Harry Arnold Jansen

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/202231626
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-189431
• Residence: 1908, 158 Queen St. N., Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1911, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian

Notes:

HARRY A. JANSEN

A wellknown young Kilchener business man, Harry A. Jansen, died at his home, 158 Queen Street North, early this morning of a heart attack He was 35 years of age.

Mr Jansen has been associated with his father, Arnold Jansen, In the Jansen Optical Company for the past 12 years. He was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church and was the church treasurer. He was also active in the young people's work of the church.

Surviving are his father, his wife. nee Florence G Banner, and an aunt, Miss Louise Jansen of Kitchener. His mother, who before her marriage was Ella Devitt, died ten years ago.

The funeral will be held Thursday afternoon with private service at the residence at 2 o'clock followed by public service at St. Paul's Church at 2 30. Entombment will take place at Woodland Mausoleum Rov Albert Orzen, pastor of St Paul's Church, will conduct the services. The remains will rest at the Ratz-Bechtel Funeral Home until 9 o'clock Thursday morning when removal will be made to the residence.

Kitchener Daily Record Feb 2 1943 pg 11

Harry married Florence Gertrude Banner 24 Jun 1942, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Florence was born 5 Nov 1910, Brantford, Brant Co., Ontario, Canada; died 19 Mar 1954, Brantford, Brant Co., Ontario, Canada; was buried , Farringdon Burial Ground, Brantford, Brant Co., Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

1. Arlene Jansen

Other Events:

• Business: 158 Queen St. N., Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Jansen Optical Company
• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/202231981
• Interesting: optometrist, business
• Occupation: Optometrist
• Residence: 158 Queen St. N., Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-115581
• Occupation: 1891, Elmira, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Watchmaker
• Residence: 1891, Elmira, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Lutheran
• Occupation: 1901, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Clerk
• Residence: 1908, 158 Queen St. N., Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Occupation: 1911, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Watchmaker, Store
• Residence: 1911, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian

Notes:

Mr. A. K. Jansen was born in Elmira in 1868. He was education in the Elmira public school and received a third class teachers' certificate under Mr. David Bean. He became apprentice to the watchmaking trade in Klinck's Jewelry Store, in 1884, where he remained 7 years, after which time he worked at his trade in Kingston, Hamilton, Ottawa and Toronto. In 1892, he taught school and in 1893 became a partner in the Signet printing office from which he withdrew a year later. In 1895 he entered upon his studies at the Canadian Horological Institute where he made a watch and assisted in the teaching of the students there. In 1898 he commenced business in Berlin, in partnership with his brother Carl under the firm name of Jansen Bros. and its now becoming well established there.

Enterprising Elmira Souvenir, An historical, descriptive, and illustrated Book of the Village of Elmira, Waterloo County, Ontario, Canada, published by George Klinck, 1903.

__________


Arnold Jansen, Optometrist Here 50 Years, Dies

Kitchener's senior optometrist, Arnold Jansen, 81, died last night at his home, 158 Queen St. North. after a briet illness. Mr. Jansen was well-known over a wide area. He was proprietor of the Jansen Optical Co. for half a century. He started his business in this city about 1899.

Hia son, the late Harry Jansen, joined him in the business about 10 years ago after completing his professional studies but predeceased him six years ago.

Pioneered in Optometry

He pioneered the field of optometry in this district. He was the first to open business in Kitchener to assist people to correct vision.

At that time the jewelry and hardware stores sold "specs" to those with failing eyesight. He opened his shop during a depression that 12 vacant stores on King St. Mr. Jansen had his choice of them at a rental of $25 a month.

Selling his business three years ago, he could not relinquish his interest in the profession and returned to continue service to many of his old customers.

Members of the Optometrists Association recognized half century of service in late March at a dinner in his honor.

Born in Elmira

Born in Elmira, March 20, 1868 Mr. Jansen was the son late Mr. and Mrs. Peter Jansen. He completed his early, education in Elmira. He married Ella Devitt, who predeceased him 17 years ago.

Mr. Jansen was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church.

Surviving are two brothers, Carl of Galt, Henry, Henry View, N.Y, and one grandson.

Two sisters predeceased him Mrs. Caroline Schierholtz, formerly of Elmira, and Louise Jansen who died April 21 this year. One brother, Albert, also pre-deceased him.

Funeral on Friday

The funeral will be held Friday at 2:30 pm at St. Paul's Lutheran Church. The pastor, Rev. A. Eissfeldt, will conduct the services.

The body is resting at the Ratz-Bechtel Funeral Home until Friday noon when removal will be made to the church.

