Peter Laufer

THE LAUFFER HISTORY

1906 Publication

The Peter Laufer Branch

Peter Laufer, the Revolutionary Shoe-maker, was born Oct. 18, 1752, and died July 21, 1830. He is interred at Old Stone Church, near Siegfreids, Pa., Allen Twp., Northampton Co.

He lived in troublous times, for it is said that it was not safe to sleep in the house at night, for fear of the Indians. The settlers had to go to the block house at Howersville.

When his father Christian, and all his brothers and sisters emigrated into Westmoreland Co., he alone remained in Northampton Co. Tradition has it that he married a wife who refused to cross the Mountains.

The Old Homestead is owned by a descendant of his named Jacob P. Laufer, who has in his possession the old deeds and wills of the Peter Laufer family. By courtesy of Jacob P. Laufer we append the original Title to the Peter Laufer farm.

PATENT. No. 702.

PETER LAFFER,

152A , s Land. North,n Co,ty.

Inrolled in the Rolls of office for the State of Pennsylvania In

Patent Book No. I, page 469 &c

Witness my hand and Seal of office, March 13, 1783,

Inrollment office of Pennsylvania. JOHN MORRIS, Mk

(Seal )

THE SUPREME EXECUTIVE COUNCIL OF THE COM-MONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA.

To All to Whom These Presents Shall Come, Greeting;

KNOW YE, that in consideration of the sum Twenty four pounds six shillings & nine pence lawful Money, paid by Peter Laffer into the Receiver Generals Office of this Commonwealth, there is granted by the said Commonwealth unto the said Peter Laffer a certain tract of land called Lafferton situate in Moore; and Lehi Township, Northampton County; Beginning at a corner stone of Adam Deeters land, thence by the same North Seventy degrees East Seven perches to a corner stone of John Deeters land, thence by the same South twenty degrees East seventy one perches and a quarter to a stone set for a corner, thence North seventy degrees East forty five perches to a stone, thence South forty four Degrees East one hundred and forty eight perches to a corner stone, thence by land of David Marsh eighty two degrees and a half West two hundred and twenty nine perches to a stone set for a corner, thence South twenty five degrees East ninety perches to a corner stone of Christian Guffners land thence by the same South Seventy five degrees West twelve perches to a corner stone of Simon Cowers land, thence by the same and Adam Hickers land North thirty degrees West one hundred and seventy five perches to a corner post in the line of George Nagles land, thence by the same North eightynine degrees East eighty six perches and a half to a stone, thence North eleven degrees and a half West seventy four perches to a stone, thence North eighty degrees East forty seven perches and a half to a corner post, thence North ten degrees West, thirty seven perches to the first mentioned stone and place of beginning, containing one hundred and fifty two Acres and allowance of Six p Cent for roads &ca. With the Appurtenances (which said Tract of land was surveyed by virtue of an order on application No. 1997 entered the 22nd of October 1766 by Valentine Marsh: who by deed dated the 11 June 1767 conveyed the said land to Jacob Griesman; who by Deed dated the 24 of March 1768, conveyed the same to the said Peter Laffer and his Heirs, to the use of the said Peter Laffer his Heirs and assigns for ever; free and clear of all ristrictions (sic) and reservations as to Mines, Royalties, Quitrents or otherwise excepting and reserving only the fifth part of all Gold and Silver Ore for the use of this Commonwealth, to be delivered at the pit mouth, clear of all charges.

In witnees (sic) whereof His Excellency John Dickinson, Esq., president of the Supreme Executive Council hath hereto set. His hand, and caused the State Seal to be hereunto affixed in Council, the thirtieth day of November, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty two; and of the Commonwealth the Seventh.

Attest, JOHN DICKINSON (Seal)

T. Matlack, Secy. Seal of the State of Pennsylvania.

While searching the Archives of the Pennsylvania Historica1 Society, 13th and Locust, Philadelphia, we discovered the name of Peter Laufer:

Wills of Northampton County, Page 739. We learn that the executors of the Estate of David Mersch were George Hersch and Peter Lafter (sic).

In Pennsylvania Archives Vol. 19, Third series, Page 140, under Federal Taxes of Moore Twp., Northampton Co., for 1785, we learn that Peter Laffer owned 150 acres of land, two horses, two cattle, and no sheep. His tax was 15 shillings, 5 pence.

Grandmother Scholl tells us that her father (Peter Laufer Jr.) and grandfather (Peter Laufer, the shoemaker,) were not large men but squarely built, solid men weighing about 160 and 170 pounds. She remembers how her grandfather wound up the clock every morning when he got up, before coming to breakfast. One morning he was late in coming to breakfast. His son went to see why he did not come. He found him unable to talk, lying in bed. He motioned to his son to go to wind the clock. He laid sick in bed for a week. It was harvest time. And as he lay sick in bed, his granddaughter (Grand mother Scholl) with a fly brush made of paper, kept the flies from him, and gave him drinks. The men and women were all at work in the harvest fields. She thinks she was about eighty (sic) years old when she thus cared for her grandfather.

She remembers her grandfather's shoemaker bench. She was around when he made shoes. She would meddle with his tools, and she recalls his telling her to let things alone.

Grandmother Scholl remembers that the father of her grandfather was Christian Laufer. And she as well as Nathan of Broadheadsville, and Jacob P. Laufer of the Old Homestead, have it by tradition that Father Christian and his sons and daughters went westward to near Pittsburg, and that Peter remained East.

Kleppinger’s Fort was located near Petersville Church, east from the Laufer Homestead. Families went to this or other nearby forts every night, for in those days people were stolen by the Indians and houses were burned.

Grandmother Scholl remembers the spinning, turning the spinning wheel or reel a whole day, when you would like to sled ride, or go fishing, was an evil of the olden day. The Laufers sent their yarn to the weavers and their cloth to the fullers. In fulling the cloth, she recalls that soap was used. The cloth was then colored brown. When thus dyed it made fine cloth for dresses.

Her father was very fond of bees, of which he had about seventy. He wove basket hives out of straw for them. Deiter his neighbor, had eighty. Both tried to reach one hundred. It was said in those days that a person could not have one hundred bees together. As their number increased, they commenced going back, neither reached one hundred. In those days cane sugar was not used by the settlers, and beet sugar had not been introduced. For sweet, they were dependant (sic) upon honey, which was used freely for all purposes.

They rendered their honey in a big iron kettle. They made it hot and strained it out through a colander. The honey thus rendered was set aside in crocks. The part that did not go through the colander, was returned to the kettle. Water was added and it was boiled. It was again put through the colander. The filtrate was put in a keg or barrel and set aside to ferment. The part that remained in the colander this second time, was returned to the kettle and purified as wax. They had a way of gathering the wax as follows: as the water boiled the wax came to the surface; the hands were made wet in cold water and placed on the surface of the water, which caused the wax to adhere to the fingers. It was then rubbed off the hands and the hands again dipped in cold water.

The filtrate in the keg would ripen in a year's time. It made a drink much relished by her father and grand father, says Grandmother Scholl. In her words it was "sehr stark." The German name for this drink is Meticulum.

We are informed that Peter Laufer made shoes for Washington's army, during the three years of his enlistment. He was a shoemaker by trade, and added to this fact, he was too small to bear arms, being below the average in stature. Also, at a time when the Southern and New England Colonies gave nothing to support the Continental Government, for the prosecution of the war for Independence, he was one of the Pennsylvania German farmers that contributed to his utmost to the success of Liberty's cause.

The family of Peter Laufer consisted of three sons and five daughters. His wife's name was Magdalena Susanna Grosher.

1 Peter Jr.

2 Adam.

3 Jacob.

1 Elizabeth.

2 Catherine.

3 Susanna.

4. Maria.

5 Rachel.

Peter Laufer Jr., son of Peter, the shoemaker, the son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born June 25, 1785. He was married to Eva Bush, who died at the age of 84. He died Aug. 29, 1855. Both are interred at Stone church (sic).

Four children, Peter, Jacob, Maria and Catherine.

I. Peter Laufer III, son of Peter Jr., son of Peter, the shoemaker, son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Mar. 10, 1813. Married to Mary Ann Kleppinger. Died Jan. 15, 1893. He left one child, Jacob P. Lauffer, born Jan. 14, 1842. Jacob P. owns the Old Homestead, by direct succession from Peter Laufer, the son of Christian, the Pioneer. It is through his active cooperation that we have secured much of the Peter Laufer data, as presented in this section. He was married in 1863 to Sarah Silfies, by Rev. A. Fox. His wife was born Sept. 13, 1839. Three children.

(1) Valeria Laufer, born Aug. 20, 1865. Married in 1883 to Milton F. Danner (born Apr. 2, 1860, died Sept. 4, 1892), by Rev. Mabry.

