Johann Jacob Klahr, born ca. 1705 in Altersweil or Allersweil, Switzerland, immigrated to America in 1752, and settled in Berks County, Pennsylvania. Descendants have lived in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and other states.
"This book was conceived as an attempt to bring together from as many English sources as survive a comprehensive account of emigration to the New World from its beginnings to 1660"--Introduction.
When originally published in 1933, this classic work listed for the first time the names of the early Palatines of New York State, the original settlers of the Mohawk Valley, known as the "Gateway to the West." The estimated 20,000 names are classified, combined, and otherwise arranged to enable the researcher to identify Palatine immigrants in relation to specific categories of records. Among the important lists of names are the following: (1) The Kocherthal records of baptisms, marriages, and deaths, 1708-1719; (2) Palatine heads of families, from Gov. Hunter's Ration Lists, 1710-1714; (3) Lists of Palatines in 1709 (the four London lists of emigrants from Germany, most of whom emigrated to America); (4) Palatines remaining and newly arrived in New York, from the colonial census of 1710; (5) Names of Palatine children apprenticed by Gov. Hunter, 1710-1714; and (6) Various lists of Palatines in the colonial militia of New York.
The genealogist trying to locate families, the surveyor or attorney researching old deeds, or the historian seeking data on land settlement will find Pennsylvania Land Records an indispensable aid. The land records of Pennsylvania are among the most complete in the nation, beginning in the 1680s. Pennsylvania Land Records not only catalogs, cross-references, and tells how to use the countless documents in the archive, but also takes readers through a concise history of settlement in the state. The guide explains how to use the many types of records, such as rent-rolls, ledgers of the receiver general's office, mortgage certificates, proof of settlement statements, and reports of the sale of town lots. In addition, the volume includes: cross-references to microfilm copies; maps of settlement; illustrations of typical documents; a glossary of technical terms; and numerous bibliographies on related topics.
Hubertis M. Cummings vividly relates the tale of the sturdy and indomitable Scotch-Irish settlers in Pennsylvania. Hardened from their ancient battles against tyranny and injustice in their native "bonnie Scotland," they struggled to establish a new home in America along and beyond the Susquehanna River. Their passionate love of freedom and will to survive helped them make a life for themselves in a hostile frontier. Their deep faith and spirit would thrive in this region, as they helped to forge the identity and destiny a young nation.
The emigrants from the Langenselbold area settled mainly in Berks County, Pennsylvania. A large group settled in Lower Heidelberg Township. Also includes emigrants who went to New York in 1710.