Entombment will be made Woodland Mausoleum

The Kitchener-Waterloo Record Thu, May 12, 1949 Page 3

Arnold — Martha Ella Devitt. Martha (daughter of Isaac Devitt and Mary Ann Quickfall) was born 2 Nov 1867, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 24 Sep 1932, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Woodland Cem., Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/202232079
• Name: Ella Devitt
• Name: Martha Ella Jansen
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-189430
• Residence: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Protestant
• Residence: 1908, 158 Queen St. N., Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1911, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian
• Residence: 1932, 158 Queen St. N., Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

M. ELLA JANSEN

Following a stroke sustained five months ago, death today claimed M. Ella Jansen, wife of Arnold Jansen, at her home, 158 Queen street north. Deceased was in her 65^th year, being born at Floradale on November 2, 1867, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Devitt, both of whom have predeceased her. She was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran church. Apart from her husband, Arnold Jansen, she is survived by one son, Harry, at home, and one brother Irvine Devitt, of Burlington. The funeral will be held Monday afternoon at two o'clock with private services at the house, followed by public service at St. Paul's Lutheran church, at 2.30 o'clock. Interment will be made in the Woodland cemetery. Rev. A. Orsen is to officiate.

Kitchener Daily Record 24 Sep 1932 pg 13

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/90156770
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-26037
• Immigration: 1847, , Ontario, Canada
• Immigration: 1847, , Ontario, Canada
• Naturalization: 1862
• Residence: 1864, Elmira, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Occupation: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Ploughmaker
• Occupation: 1881, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Plough Maker
• Business: 1886, 19 Church St. E., Elmira, Ontario
• Occupation: 1891, Elmira, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Gentleman
• Residence: 1891, Elmira, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Lutheran
• Retired: 1901
• Residence: 1907, 30 Church St. E., Elmira, Ontario

Notes:

One of the oldest and most respected Citizens of Elmira, died at his home here, last Friday morning, viz. Mr. Peter Jansen, who was well known throughout this district. The following description of his career is copied from the Elmira Advertiser, whose editor is a son-in-law of the deceased.

Deceased was born in Prussia in 1840 and came to this country with his parents when seven years old. In his younger days he worked among the farmers in the neighborhood of Hespeler then learned the trade of waggonmaker in Preston, coming to Elmira in the year 1863. Here he started making the woodwork of plows in H. Dunke's shop (now J. B. Lein-s.) Later he built a shop of his own and later the house in which he died.

He was married in 1864 to Catherine Klinck, and to whom were born six children. One, son, Albert, died about a year ago, and the other children are all living. They are: Caroline (Mrs. C. W. Schierholtz) Elmira, Arnold, Berlin; Carl, Tilsonburg, Henry of Buffalo, and Louisa at home. Deceased took a great interest in school matters and was for a number of years a member of the Elmira Public school board He aimed at giving his children a good education, not having himself had the best of opportunities in his younger days

In politics, Mr. Jansen was a staunch but not bigoted. Liberal; in religion he was a consistent member of St. Paul's Lutheran congregation. In his business dealings with his fellow men he tried to give every man his due, not seeking to gain any undue advantage. To the family he was a kind and provident father whose absence from the fireside will be deeply mourned.

The cause of his death was dilation of the heart, for which he was receiving doctor's treatment for the last seven weeks, though the trouble had probably been coming on gradually for a much longer time.

Deceased was laid to his last resting place in Elmira Union Cemetery on Monday afternoon the funeral being largely attended by relatives, friends and acquaintances from near and far.

_____________


Died: At Elmira, on Friday, the Ninth day of August, Nineteen Hundred and Seven, Peter Jansen Aged Sixty-seven Years, Five Months and Seventeen Days. The Funeral Will take place from his late residence on Church Street, on Monday afternoon, the Twelfth day of August, at Two o'clock, to the Elmira Union Cemetery for interment. Friends and acquaintances will please accept this intimation.

Funeral Card

_____________

DEATH OF PETER JANSEN

Father of Mr. Arnoid Jansen of Berlin Passes Away at Elmira.