Three children. (a) Charles P. Danner, born Oct. 4, 1883, Petersville, Pa. Married in 1901, to Sadie C. Bilheimer (born Aug. 26, 1884), by Rev. H. P. Krider. Two children. Verna L. Danner, born Aug. 17, 1901 and Marvin F. Danner, born June 29, 1904. (b) Howard S. Danner, of Catasauqqua, Pa., born Feb. 16, 1886. (c) Clara M. Danner, born May 7, 1888. Married in 1904 to Frank M. Solt, of Patersville, Pa., by Rev. J. Andrews.

(2) Elmira N. Laufer, daughter of Jacob P., born Jan. 24, 1868, married to Cyrus C. Anthony, of Minichs, Lehigh Co., Pa. Seven children. Emma S. Anthony, born Dec. 25, 1887. Frank J. Anthony, born June 21, 1889. Florence M. Anthony, born Aug. 27, 1891. Preston P. Anthony, born Aug. 31, 1895. Carrie J. Anthony, born Sept. 28, 1899. Manerva H. Anthony, born Oct. 28,1902. Warren R. Anthony, born Oct. 5, 1904.

(3) Cora M. A. Lauffer, daughter of Jacob P., born Aug. 10, 1874, married to Henry E. Smith, (born Nov. 23, 1866) by Rev. Mabry, Sigfreid (sic), Pa., R. F. D. 3. Eight children. Sarah S. Smith, born June 2, 1893. Annie E. Smith, born Sept. 11, 1894. Mabel M. Smith, born July 29, 1897. Lilly H. Smith, born Sept. 1, 1898. Howard H. Smith, born June 27, 1895, died aged 21 days. Ella E. Smith, born Oct. 14, 1899. Jacob H. Smith, born Dec. 5, 1900. Rosa B. Smith, born Oct. 9, 1902.

II. Jacob Laufer, son of Peter Laufer Jr., son of Peter, the shoemaker, son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Aug. 10, 1822. Single. He was a farmer by occupation. Died Apr. 26, 1845, aged 22 years, 8 months, 16 days.

III. Maria Laufer, daughter of Peter, son of Peter, the shoemaker, the son of Christian, the Pioneer, born Aug. 25, 1815, died Dec. 5, 1854. Married May 27, 1835 to Paul Kleppinger. Eleven children.

(1) William H. Kleppinger, born Dec. 20, 1835, Nazerath(sic), Pa.

(2) Sarah Klepinger (sic), born Apr.2, 1818; died Mar. 18, 1860.

(3) Magdalena Kleppinger, born July 29, 1839. 308 Bowery st. (sic), Akron, Ohio.

(4) John Jacob F. Kleppinger, born Sept. 9, 1840. Died Dec. 24, 1901.

(5) Christiana E. Kleppinger, born Mar. 3, 1842, Nazareth, Pa.

(6) Emma Louisa Kleppinger, born Oct. 6, 1843, Nazareth, Pa.

(7) Amandus F. Kleppinger, born Jan. 7, 1847, died Nov. 1, 1859.

(8) Mary Jane Kleppinger, born Jan. 20, 1849. Nazareth, Pa.

(9) Martin F. Kleppinger, born Oct. 1, 1850.

(10) Ellen C. Kleppinger, ,born Jan. 4, 1853.

(11) Tilghman H. Kleppinger, born Oct. 15, 1854.

No data of marriages and of grandchildren received.

IV. Catharine Laufer, daughter of Peter Laufer Jr., and Eva Bush, grand daughter of Peter Laufer, the Revolutionary Shoemaker. Catharine Laufer was born June 21, 1820. Married Nov. 22, 1840 to James Scholl, of Klecknersville, Pa. She at present makes her home with her daughter, Ellen (Mrs. A. C. Young), 30 East Walnut Lane, Germantown, Philadelphia. Seven children.

(1) Christina Elizabeth Schall, born Jan, 24, 1841. Married Feb. 6, 1866, to Jacob Schall, of Siegfried, Pa., by Rev. David Kuhns. One daughter, Ellen J. Schall, born Mar. 26, 1867, married Dec. 26, 1887, to J. F. Knecht, of Moorestown, Pa., died May 6, 1900. Married again Dec. 27, 1903 to G. J. Newhart, of Siegfried, Pa.

(2) Hannah Elizabeth Scholl, born Sept. 30, 1842. Married Feb. 10, 1867 to Rudolph Edelman, of Bath, Pa., by Rev. E. A. Fox. Three children. (a) Elmer E. Edelman, born June 27, 1871. Married to Anna Rabe. Bath, Pa. (b) Cora A. Edelman, born May 6, 1875. Married to John Remaly, of Nazareth, Pa. (c) Nama E. Edelman, born Nov. 29, 1878, married to Frank Rismiller, of Stockertown, Pa.

(3) James Henry Scholl, born July 28, 1844, married Oct. 1, 1870 to Ellen E. Meyer, by Rev. David Kuntz.

(4) Sarah Louisa Scholl, born Jan. 26, 1846. Married Aug. 16, 1863, to Stephen Hagenbuch, (died June 9, 1905, aged 55 years), by Rev. Reinecke. Bath, Pa., R. F. D. Five children. (a) Mallisa Hagenbuch, born Jan. 23, 1864, married in 1883, to James Remaly, of Bethlehem, Pa. (b) Eugene Hagenbuch, born Sept. 19, 1865, married May 28, 1892, to Alice Fehnel, Bath, Pa., R. F. D. (c) Mary Hagenbuch, born Feb. 16, 1868, married Dec. 24, 1889 to Charles Kocher, of Bath, Pa. R. F. D. (d) William Hagenbuch, born Mar. 10, 1872, died Sept. 2, 1873. Interred at Moorestown, Pa. (d) Eva Hagenbuch, born Mar. 15, 1878. Died Sept. 14, 1879. Interred at Moorestown, Pa.

(5) Mary Jane Scholl, born Dec. 28, 1847, died Mar. 1, 1850. Interred at Moorestown, Pa.

(6) Amelia Rebecca Scholl, born Aug. 20, 1849. Married June 1874 to Franklin S. Scholl, by Rev. R. B. Kistler, Bath, Pa. R. F. D. 1.

(7) Ellen Catherine Scholl, born Sept. 16, 1858. Married Dec. 21, 1879, to Asry C. Young, by Rev. W. J. Andres. Four children. Amy May Young, born May 1, 1880. Carrie Alice Young, born Nov. 27, 1884. William Henry Young, born Feb. 8, 1887, died Feb. 10, 1887. Interred at Moorestown Graveyard. Robert James Young, born June 15, 1890. A. C. Young was cashier of the First National Bank, Pen Argyl, Pa. In 1904 he became Treasurer of the Franklin Trust Co., of Phila. It was at his home in Pen Argyl, that the Peter Laufer branch of the Laufer family was organized.

ADAM LAUFER.

Adam Laufer, the second son of Peter, the shoemaker, the son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born in the year 1790. He was married to Elizabeth Koehler. He moved from Northampton Co., into Monroe Co., near Broadheadsville. He was the father of eight children.

I. Joseph Laufer, born Sept. 13, 1816. Married Apr. 28, 1839, to Elizabeth Frantz, by Rev. Decker. Ten children.

(1) James Laufer, born Apr. 24, 1040. Died July 10, 1842.

(2) William Laufer, born Oct. 9, 1841, married in 1870 to Florence Bradley. McIntyre, Iowa. Three children. Clarence, Edwin and Lizzie.

(3) Mary Ann Laufer, born Nov, 14, 1843. Married July 8, 1863 to S. G. Tyrrell, of Riceville, Iowa. Eight children. (a) Minnie, four children. (b) Oscar, two children. (c) Viola, married to John Wing, two children, Forda and Vera. (d) Alda, one child. (e) Cora, married to Hunter, one child. (f) George Tyrell is dead. (g) Willard. (h) Florence, two children.

(4) Freeman Laufer, born Aug. 8, 1845. Married June 16, 1868, to Vinia Staley, of Stockton, Ill. Two sons and three daughters (a) Myron Laufer, two children, Merrill and Helen. (b) Cassie Laufer, married to George D. Paul, of Mt. Carrel (sic), Ill. One daughter, Bertha. (c) Wallace Laufer, one son, Leo. (d) Mabel Laufer, married to Fred. Allanson, of Stockton, Ill. One son, Freeman. (e) Edna Laufer.

(5) Julia A. Laufer, born Dec. 14, 1846, married in Nov. 1866, to Daniel Shearer. Died Oct. 20, 1884. Interred at Milltown, South Dakota. Four children (a) Addie, four children. (b) George, one child. (c) Vestna, a trained nurse in Rockford, Ill.

(6) Lucinda Laufer, born Aug. 4, 1984. Married Oct. 8, 1865 to J. M. Blair, of Liberal, Mo. Four children. (a) Clarence, four children. (b) Ezra. (c) Lizzie. (d) Edna.

