Original 1942 Deutsche Reichsbahn Political Reliability Inquiry to the NSDAP-Confidential Personnel Screening Letter

Offered is an original confidential Deutsche Reichsbahn personnel screening document dated 3 June 1942, documenting the close relationship between the German state railway system and the National Socialist Party during World War II.

Issued by the Deutsche Reichsbahn – Reichsbahn Repair Works (Reichsbahn-Ausbesserungswerk) Magdeburg, this document was sent to the NSDAP District Leadership (Kreisleitung) in Magdeburg regarding the political reliability of a newly hired railway employee.

The employee identified is:

Horst Müller
Born: 19 September 1915

The confidential letter states that Müller had been hired as an auxiliary worker and requests that the NSDAP determine whether any information exists that would cast doubt upon his political reliability (politische Zuverlässigkeit). The Reichsbahn further requests the Party’s opinion as to whether the employee could remain in government service.

The reverse contains the official reply from the NSDAP Kreisleitung Magdeburg Personnel Office, dated 25 June 1942, stating:

“Es bestehen in politischer Hinsicht keine Bedenken.”

Translated:

“There are no political objections.”

The response bears multiple original NSDAP office stamps, signatures, routing markings, and an official receipt stamp showing the document’s return to the Reichsbahn on 2 July 1942.

Historical Significance

This document is an excellent example of the political vetting process that existed within Nazi Germany. During the Third Reich, employment in many government agencies—including the Deutsche Reichsbahn, Germany’s national railway—required review by local Nazi Party authorities to verify an individual’s political reliability and suitability for public service. The railway played a central role in the administration of the German state and, during the war, became an important component of the regime’s logistical system. Political background checks such as this illustrate how Party oversight extended into routine civil employment. (Avalon Project⁠)

Unlike many surviving Third Reich documents that consist of certificates or routine correspondence, this is a complete two-sided file showing both the original confidential inquiry and the official NSDAP response, providing a clear record of the personnel approval process.

Condition

Original period document in very good condition with expected age toning, filing holes, light fold lines, and minor handling wear. The typed text remains sharp and highly legible. Original NSDAP office stamps, signatures, routing markings, and receipt stamps are all present, making this an excellent research and display piece.

A desirable original document for collectors of Third Reich administration, Deutsche Reichsbahn history, WWII German bureaucracy, and original NSDAP paperwork.