A RESPECTED RESIDENT

A wide circle of Iriends will learn with regret of the death of Peter Jansen, of Elmira, father of Mr. Arnold Jansen, Berlin, which occurred at his home at that place early on Friday morning, the cause of death being dilatation of the heart for which he had been receiving treatment for the past seven weeks. The late Mr. Jansen was born in Prussia in 1840, coming to this country with his parents when seven years old. He learned the trade of wagon maker in Preston, removing to Elmira in 1863 where he was employed in the shop of Mr. Henry Dunke, now owned by Mr. J. B. Leis, He later erected a shop of his own. Deceased was one of the town's most respected residents and took a deep interest in school matters, being for a number of years a member of the Elmira Public School Board. in politics he was a stausch Liberal and was also a consistent member of St. Paul's Lutheran congregation. He was married in 1864 to Cathrine Klinck and to them were born six children, five of whom survive ie, Caroline (Mrs. C.W.Schierholts) Elmira, Arnold, of Berlin, Carl, of Tilsonburg Henry, of Bullalo, and Louisa at home. The funeral will be held on Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock: Interment will take place in the Elmira Union cemetery

The Daily Telegraph 10 Aug 1907, Sat Page 1

Business:
Founded in 1886 by Messrs. P. Jansen of Elmira and Abs. Merner of Waterloo to manufacture and repair agricultural machinery. About 1900 Waterloo Manufacturing Company acquired the business then in 1902 the foundry was purchased by a joint stock company and became known as the Elmira Agricultural Works Company, Limited.

Peter married Katherine Klinck 13 Dec 1864, Elmira, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Katherine (daughter of Nicholas Klinck and Maria Philippina "Philppina" "Philipine" Christman) was born 25 Jun 1841, , Germany; died 18 Apr 1925, Elmira, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Elmira Union Cemetery, Elmira, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/90156788
• Name: Catherine Klinck
• Name: Katherine Jansen
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-26038
• Residence: 1864, Elmira, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Lutheran
• Immigration: 1887, , Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1891, Elmira, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Lutheran

Notes:

AGED RESIDENT CALLED HENCE

LONG AND ACTIVE LIFE COMES TO A CLOSE

Another one of the old residents. of Elmira passed away last Saturday morning in the person of Catharine Klinck, widow of the late Peter Jansen who predeceased her 18 years ago. Mrs. Jansen was born in Bavaria on the Rhine, Germany, on June 25th, 1841, At the age of sixteen. she came to Elmira with other members of the family, namely her father (the late Nicholas Klinck) her sister Philippina (the late Mrs. Louis Weber) with her husband and three children, her sister Caroline (later Mrs. Blatz now deceased) and her sister Elizabeth (later married to Henry Dunke) the only member of the family still living. Her two brothers, Adam and Charles, had come to Canada a year or so previously. All the members family settled in EImira or of the vicinity and few of the children ....have wandered far from the old town. In 1865 the deceased was married to Peter Jansen. Their union was blessed with six children, one son Albert, died 19 years ago. The survivors are: Caroline (Mrs. C. W. Schferholtz), Elmira; Arnold of Kitchener: Charles of Galt; Henry of Buffalo, N.Y.; Louise of Kitchener. Eleven grandchildren also survive.

The deceased was both mentally and prysically[sic], very active and retained a clear mind to the end. She was a loving mother and a kind and helpful neighbor. She was a faithful member of St. Paul's Lutheran church and had been an active member of its Ladies Ald since that society was founded.

The funeral was held on Monday afternoon and was attended by a large circle of relatives and friends among them being some from Galt, Kitchener, Waterloo, Heidelberg, Hawkesville. The pallbearers were: Fred Siegner, Casper Heimbecher, George Weismiller, J. H. Ruppel, M. Hemmerich, Henry G. Ruppel.

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/92924671
• Eby ID Number: 00030-2334
• Occupation: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Laborer
• Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer - Postmaster
• Residence: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Protestant
• Occupation: 1881, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Occupation: 1891, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1891, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Methodist
• Residence: 1901, Nelson Twp., Halton Co., Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Isaac Devitt, "was born January 22nd, 1837. He is a farmer by occupation and resides at Floradale, Woolwich Township, Waterloo County. He is married to Mary Ann Quickfall. They have had a family of five children, namely:... Ella, married to George Klink of Elmira."

Eby, Ezra E. (1895). A biographical history of Waterloo township and other townships of the county: being a history of the early settlers and their descendants, mostly all of Pennsylvania Dutch origin: as also much other unpublished historical information chiefly of a local character. Berlin [Kitchener, Ont.]: [s.n.].

_____________________

THE OLD SCHOOLHOUSE

An interesting meeting took place the Saturday before last in the old log cabin in Waterloo Park.

This house was, of course, the first schoolhouse in this area and stood originally on the school-house square at the corner of King and Church Streets in Waterloo. It was built in 1820 and served its purpose until 1842, when it was torn down and a 1-storey stone house was constructed on the site. The dismantled log house was erected again in Greenbush and served as a residence for a long time for the coloured man, Mr. Carroll and his family. In the course of this year, the Waterloo Park Commissioners purchased the house, moved it to their park and furnished it again as it was when it was a school-house.