(7) Lucy A. Laufer, born June 19, 1853. Married Dec. 25, 1871 to E. W. Gates, of Stockton, Ill. Four children. (a) Delna married to Edward Colver, of Freeport, Ill. (b) Edith, married to Edward Auman. One child, Gladys. (c) Clarence. (d) Loyal.

(8) Hannah E. Lauffer, born Oct. 28, 1855. Died July 23, 1879. Interred at Milltown, S. Dak.

(9) Josiah Laufer, born Mar. 3, 1858. Died Oct. 28, 1875. Interred at Ward's Grove, Ill.

(10) George H. Laufer, born Mar. 31, 1865. Died Aug. 25, 1865. Interred at Wards Grove, Ill.

II. Charles Laufer, son of Adam Laufer, son of Peter, the shoemaker, son of Christian, the Pioneer, was born Jan. 10, 1818. Married in Jan. 1842, to Catherine Shupp. He died Jan. 23, 1902, aged 84 years, 13 days. Interred at Broadheadsville, Monroe Co., Pa. His wife was born Aug. 17, 1822 and died Aug. 17, 1886. Aged 64 years. Nine children.

(1) Anna Laufer, born June 2, 1843, married Dec. 26, 1864, to John Wagner, of Pen Argyl, Pa. Nine children. George S., Robert A., Eugene, Charles, Joseph, Nathan, Infant, Katy and Lizzie J. Wagner.

(2) Jacob Laufer, born Nov. 30, 1844, married Sept. 22, 1867, to Elizabeth Brong, Lehighton, Pa.

(3) Nathan Lauffer, born Oct. 15, 1846. Married July 27, 1873 to Angeline Weiss, by Rev. D. E. Schredler. Three children. (a) Calvin W. Laufer, born Apr. 6, 1874. Married Nov. 28, 1895, to Ellen Metzgar. Rev. Calvin W. Laufer, is pastor of the Steinway Reformed Church, Steinway, Long Island City, N. Y. One son, Edward Laufer. (b) Mary Jane Laufer, born Nov. 22, 1875, married Jan. 1, 1901, to Prof. Geo. B. Kunkle, of Pen Argyl, Pa. Two sons, Russel, deceased, and Brinton L. Kunkle, born Aug. 9, 1903. (c) Anson E. Laufer, born Mar. 16, 1890, of Broadheadsville, Pa.

(4) Emaline Laufer, born Apr. 8, 1848, died Aug. 25, 1893. Interred at Broadheadsville, Pa. Wife of David A. Everitt. Six children. Two still living, Ellen and Lizzie J. Everitt.

(5) George Laufer, born May 8, 1850, married June 14, 1871, to Amanda Weiss, by Rev. D. E. Schoedler. Eight children. (a) Harry Laufer, born Sept. 21, 1871, married Aug. 14, 1892, to Miss Kunkle, P. 0. Lehighton, Pa. Three children, Roy B. Laufer, born Jan. 26, 1893, died Feb. 19, 1893. Arlina May Laufer, born Sept. 30, 1895. Norwood G. Laufer, born Feb. 23, 1899. (b) Phoebe Laufer, born Apr. 10, 1873, married Nov. 29, 1894, to Charles W. Miller. Two children. George Noble Miller, born Sept. 18, 1890, died Nov. 2, 1896. Viola Evelyn Miller, born Sept. 23, 1903. (c) Anna Laufer, born Nov. 7, 1874. (d) Lillie Laufer, born Sept. 8, 1876, died May 18, 1877. (e) Robert Laufer, born May 4, 1878, married Aug. 18, 1896, to Miss Serfass. Silk weaver at Lehighton, Pa. Two children. Esther Fern Laufer born Nov. 27, 1897 and Paulina Thelma Laufer, born Jan. 15, 1900. (f) Lena Laufer, born Nov. 26, 1879, married Sept. 25, 1896, to Richard S. Chynoweth, of Roselle, N. J. Two children. Searle Romain, born Apr. 4, 1897 and Marvin Richard, born Apr. 16, 1899. (g) Harvy T. Laufer, born Oct. 20, 1892. (h) Bessie May Laufer, born Sept. 22, 1891.

(6) Amanda Laufer, sixth in the family of Charles Laufer, son of Adam, son of Peter, the shoemaker, son of Christian, the Pioneer. Born Jan. 20, 1854, married Dec. 8, 1877 to Jeremiah Shafer, of Allentown, Pa.

(7) Joseph Laufer, son of Charles, was born Nov. 16, 1856, married May 6, 1883, to Alice Greenamoyer, by Rev. T. A. Huber. Three children. (a) Lizie Jane Laufer, born Nov. 22, 1883. Married Nov. 26, 1903, to Clayton Fetheman, of Stroudsburg, Pa. (b) Anna Katheryne Laufer, born Sept. 12, 1885. (c) Mae Augusta Laufer, born Sept. 21, 1888. Broadheadsville, Pa.

(8) Charles A. Laufer, the photographer, of Allentown, Pa.

(9) Louina Laufer, born Nov. 3, 1858, died Oct. 10, 1870.

III. Samuel Laufer, son of Adam, son of Peter, the shoemaker, son of Christian, the Pioneer. Born Nov. 26, 1819, married in 1842 to Elizabeth Andrew (born Apr. 10, 1821, died Oct. 3, 1881, interred in Conyngham, Luzerne Co., Pa.) Samuel Laufer died July 25, 1976, in the same place. Four children:

(1) Peter Laufer, born Nov. 21, 1842. Married to Rebecca Billheimer. Sugarloaf, Luzerne Co., Pa.

(2) Mariah Laufer, born May 28, 1844. Died Sept. 10, 1892.

(3) Lucy Laufer, born July 20, 1846. Married to Frank Keck, 76 Lennington st. (sic), Trenton, N. J.

(4) William H. Laufer, born Mar. 8, 1855. P. 0. Horton, Brown Co., Kansas.

IV. Peter Laufer, son of Adam Laufer, son of Peter, the shoemaker, son of Christian, the Pioneer was born Jan. 29, 1822. Married to Mary Hufsmith (born Aug. 6, 1823, died Mar. 29, 1885). Peter Laufer died May 27, 1898, aged 76 years, three months, 26 days. He resided at Broadheadsville, Monroe Co., Pa. Five Children.

(1) Sarah A. Laufer, born Aug. 18, 1845, married Aug. 18, 1867, to Reuben Bitting, by Rev. Geo. B. Dechant, 4th & Birch st., So. Bethlehem, Pa. Four children.

(a) Oliver F. Bitting, born Oct. 19, 1873, married to Matilda Castner, 138 Albert St., Steinway, Long Island City, N. Y. (b) George Bitting, born Feb. 11, 1869, died Aug. 1870. Interred at Blue Church, Coopersburg, Pa. (c) Mary Bitting, born Jan. 1, 1875, married to Harry Rhoad, of Chestnut st. (sic), South Bethlehem, Pa. (d) Chas. R. Bitting, born Mar. 5, 1887, 4th & Birch St, So. Bethlehem, Pa.

(2) Edwin Laufer, of So. Bethlehem, Pa., born 1848, married in 1867, to Catherine Kresge, (died in 1876), by Rev. Geo. B. Decker. Three children by this marriage. (a) Francis R Laufer, of Lebanon, Pa., born in 1868. (b) Wilson P. Laufer, of Camden, N. J. Two children. (c) Jennie Laufer, born Jan. 10, 1869, married Feb. 1, 1893, to Rev. Edgar Campbell, of Lansdale, Pa., by Rev. H. S. Fisher. Three children. Helen Margaret Campbell, born Dec 20, 1894, died Jan. 29, 1900, interred at Phoenixville, Pa. Edgar Laufer Campbell, born June 12, 1896. Paul Frederick Campbell, born Mar. 6, 1901.

Edwin Laufer, was again married Apr. 24, 1878, to Annabella Boyer (died in 1903). Three children. (a) Joseph E. Laufer, born in 1879. (b) Frederick W. Laufer, of Philadelphia, born in 1880. (c) Helen E. Laufer, born in 1887.

(3) Milton Laufer, proprietor of the Wyandotte Hotel, So. Bethlehem, Pa., was born Feb. 9, 1852. He was married in 1876 to Sarah E. Groman, by Rev. N. Z. Snyder and again in 1900 to Sadie E. Klotz, by Rev. David Scherier. Two children by the first marriage and two by the second. (a) Howard R Laufer, born Sept. 14 1879, married Apr. 30, 1902, to Irene L. Munich, by Rev. G. H. Trull. One child. Robert M. Laufer, born Dec 7, 1903. (b) Frank P. Laufer, born May 1, 1882. (c) Harry E. Laufer, born Feb. 2, 1902. Marie E. R. Laufer, born Mar. 11, 1903.

