| Notes |
- This is the David Shirtz who arrived on the same immigrant ship with the Schrocks (Jerrards) and Salzmans Spring 1831. He returned briefly to Bourscheid in 1836, then back to Illinois in 1837.
————————
The “Belsley-Sauder Genealogy” describes how David returned to Europe in 1835-36, apparently to collect inheritances due his three daughters Magdalena, Catherine, and Barbara from the estate of first wife Catherine Belsley. A few location names have been corrected for the sake of clarity in this letter he wrote home to second wife Anne Rocher:
“A heartily wished friendly greeting to you, my dear wife, and also to my children from me, David Schertz; from my brothers, and sisters-in-law, my sister, and all good friends and acquaintances; and wish the best for body and soul, what we dying mortals have to wish to one another. Remember me in your prayers, when you come before the Lord, which I, also, my dear wife and children, intend to do, as much as the dear Lord will come to our aid in our weakness.
“Further to relate that I, praise God, arrived in France, and really, the 17th of February, 1836 slept at Neuhof at my brother's, but full of solicitude how you are getting along in my absence, but place my trust in God that he will keep you safe in his care. Further, my dear wife, I will let you know that my trip to France was very pleasant. Firstly, the ocean voyage was bad. For several days we were in danger and peril of our lives; the weather was so unsettled and it stormed so hard that the wind drove us to England. Then with the omnipotence and might of God, we had good weather again. I must tell you the truth that it took me three months and eight days on my journey until I reached Blâmont.
“There I went immediately and visited Engel's wife, who, thank God, was hearty and well, together with the baby of Engel's daughter. I, though, felt sickly and stayed there three days until my tiredness felt a little better and I was rested a little. Then I rode to Sarrebourg and on the 15th of February I arrived at Lux [a local family], where I stayed until the next day, when I went with my brother Christian to Neuhof, to my brothers and sisters-in-law who received me with much joyful welcome.
“I also transacted my business immediately, especially I went to Mr. Loll who received me most courteously and waited on me fine. My dear wife, believe me, if anybody would give me 4,000 francs to make the trip again after I have reached home, I would politely thank them [and decline]. For this trip will be long remembered.
“Now, don't think I am sick, just tired and weak on account of the cold I got here and there on the trip, some from riding, and some from other sources that a traveler often meets.
“Otherwise, I am well and hope to leave France the 15th or 20th of March if it can be, with the help of God. Now, do not worry about me, for I will try without so much delay soon again to be with you, my dear wife and children.
...All send thousands of greetings, and I altogether commit you to the protection of the Most Highest, who will take us and you in his own kingdom, which is prepared for all the righteous, after our end. Now, my dear wife, also my children, keep on praying to God that we will be able to meet each other hearty and well and embrace each other. I am your faithful husband and you are my faithful wife till death do us part. Adieu, farewell. This letter I wrote at Mouckenhoff, or had written by Karl, who used to teach my children at Schneckenbusch.” David Schertz [6]
|
1786 - 1860 (74 years)
[4] 
