Haase that has been handed down ends shortly before Charles' death in 1907.