(4) Julia Laufer, daughter of Peter Laufer, son of Adam, son of Peter, the shoemaker, son of Christian, the Pioneer. Born May 25, 1857, married to Edwin C. Shaffer, of Broadheadsville, Pa. Three children:

(a) Flora Mae Shaffer, born Apr. 12, 1880, married to Geo. K. Halteman, of Wind Gap, Pa., one son, Austin Halteman.

(b) George Emery Shaffer, born Oct. 28, 1883. (c) Mary Lottie Shaffer, born Mar. 25, 1884.

(5) Lena Laufer, married to William Biel (born Jan. 20, 1847). Lena Laufer was born Jan. 10, 1850, died June 12, 1888.

To them were born eight children.

(a) Edwin P. Biel, born Dec. 3, 1871. Married to Ellen Kidd (born Jan. 20, 1865).

(b) Harvy F. Biel, born March 17, 1873. Married to Mary Lee, born June 30, 1868.

(c) Agnes J. Biel, born Apr. 11, 1875. Married to Calvin Miller (born Dec. 8, 1877). Two children, Clifford E. Miller, born Feb. 28, 1898, and Stewart W. Miller, born Sept. 8, 1899.

(d) Mame A. Biel, born June 18, 1877. Married to N. Newhard (born Apr. 16, 1872). Six children.

Stanley A. Newhard, born Apr. 27, 1896.

Elwood S. Newhard, born Nov. 12, 1897.

Leota G. Newhard, born Jan. 4, 1899.

Mary M. Newhard, born June 2, 1900. Died Aug. 31, 1900.

Isma I. Newhard, born Jan. 31, 1902. Died May 31, 1902.

Dora R. Newhard, born June 21, 1903.

(e) William E. Biel, born May 24, 1879. (f) Clara E. Biel, born Jan. 21, 1881. Married to Daniel Pretorius (born Mar. 6, 1877). One child. Helen Pretorius, born May 27, 1903. Died Aug. 1903. (g) Sallie A. Biel, born Jan. 30, 1883. (h) Elmer M. Biel, born Nov. 18, 1885. (i) Infant born June 12, 1888, died June 12, 1888.

V. Henry Laufer, born July 30, 1825. Married to Lovina Hufsmith (born Aug. 12. 1826, died Dec 4, 1875), Saylorsburg, Pa. Six children. (1) Anna L. Laufer, born Feb. 18, 1850, died Sept. 5, 1852. (2) Franklin Laufer, born Nov. 3, 1852, died June 8, 1881. Interred at Bethlehem, Pa. (3) Steward Laufer, born Sept. 2, 1855, married to Minnie Stucker. Nazareth, Pa. Two children. (4) Emma L. Laufer, born Nov. 26, 1857, married to Geo. Fable, of Saylorsburg, Pa. Five children. (5) Alice Laufer, born Nov. 32, 1864, Saylorsburg, Pa. (6) Ellen Laufer, born, Aug. 5, 1869. Married to Dr. Wolfe. Two children.

VI. Jonas Laufer, son of Adam, son of Peter, the shoemaker, son of Christian, the Pioneer. Jonas L. was born May 25, 1828, married in Apr. 29, 1855, to Polly Kresge. Three children. (a) Tilgham Laufer, born Oct. 2, 1858, 1007 Gibbon st. (sic), Pittsburg, Pa. (b) Alvin Laufer, born Sept. 7, 1860, married Mar. 4, 1890, to Clara M. Flyt. P. 0. Broadheadsville, Pa. (c) Ella E. Laufer, born May 16, 1864, married in fall of 1891, to Charles H. Lerch, College Hill, Easton, Pa., Lerch's Preparatory School.

VII. Phoebe Laufer, daughter of Adam Laufer, was born Feb. 22, 1833. Married to Isaac Rodenbach, of' Broadheadsville, Pa. Two sons and three daughters. (1) Oscar Rodenbach, of Broadheadsville, (2) Jeremiah Rodenbach, of Deposit, N. Y. The daughters are Lizzie, Hannah and Mary.

VIII. Mary Laufer, daughter of Adam Laufer, was born Aug. 1, 1835, married to Amos Shupp. Two children, died in infancy.

Summary of the Adam Laufer connection, as per data of Nathan Laufer, of Broadheadsville, 1904.

Six sons and two daughters.

Thirty-six grandchildren.

94 great grand children.

64 great, great grandchildren.

We are indebted to the intelligent interest of Nathan Laufer, for much of the data presented in this section.

Jacob Laufer, the youngest son of Peter, the shoemaker, son of Christian, the Pioneer. This branch of the family is otherwise known as the William R. Laufer section, so named from his illustrious grandson.

Jacob Laufer, was the youngest son of Peter, the Revolutionary Shoemaker. He was married to Elizabeth Strauss and two years after this marriage, he died of Pneumonia. A son born three months after his death, was his only descendant. He died aged 28 years, and was interred in the cemetery at Old Stone church. A temporary slab was erected and the exact date of his death has not been obtainable. His wife, Elizabeth Strauss, (also buried at Old Stone Church), was later married to Jacob Shutt, by whom she had a large family.

Jacob Lawfer, the son of Jacob Laufer, son of Peter, the Revolutionary shoemaker, was born Nov. 1, 1814. Married Oct. 12, 1834, to Leah Steckel, died May 22, 1895. He was a prosperous farmer of Northampton County, Pa. Three children.

I. William Richard Laufer, born Aug. 5, 1838. Married Nov. 15, 1857, to Hannah Kleppinger, by Rev. Cyrus Becker. Died Sept. 11, 1900. Four children.

(a) Jacob Henry Lawfer, born Aug. 24, 1858. Married Aug. 17, 1882, to Lilly S. Dannenhuer, by Rev. R. A. Hill, Allentown, Pa. Five children.

Lillie Mabel Lawfer, born Sept. 13, 1883.

William Levan Lawfer, born Oct. 13, 1888.

Mirian E. Lawfer, born Dec. 13, 1890.

Stanley E. Lawfer, born July 4, 1892.

Ruth A. Lawfer, born Oct. 12, 1893.

(b) John N. Lawfer, born Feb. 9, 1860. Married Dec. 1, 1881, to Irene C. Saeger, by Rev. Reuben Hill, Allentown, Pa. Five children.

Emily M. Lawfer, born Oct. 27, 1882.

Charles H. Lawfer, born June 23, 1886. Died Aug. 8, 1887. Interred in Union Cemetery, Allentown, Pa.

Harold S. Lawfer, born Jan. 17, 1889.

William R. Lawfer, born June 17, 1891.

Marian S. Lawfer, born Feb. 14, 1896. Died Sept. 10, 1896. Interred in Union Cemetery, Allentown, Pa.

(c) Alvin W. Lawfer, third son of William R. Lawfer, born Oct. 23. 1863. Married May 20, 1888, to Ida V. Engleman, by Dr. S. G. Wagner, Allentown, Pa,

(d) Annie Lawfer, born Oct. 15, 1873. Married Oct. 23, 1900, to Edward H. Wetherhold, by Rev. Geo. H. Richards, 313 North Sixth St., Allentown, Pa. Two children.

William E. Wetherhold, born Aug. 14, 1901.

John E. Wetherhold, born Oct. 14, 1902.

II. Jacob A. Lawfer, second son of Jacob Lawfer, and brother of William R. Lawfer, was born Oct. 8, 1841. Married Feb. 4, 1868, to Elizabeth Scholl (died Oct. 28, 1905) by Rev. Robt. A. Litzenberger. 314 N. Sixth St., Allentown, Pa. Three children.

(a) Nama A. Lawfer, born Aug. 12, 1868, married May 9, 1889, to Joseph Frederick, of Allentown, Pa.;

(b) Alfred Mr. Lawfer, born July 6, 1876, married Sept 25, 1900 to Hannah Bellford, 314 N. Sixth St., Allentown, Pa. One child. Edward Russell Lawfer, born June 12, 1902.

III. Marian Elizabeth Lawfer, daughter of Jacob Lawfer, and sister of W. R. Lawfer, was born Aug. 14, 1843, married Nov. 29, 1869, to William H. Rice, of Moorestown, Northampton Co., Pa. Four children.

(a) Robert E. Rice, born Mar. 20, 1870, married Sept. 8, 1896, to Carrie K. Bropst, by Rev. Steinhauser. So. Bethlehem, Pa. Four children.

William B. Rice, born Feb. 3, 1897.

John H. Rice, born Sept. 16, 1899.

Murk S. Rice, born Dec. 28, 1900.

Dorothy M. Rice, born Sept. 20, 1902.

(b) Carrie N. Rice, born Mar. 25, 1872. Died Aug. 8, 1872. Interred at Salem's Church, Moorestown, Pa.

(d) George A. Rice, Moorestown, Pa., born May 11, 1881.

WM. R. LAWFER.

The central figure among the eastern descendants of Christian Lauffer, the Pioneer, is the late Wm. R Lawfer, of Allentown. The day he was buried, all the stores of that city closed their doors, a mark of respect shown to no other citizen of Allentown.

“The Lehigh Register”, of Allentown, Pa., under date of Sept. 11, 1900, published a character sketch of Wm. R Lawfer, which we reproduce in full.

We follow it with a biographical sketch of his son, John M, Lawfer, taken from Lehigh Valley biographies.

The death of William R. Lawfer removes a man who for upwards of thirty years was prominently identified with everything that tended toward the material and industrial progress and advancement of this city. One of its foremost merchants, he was ever keenly alive to everything that contributed to the city's welfare and prosperity. And in all this he was never a mere negative factor; a man who simply stood afar off and reaped where others sowed. He contributed amply from his resources and his advice was always eagerly sought and followed. He early saw the possibilities for shrewd financial investments in this city and with his trained foresight, shrewd commonsense and business perspicacity he forecasted the direction of the city's development and expansion and he backed his faith with his money and to him more than to anyone else the development of the northern part of Allentown in the vicinity of the old fair grounds is due. His courage and energy inaugarated (sic) a movement and set a pace which has been followed since by scores of others who reaped rich harvests where he first led the way.

The man may be forgotten, but the part he played in the expansion of this city will long be remembered, and one of its most beautiful sections, adorned with handsome and cosy (sic) residences, will ever stand a monument to his courage, faith and energy. He advanced where others faltered; he had faith where others doubted, and he had zeal, where others flagged.

As a mercantile man his fame was by no means local. Although much of the burden of the work of directing the affairs of his vast etablishment (sic), one of the largest in the Lehigh Valley, was taken off his shoulders during .the later years of his life by his sons and brothers, yet he was daily in his office guiding, advising and directing its intricate affairs with a clear head and a steady hand. He started in business in a small way, but he kept pace with the spirit of the age and never lagged behind. Enterprising, but never rash, daring but never reckless, and steering clear of all those devices and treacherous shoals which point the way to sudden riches only to end in hopeless disaster, and conducting his business on sound; safe and conservative methods, he lived to see himself at the head of one of the largest establishments of its kind in Eastern Pennsylvania.

He was a many-sided man and he had deep, religious convictions. In furthering the cause of his faith he showed the same zeal, devotion and singleness of purpose which always characterized him in whatsoever he undertook. In his death the Reformed Church sustains a heavy loss and he will be keenly missed in the councils of that denomination. He was not a christian who only gave lid service, but his purse kept pace with his counsel and his money gave the stamp of approval to what his conscience advised.

An institution dear to his heart was Bethany Orphans’ (sic) Home at Womelsdorf. He was one of its trustees and was one of its board of Managers. So highly were his labors appreciated by his colleagues that at the recent celebration of Orphans' Home Day they sent a special message of sympathy, appreciation and regard to their late co-worker. Perhaps nothing in Mr. Lawfer’s long and active career gave him so much pleasure and gratification as that message of esteem and remembrance. He was one of the pillars of the institution and the originator in this section of those annual excursions to the home, which brought thousands of people in contact with this noble specimen of christian charity and philantrophy on the part of the Reformed Church, and which brought thousands of dollars into the treasury of the institution. He was also greatly interested in our local Young Men’s Christian Association.

Always a man of strong and vigorous physique, which neither age nor the manifold duties and cares inseparable from his large business seemed able to impair, the sudden death of his wife, several years ago, was a blow from which he never recovered. From that time on his physical powers commenced to wane and he never afterwards was the same man.

In his domestic and social relations he fulfilled all the requirements of a loving husband and a kind and indulgent father and a neighbor and citizen who never forfeited the respect and esteem of his fellow citizens. He was liberal in his contributions to charity, although unostentatious in all his philanthropic work. He was successful because he deserved success. Honest and upright in all his dealings, a keen judge of men and motives, a merchant of unswerving integrity and upright in his walk in the community in which he labored for so many years, the city has been the better for his living and is the poorer for his death.

John N. Lawfer was the great-great grandson of Peter Laufer.

The Lauffer History 165

JOHN N. LAWFER.

John N. Lawfer, throughout the period of his business career actively and prominently connected with one of the leading

department stores, W, R. Lawfer & Co., of Allentown, was born

in Kreidersville, Northampton county, Pennsylvania, February

9, 1860, and is an honored representative of one of the old American families, whose connection with the new world dates back to the seventeenth century.

His great-grandfather was Peter Lawfer, and his grandparents were Jacob and Leah (Steckel) Lawfer, natives of Northampton county, Pennsylvania. Jacob Lawfer was a farmer by occupation, and conducted his operations for many years on the old family homestead in Moore township, Northampton county, Pennsylvania. Among the children born to him was a son, William R, Lawfer.

William R. Lawfer, father of John N. Lawfer, was born August 5, 1838, on the old homestead in Moore township. Northampton county, died at Allentown, Pennsylvania, September 14, 1900, and his remains were interred in Fairview Cemetery, Allentown. The days of William R. Lawfer's boyhood and youth were passed in the usual manner of farmer lads. He assisted in the labors for which his age and strength fitted him, and attended the common schools until thirteen years of age, when

166 The Lauffer History

he entered upon his business career as a clerk in the store of his uncle, Aaron Steckel, with whom he remained for six months.

He was employed by Stephen Raeder, of Bath, Pennsylvania, in the spring of 1851, and continued in that position until the business was sold, after which he remained with Flick & Smock, successors of his former employer, for four years. Desirous then of enjoying better educational privileges than had previously been afforded him, he became a pupil in the select school taught by Dr. Thomas C. Apple, and subsequently continued his studies in the Phillip Lehman select school, at Easton, Pennsylvania, taught by John H. Oliver, Resuming his place in the business world, he was employed in the general store of Joseph Wanamaker, (a relative of John Wanamaker, the famous Philadelphia and New York merchant), in Kreidersville, Pennsylvania, and afterwards by A. H. and Amos Hahn, in Bath, with whom he continued for eight years. During the year 1865-66 fe (sic) was a salesman in the store of Hon. Joseph Laubach, Stemton, Pennsylvania, and in the latter named year became a resident of Allentown. and entered into partnership with W. R. Steckel under the firm style of Lawfer & Steckel. They carried a large stock of dry goods and groceries, and the Business was continued by the original partners until 1874, when Mr. Steckel disposed of his interest to George W. Hartzell, and in 1876 Mr. Hartzell was succeeded by Jacob Lawfer, a brother of William R Lawfer. At the expiration of three years time the sons of William R. Lawfer - J. Harry, John N. and Alvin W. -- entered the firm. They conducted an extensive department store, covering acres of floor space, which is still one of the leading mercantile enterprises of the city ( Mr. Lawfer was a director in the Allentown National Bank, a member of the ,board of trustees of the Allentown College for Women, and one of the charter members of the Allentown Hospital, and was interested in all matters calculated to advance the welfare of the community. He was very active in religious and benevolent work, held membership in the Zion Reformed Church, represented the Congregation as delegate elder at meetings of classes and synod, and also served as superintendent of the Sunday school connected therewith for many years. He was a member of the board of directors of the Bethany

The Lauffer History 167

Orphan Home of the Reformed Church, at Womelsdorf, Berks county, Pennsylvania.

In 1857 William R. Lawfer was united in marriage to Miss Hannah Kleppinger, a daughter of John Kleppinger, a prominent and successful farmer near Siegfried's Bridge, Northampton Co.,

Pennsylvania.

John N. Lawfer, son of William R. and Hannah (Kleppinger) Lawfer, was reared in Allentown, Pennsylvania, acquired a knowledge of the rudimentary branches of study in its public schools, later was a student at Muhlenberg College, and completed his education at Franklin and Marshall College, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He received his business training in his father's store, and after serving in the capacity of salesman for some time was admitted to a partnership. Mr. Lawfer, who is clear headed. enterprising and discriminating in his business methods, became quickly recognized as a progressive merchant, and his keen sagacity and strong purpose, which were salient elements in his career, combined with strict integrity won for him a prominent place in the commercial circles of Allentown, where his word is considered as good as his bond. The enterprise with which he is connected is conducted along modern business lines, and its great increase in trade during recent years is in a large measure due to the capable and efficient efforts of John N. Lawfer. Aside from his extensive business interests, Mr. Lawfer devotes considerable of his time and means to benevolent work more particularly in behalf of orphans, being an active and potent factor in the success of the Bethany Orphan Home of the Reformed church, at Womelsdorf, Berks county, with which his father was for many years actively identified.

He is also a member of the board of trustees of the Phoebe Deconess and Old Folks Home of Allentown. He is a member of St. John's Reformed church, and served in its board for a number of years. Mr. Lawfer enjoys the acquaintance of a wide circle of friends, who admire him for his many excellent characteristics, and he and his family occupy an enviable position in the social life of Allentown. Mr. Lawfer so closely resembled

168 The Lauffer History

his father in looks, disposition and physique that he was often taken for his brother.

John N. Lawfer was married to Miss Irene C. Saeger, daughter of Henry J. Saeger, and they became the parents of five children: Emily M., Charles H., who died in infancy; Harold S., Marian S., who also died in infancy; and William R. Lawfer. Mr. Lawfer is a faithful and devoted husband, a kind and indulgent father, and their home is noted for the utmost hospitality.

RACHEL LAUFER

Rachel, eldest of the five daughters of Peter, the Revolutionary shoemaker, was married to Henry Renner. H. had two daughters, Julia married to a Bartholomew and Pollie married to a Stewart. Tradition has it that they moved to the vicinity of Meadville, Pa. Their location is not known to grandmother Scholl, nor Jacob P. Laufer, who have supplied us with most of the data, as to the daughters of Old Peter.

ELIZABETH LAUFER.

Elizabeth Lawfer, daughter of Peter, the Revolutionary shoemaker, was married to Matheus Greber. She was born November 14, 1779, and died November 14, 1859, aged 79 years. She was married in 1801, by Rev. Funderslot. The inscription on her tomb stone, at Old Stone Church, tells us that she lived in married life with Matheus Greber 52 years, and was the mother of 12 children. He died Feb. 5, 1858, aged 88 years, I month and 29 days. By occupation he was a nailsmith, and resided at Petersville, Pa.

Their children were :

( I ) George Greber, single. Born Sept. 17, 1802. Died Apr, 5, 1892. Interred at Petersville, Pa.

(1) Cathrine Greber died Nov. 13, 1865. Aged 57 years and I day.

(3) Susanna Greber, died Oct. 7, 1860, aged 48 years.

(4) Lydia Greber died Nov. 14, 1864, aged 43 years and 1month.

(5) Elizabeth Greber, born Oct, 25, 1801. Died Dec. 1, 1852. Married to John Ferrel. One child.

The Lauffer History 169

John Ferrel, of Siegfrieds, Pa., born Dec. 11, 1531, died Dec. 11, 1894. Married to Malinda Hellem (born in 1842), in 1860, by Rev. Kuhns. Two children.

(a) Henry Ferrel, son of John Ferrel, son of Elizabeth Greber, daughter of Elizabeth Laufer, of Siegfrieds, Pa., born March 3, 1861. Married to Fanny Snyder (died. Apr. 13, 1889, aged 27 years, 3 months and 11 days). Four children.

John F. Ferrel, born Dec. 5, 1868. Died Jan. 11, 1875. Lizzie Ferrel, born Dec 28, 1882. Minnie Ferrel, born Feb. 26, 1885.

Fannie Ferrel, born Apr. 8, 1889.

(b) Levina Ferrel a sister of Henry Ferrel, was born

Sept. IS, 1862. Married to Levi Yehl (born July 21, 1865). Six

children.

Anne L. Yehl, born Jan. 26, 1884.

Elvin E. Yehl, born Nov. 7, 1886.

Cora 13. Yehl, born Apr. 11, 1888.

Harry E. Yehl, born Apr. 19, 1891,

Gertrude M. Yehl, born Oct. 4, 1894,

H. Ellen Yehl, born Aug. 31, 1900. P. 0. Siegfricds, Pa.

(6) Andrew Greber, son of Elizabeth Laufer, daughter of Peter, the Revolutionary shoemaker, was born July 17, 1818. Died May 13, 1900. Aged 81 years, 9 months, 26 days. He was married in 1840 to Leah Spengler (born Sept. 14, 1824, died May 21, 1899), by Rev. Mensing, Petersville, Pa. Six children.

(a) Magdalenna Greber, born Nov. 10, 1844. Died Aug. 10, 1853.

(b) Adam Greber, born May 21, 1851. Died Dec. 23, 1853.

(d) Eva M. Greber, born June 17, 1849. Married to Mathies Houser (born July 29, 1844), of Allentown, Pa., by Rev. Kistler. Died Oct. 3, 1884.

(e) Amanda Greber, born May 21, 1854. Married in 1870 to Henry Long, of Walnutport, Pa. Died June 27, 1885.

(f ) Mary A. Greber, born Nov. 11, 1856, married in 1884 to Lewis Minich, of Petersville, Pa,, by Rev. Mary ; died June 26,1900. Lewis Minich was 6 Apr. 15, 1853. Three children.

170 The Lauffer History

John M. Minich, born Apr. 26 1888. Henry Minich and Amanda Minich.

(g) Rebecca Greber was born Nov. 26, 1854. Married in 1878 to William H. Gross, of Siegfrieds, Pa., (born May 12, 1856) by J.W. Andrew. Three children.

Amanda Gross, born Jan. 11, 1880. Married in 1904 to Charles Jacoby.

Andrew Gross, born Oct, 17, 1884

Emma Gross, born Feb. 25, 1886

(7) Mary M. Greber (Polly) daughter of Elizabeth Laufer, daughter of Peter, the Revolutionary shoemaker, was born Oct. 28, 1810. Married in 1835 to Ruben Person (born June 13, 1810) by Rev. Mensing. Tailor, at Petersville, Pa. She died Feb. 17, 1890. Aged 85 years, 3 months, 9 days. He died Jan, 18, 1847. Two children.

(a) Mary Person, born Dec, 18, 1836, died Sept. 19, 1844.

(b) Emalina Person, born August. 19, 1841. Married in 1862 to Geo. Silfies, of Petersville, Pa., by Rev. A. Fox. Six children.

Rev. Urias O. Silfies, of Philadelphia, born Mar. 23, 1863, married to Emma Fehnel.

Henry M. Silfies, born July 31, 1864. P.O., Edelmans, Pa. Blacksmith. Married to Catherine Gether.

Terinus T. Selfies (sic), born June 1, 1869. Petersville, Pa. Married to Rosa Silfies (?).

Carmie E. Silfies, born Dec. 17, 1871. Married to Ellen V. Marsh, Petersville, Pa.

Calvin Silfies, born May 22, 1874. Married to Emma Engler, Petersville, Pa.

Emma L. Silfies, born Dec. 3, 1878. Married Ulysis Schall, Petersville, Pa.

Mary M. Greber was again married to Peter Silfies (born May 26, 1821, died Oct. 12, 1897), of Petersville, Pa. One child.

Sarah Silfies, married to Cyrus Edelman, of Petersville, Pa.

The Lauffer History 171

(8) Julian Greber, born Oct. 13, 1822. Married in 1845 to Louis Spengler, of Petersville, Pa. He was born Dec. 18, 1821, and died Oct. 15, 1903. Five children.

(a) Christian Spengler, born Feb. 16, 1856, died Mar. 27, 1857.

(b) Sobina Spengler, born Feb. 3, 1847. Married in 1872 to Edwin Newhard (born Sept. 14, 1843) by Rev. Lessenberger. Siegfried, Pa. One child. Emma M. Newhard, born Sept. 14, 1875, married to William H. Heiney, of Seigfrieds, Pa.

(c) Elizabeth Spengler, born Dee. 15, 1848, died June 7, 1903. Married in 1873 to Joseph Yehl (born Mar. 4, 1848), by Rev. Andrews. Seigfrieds, Pa. One child. William Yehl, born July 18, 1874. Siegfrieds, Pa., married to Mary J. Rismiller.

(d) Sallie Spengler, born May g, 1852, married to William

Zellner, of Kreidersville, Pa. One child. Elmer Zellner, married to Lillie Lindaman. Kreidersville, Pa.

(e) Mary Jane Spengler, born Nov. 16, 1860. Married to

Monroe Solt (born July 28, 1857), Indianland, Pa. One child.

John H. Solt, born Mar. 21, 1885.

CATHRINE LAUFER.

Cathrine Laufer, daughter of Peter, the Revolutionary shoemaker, was born July 26, 1778. Died May 28, 1847, aged 68 years, 10 months, 2 days. She is interred at Deiter's Church, Petersville, Pa. She was married to Michael Asch, born Oct. 10, 1773, died May 13, 1812. Aged 38 years, 7 months, 3 days. Six children.

( 1 ) SaIlie Asch, married to Samuel Steaver. They went

west long ago, and is said to have three sons in Iowa.

(2) Michael Asch. No data received. He had a son Oliver Asch, who was a soldier in the Civil War, whose widow, Lydia Asch, is said to live in Akron, Ohio.

(3) Joseph Asch.

(4) Cathrine Asch, married to Abraham Beer. She had two children.

(a) Eliza Beer was married to David Deiter, of Petersville, Pa., (born May 4, 1814. died Apr. 11, 1892. Interred at Deiters Church.

172 The Lauffer History

(b) Cathrine Beer, married to David Roberts, of Daniersville, Pa.

(5) Mary M. Asch was married to Benjamin Deiter. To

them were born six children.

(a) Mrs. Beck, (b) Mrs. Bilheimer, (c) Mrs. Dilliard,

(d) Miss Mary Deitcr, (e) Rebecka Deiter, who married Steven

Easterday, of Cherryville, Pa. Seven children. Walter Easterday, Alonco Easterday, Robert Easterday, William Easterday,

Jane Easterday, Malisa Easterday, Mary Easterday, ( f ) Charles

Deiter, born Oct. 14, 1824, married to Diana Deiter (born Oct. 23, 1834). Siegfrieds, Pa. Seven children.

Eleanor Deiter, born Sept. 12, 1855, married to George A. Beck.

Melissa Deiter, born Oct. 2, 1857, died Oct. 2, 1862.

Mary C. Deiter, born July, 1858, died Oct. g, 1858.

Oswell H. Deiter, born Aug., 1859, died Oct. 16, 1859.

Lilly J. Deiter, born Oct. 30, 1863, married to John .H. Danner (born Aug. 22, 1859), Siegfrieds, Pa.

Emma M. Deiter, born Jan. 18, 1557, married to John D.

Frankley.

Cora M. Deiter, born Dec. 4, 7870, married to George R.

Barber.

Robert B. Deiter, born Oct. 11, 1822, died Jan. 29, 1893.

Mary M. Asch was married again to Christian Bilheimer, the

blacksmith, at Petersville, Pa. Four children. She was born

in 1800. Died 1881. Interred at Howertown Church. Christian Bilheimer was born May 28, 1802, died Apr. 28, 1871. Interred at Deiters, Church. To them were born three chi1dren:-

1. Jacob Bilheimer, born Dec. so, 1835, Died July 15, 1302. Interred at Howertown church. Married to Mary Mummey. Eight children.

(a) Ida W. Bilheimer, born Dec. 14, 1854.

(b) Henry T. Bilheimer, born June 24, 1866. Siegfrieds,

Pa.

The Lauffer History 173

Pa.

(d) Emma M. Bilheimer, born Aug. 9, 1873. Married to Mr. Savitz, of Siegfried, pa.

(e) Clinton A. Bilheimer, born Apr. 23, 1876, of Siegfried, Pa.

(f) Charles H. Bilheimer, born Aug. 31, 1838, of Siegfried, Pa.

(g) Oscar J. Bilheimer, born Apr. 22, 1880, of Siegfrieds, Pa.

(h) Priscilla Bilheimer, born Mar. 3, 1837, married to William H. Hauser, of Slatington, Pa. Eight children.

Henry O. Hauser, Wilson J. Hauser, Wesley M. Hauser, Calvin Hauser, Alice Hauser, married to Mr. Bernd, of Walnutport, Pa. ; Emma Hauser, to Mr. Andrews ; Laura Hauser to Mr . Weiss ; Carrie Hauser, to Mr. .smith.

II. Louisa Bilheimer, born Sept. 3, 1840, married to Lewis Best, of Allentown, Pa. Ten children. Sylvester Best, George Best, Henry Best, Stephen Best, Walter Best, Frank Best, Wil1iam Best, Lillie Best, married to Peters, Carrie Best, Jane Best , deceased.

III Viletta Bilheimer, born June 3, 1842, married to Henry Steckel. One child. Wilson Steckel, married to Mary Krack.

Catharine Laufer, daughter of Peter, the Revolutionary shoemaker, was married a second time in 1812, to Balthaser Heiney, with whom she lived twenty-nine years in married life. He was a farmer of Petersville, Pa., born Jan. 2, 1764; died Nov. 20, 1872, aged 78 years, 9 months, 12 days. Four children.

( I ) Julia Heiney, born Sept. 10, 1818. Married in 1837 to Ephriam Young by Rev. Mensing. He was born Dec. 14, 1818, died Nov. 30, 1904. Aged 86 years, 11 months, 6 days. He was a merchant in Petersville, Pa. Julian Heiney died Jan. 4, 1847. Two children.

Amandus Young, born Aug. 18, 1838, died Nov. 27, 1840.

174 The Lauffer History

Henrietta Young, born Jan. 4, 1847. Married to Harry Boyer, of Easton, Pa.

(2) Harriet Heiney. Married to George W. Heiney, of Petersville, Pa. by Rev. Becker. Interred at Stone Church.

(3) Rebecca Heiney, married to Reuben Fenstermaker, of

Catasauqua, Pa., by Rev. Becker. Five children.

(a) Amanda Fenstermaker married to Adviana Hess.

Went west.

(b) Rev. Thomas Fenstermaker, of Philadelphia.

(d) Katy Fenstermaker, of Catasauqua, Pa.

(e) Jane Fenstermaker, of Catasauqua, Pa.

(4) Christina Heiney, born Sept. I, 1813. Married in 1834 to Reuben Beichy, of Petersville, Pa., (born Dec. g, 1812);

by Rev. Mensing. She died Jan. 20, 1895. Reuben Beichy died

May 29, 1896. Both are interred at Deiters Church Eleven children.

(a) Isabella Beichy born Nov. 29, 1835, married to Peter

Schofer, of Slatington, Pa., son of George Schofer.

(b) Christina Beichy, born Dec. 25, 1837, married to Peter

Schofer, son of Devalt Schofer, of Klechnersville, Pa.

(d) Sarah L. Biechy, born Mar. 30, 1842, married to John Reph (deceased), of Petersville, Pa. She died Sept. 26, 1895.

(e) Martin M. Biechy, born Feb. 24, married to Louisa Fehnel, of Siegsfrieds, (sic) Pa.

(f) Gideon Biechy, born Aug. 22, 1846. Married to Anna

Eddinger, Petersville, Pa. He died Aug. 21, 1900.

(g) Amanda Biechy, born Sept. 6, 1848, married to William Eckert, merchant, of Weatherly, Pa.

(h) Harrison Biechy, born Sept. 20, 1850, married to Mary

Young, Slatington, Pa.

(i) Henrietta Biechy, born Sept. 17, 1852, married to Jacob Deiter, Siegfrieds, R.F.D. 3.

The Lauffer History 175

(j) William Biechy, born Feb. 27, 1855, of Cherryville, Pa.

Married to Susan George.

(k) Cyrus R. Biechy, born Mar. 25, 1858, Siegfrieds, R. F.D. 3. Married to Sarah Henry.

Susanna Laufer, daughter of Peter Laufer, the Revolutionary schoemaker (sic), was born Dec. 8th, 1782, and died in 1847, aged

65 years. She was married to Andreas Lilly, Petersville, Pa.

He died February 17th, 1830, aged 81 years, one month and one day. Five children.

I. William Lilly, born December 31, 1805. Died March 11th,

1871. Married to Mary Ramely by Rev. Mensing. She was born

June 26th, 1814. Died August 3, 1853. Ten children. ( I ) Lovina Lilly, born January 1st, 1845. Married to Geo. Santee (born

Dec. 20, 1822. Died Feb. 26th, 1881). To them were born

eleven children :

(a) Mary Santee, born Dec. 18th, 1847. Married to William Smoyer, of Seemsville, Pa.

(b) John Santee, born Sept. q t h , 1853. Married to Susan

Koch, of Bethlehem, Pa.

(d) George T. Santee, born March 13, 1857.

(e) Lucy A. Santee, born Feb. st, 1859. Married to Moses

Spengler (born April 1st, 1857), Seemsville, Pa.

( f ) Charles Santee. Infant.

(g) Amandas Santee, horn November 3, 1863, of Siegfreids,

Pa. Married to Mary Bartholomew.

(h) William H, Santee, born Oct. 6th, 1865. Married to

Alavesta Bartholomew.

(i) Robert T. Santee, born Oct. 6th, 1867. Married to

Amanda Helick. P. O., Petersville, Pa.

(j) Amanda L. Santee, born Nov. 5th, 1870. Married to Jacob N. Dankle, of Chapman's Quarries, Pa.

(k) Bracila Santee, burn Nov. 7th, 1874. Infant.

176 The Lauffer History

( 2 ) Samuel Lilly, son of William Lilly, the son of Susanna

Laufer, was married to Elizabeth Bush (born April 7th, 1833;

died Aug. 5, 1902) , Bethlehem, Pa.

(3) Charles Lilly, of Stroudsburg, Pa. Married to Sabina

Sieger.

(4) William Lilly, of Bethlehem, Pa., Married to Elizabeth Lacereth.

( 5 ) James Lilly, deceased.

(6) Amandas Lilly. Killed in the Civil War.

(7) Edwin Lilly, married to Mary Houser. P. O., Klecknersville, Pa.

(8) Tilman Lilly, married to Sarah Hankey.

(9) Eliza Lilly, married to Abraham Walk.

(10) Martha Lilly, married to George Siegfried.

II. Jesse Lilly, son of 'Susanna Laufer and Andreas Lilly.

III. Susanna Lilly, daughter of. Susanna Laufer and Andreas Lilly, was married to Richard V Miller, the tailor, of Allentown, Pa. Seven children.

(a) Greta Miller, married to Mr. Horn.

(b) Raisy Miller, married to James Yellis.

(d) Sarah Miller, married to Mr. Fluck.

(e) Harry Miller.

( f ) Charles Miller.

( g ) Andrew Miller. All residing in Allentown.

IV. Polly Lilly, married to Daniel Fehnel, of Klecknersville, Pa.

V. Elizabeth Lilly, married to Aaron Steckel. One child,

Susanna Steckel, married to Edwin Bartholomew.

VI. Catherine Lilly, Married to Samuel Smith. Three

children,

(a) William Smith.

(b) Susanna Smith, married to James Bilheimer.

The Lauffer History 177

Anna Maria Laufer, daughter of Peter Laufer, the Revolutionary shoemaker, was born Sept. 20, 1792, died March 18th, 1877. Was married to George Marsh by Rev. Mensing. He resided at Klecknersville, Pa., born May 3, 1795, died Sept. 8th, 1859. Six children.

I. Levina Marsh, horn Nov. 4, 1819, married to Charles

Bauer, of Klecknersville, Pa., died April 14, 1898. Interred at

Moorestown Church. Charles Bauer was born Dec. 8, 1818, died

Sept. 23, 1857. Four children.

(a) Jacob Bauer.

(b) Mary Bauer, born Nov. 9, 1845, married to Edwin Ballard, of Klecknersville, Pa.

L. Miller (born Oct. 3, 1850). P. O., Klecknersville, Pa.

(d) John Bauer, born Sept. 6th, 1851, married to Ella Reese. P. O., Moorestown, Pa.

II. Jacob Marsh, son of Anna Maria Laufer, daughter of

Peter Laufer, the Revolutionary shoemaker, was born in 1820.

He was married to Christina Frankenfield (born January 30,

1827; died Aug. 23, 1904). Both are interred at Moorestown

Church. Four children.

(a) Mary Marsh, married to James Spengler.

(b) Hannah Marsh, married to Peter Remmell.

(d) Elizabeth Marsh, deceased,

III. George Marsh, died May 20, 1896, aged 69 years,

four months and on day; Interred at Moorestown Church,

Married to Sarah Frankenfield, by whom he had three children.

(a) James Marsh.

(b) Howard Marsh.

IV. Mary Marsh, born August 8, 1827, married to Jacob

Bauer. Removed to Ohio or Indiana.

V. Elizabeth Marsh, born December 21, 1832, married to

Samuel Fehnel, of Moorestown, Pa., by Rev. Kuntz. Samuel Fehnel was born Sept. 3, 1832. Four children.

(a) Sarah J. Fehnel, born M. 14, 1856, married to, John, Kunkle, of Bath, Pa.

178 The Lauffer History

(b) Emma Fehnel, born May 13, 1859, married to Adam Deiler by Rev. J. Andrews. He was born Sept. 8, 1856. P. O., Petersville, Pa.

Adam Laufer was a tailor by occupation; he also worked a

small farm while living near Petersville, Northampton Co., Pa.

In the year 1828 he removed into Monroe Co., and purchased a

tract of timber land in the west end of the county, near Pleasant

Valley post office. While he worked at his trade, his sons did

some farming and lumbering; they used up a good deal of the

lumber in making flour and whiskey barrels, which were much

in demand at that time. Some years later, he and three of his

sons- Joseph, Samuel and Charles-bought some timber land

above the Pocono Mountains, where they operated a saw-mill for

some years. After selling this property, he and the younger

sons-Peter, Henry and Jonas-ran the farm, he working at his

trade until the death of his wife. About this time he sold the

home-stead to Dr. Heubner, and then made his home with Joseph,

his eldest son, until the time of his death.

Charles Laufer, son of Adam, son of Peter, the Revolutionary Shoemaker, born Jan. 10, 1818, died in Broadheadsville,

Monroe Co., Pa., Jan. 23, 1902, aged S4 years, and 13 days. He

was one of the pioneer settlers of the west end of Monroe

County,

By occupation he was a farmer. He was married in Jan. 1842, to Catharine Shupp, daughter of George and Susannah Shupp; about the same time he purchased sixty-six acres of land from Joseph Teel, near the post office at Broadheadsville, about twenty acres being cleared, and having on it a small one and a half story stone house, with one room below and one upstairs, and a small log barn. On this place he and his wife went to work, clearing several acres each year, until all was cleared. They put up new buildings, and improved the place in every respect. More acres were added, until it became one of the finest farms in the western end of the county. He worked the farm until within a few years of his wife's death, when he sold the homestead to his son, Joseph, and built himself a new home

The Lauffer History 179

in the village of Broadheadsville, in which he lived till the time

of his death.

In January, r865, he and his son-in-law, John Wagner,

bought the large gristmill near Broadheadsville, known as the

Hufsmith Mill, which they operated, doing business in the

name of Laufer & Wagner, doing a large business in flour, feed,

grain and lumber. April 1, 1873, he sold his interest in the mill property to his son, Nathan Laufer.

He was an ardent member of the Reformed church, which he

liberally supported during his entire life. His life was that of a noble Christian gentleman, and his death that of a faithful follower of Christ. Kind, gentle and generous, his counsel was sought by old and young; and his sterling Christian uprightness influenced many to the better course. He was a regular attendant at all services, and was an office bearer for many years.

His health was remarkable, until the fall preceding his death,

when he began to fail. There was no pain nor suffering, he just

grew weaker each day, until four days prior to his death.

In his home all were welcomed, and there he dispensed old-

fashioned hospita1ity. He was interred in the Broadheadsville

cemetery by the side of his beloved wife, who preceded him home

fifteen years. His surviving children were: Charles, Mrs. Annie

Wagner, Mrs. Jeremiah Shafer, of Allentown; George and,

Jacob, of Lehighton ; Nathan and Joseph, of Broadheadsville.

Henry Laufer, son of Adam, son of Peter, the Revolutionary

Shoemaker, died Dec. 31, 1905, aged 80 years, five months, one

day. He expired at the residence of his daughter, Mrs. John

Haney, of Saylorsburg, with whom he made his home during

the past eight years. He was a successful farmer in Monroe

county, and retired fifteen years ago. The day preceding his

death, while waiting his turn in a barber shop, he was stricken

with paralysis, and had to be removed home in a carriage. Mr.

Laufer was a consistent member of the Reformed church. Interment at Broadheadsville, Pa. He is survived by a son and three daughters : Stewart Laufer of Bath ; Mrs. Haney and Miss Emma Laufer, of Saylorsburg, and Mrs. Wolfe, wife of Dr. Horace Wolf, of Providence, R. I.

180 The Lauffer History

Rev. Calvin W. Laufer, the recent pastor ,of the Steinway

Reformed Church, Steinway, L. I., and at present pastor of the

First Presbyterian Church, West Hoboken, N. J., is a son of

Nathan Laufer, of Broadheadsville, Pa. born April 6, 1876. He

had a strenuous time preparing himself for the ministry, and enthusiasm and marked industry have characterized his labors since.

"At the age of seventeen he had prepared himself to teach.

The law of Pennsylvania, however, precluded his teaching at that

age. Nevertheless, through the 'age blindness' of the local Board

of Education, he was appointed a public school teacher.

"His salary was $23 per month. The school in which he

taught was four and a half miles from his home. That distance

he walked twice a day, even during the cold winters of 1901 and

1902. Meanwhile his evenings were devoted to Latin and Greek, under the direction of his pastor, Rev. S. F. Laury, and at the end of the first winter he bad mastered three books of Caesar and two books of Xenaphon's "Anabasis." Continuing to teach for another winter and devoting his spare-time to study, he graduated from the Fairview Academy at Broadheadsville in the spring of 1903, and received a gold medal for scholarship.

"In the fall of 1893 he entered college with only $93 in his

purse, and in his heart a profound faith in God-- determined to

win at any price. While in college he played the organ in one of

the local churches, gave instruction on the piano to as many as

eighteen pupils a week, conducted a choral class, and occasionally

wrote verses for the local papers. He graduated from Franklin

and Marshall College, Lancaster, Pa., in 1897, winning the senior prize debate and $50 in gold.

“In September, 1897, he entered Union Theological Seminary, and graduated from it in 1900. During his course there ,he connected himself, for financia1 reasons, with Rev, Dr. Schauffler in missionary work in the slums, and he became associated with the Rev. Dr. A. H. McKinny, now of Newark, but then pastor of Olivet Church, New York City.

The membership tripled during the five years of his pastorate at Steinway; a membership of only 85 when he took charge, and the Sunday School attendance grew from 275 to 500.