At this gathering, in addition to many other ladies and gentlemen, the following (male and female) former pupils attended, took their places on the benches, and were called to order by the 82-year-old teacher, Benjamin Burkholder, who held the scepter, or rather, the switch, from 1831 to 1842 in the old log-house: Joel Guth, 80 years old; Abraham Scherk, Blair, 79; Jakob Bricker, Waterloo, 77; Sarah Burkholder, nee Erb, Bridgeport, 75; Amos Weber, Berlin, 73; John C, Bricker, Hawksville, 71; Maria Erb, nee Quickfall, Norwich 69; David B. Eby, Waterloo, 69; Wendel Baumann, Woolwich, 68; Henry Stauffer, Erbsville, 67; Simon Beatty, Elmira, 67; Jakob Ratz, New Hamburg, 67; Israel Baumann, Berlin, 65; George Elbert, Moorefield, 63; George H. Baumann, Elmira, 63; John Devitt, Waterloo, 62; Richard Quickfall, Bridgeport, 62; Isaak Hoffmann, Waterloo, 61; Robert Barkwell, Peel, 60; Diana McMahon, nee Dekay, Berlin, 60; Thomas Quickfall, Floradale, 60; Benjamin Devitt, Waterloo, 60; Isaak Devitt, Floradale, 58; John Longmann, Peel, 57. In addition, to these, the teacher read the names of 25 pupils from the roll; they were, however, absent.

Mr. Burkholder gave an interesting talk about the history of the old school-house, and after him, Rev. J.A. MacLachlan, Rev. J. McNair, Mr. J.E. Baumann, M.P., and Mr. Jakob Ratz spoke about the old days which brought many things out of the past to mind again. School was, as a rule, only in session in winter and the costs were borne by the parents of the children. There were few subjects taught, namely: Reading, Writing and Sums. The children heard little about language, and geography; no child had more than 2 or 3 books. The predominant language was German. The pupils learned to read and write English, but didn't understand a word of it. Among the teachers in the old school-house from 1820-1842, with the exception of Mr. Burkholder, were the following whose names are still recognized: Jephtha DeKay, Joseph Guth, John Herringer, Peter Otto, John Dobbin, Elias Eby, Robert Barber, & Joseph Eby.

After those present, on hearing the various speeches felt themselves transported back to the past, the school was closed at four o'clock and the pupils were gathered together in front of the school and photographed as a group. On their return into the school, they found it had been transformed into a dining room with heavily-laden tables, which the old-timers thoroughly enjoyed. After everyone had chatted cordially for a while longer, the gathering broke up. The company will not meet again in complete numbers, nor in such a way.

Berliner Journal September 26, 1895 Page 4 Column 4

_________

Passed Away Near Burlington This Morning.--Well Known in This County.

The sad intelligence of the death of Mr. Isaac Devitt, brother of Mr. Menno and Mr. Benj. Devitt of this town was received this morning. Deceased on Wednesday last suffered a paralytic stroke since which time he has been in a critical condition, never regaining consciousness, passing away at 10 o'clock this morning.

The late Mr. Devitt was born on Jan. 22, 1837, and followed the occupaison of a farmer, first residing at Floradale where is owned a farm and also held the position of postmaster until his removal to Freeman about twelve years ago where he purchased a line large farm and had since resided The day previous to being taken ill he had disposed of his farm and intended and moving to Waterloo.

He was well known and highly respected in this county.

A widow and three children survive viz, Mary. (Mrs Klinck) Elmira, Ella (Mrs A Jansen) Berlin, and Irvine, at home. Another son Milton died last spring. Four brothers and two sisters and his aged mother, Mrs Barnabas Devitt also survive

The Daily Telegraph 16 Sep 1907, Mon Page 4

Isaac married Mary Ann Quickfall 18 Mar 1862, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Mary (daughter of Thomas Quickfall and Hannah Martinson) was born 17 Jan 1838, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was christened 23 Oct 1842, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 18 Jan 1912, Nelson Twp., Halton Co., Ontario, Canada; was buried , Elmira Union Cemetery, Elmira, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/92924757
• Name: Mary Ann Devitt
• Eby ID Number: 00030-2334.1
• Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Wesley Methodist
• Residence: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Protestant
• Residence: 1891, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Methodist

Other Events:

• Name: Mathias Johnsen
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-27196
• Occupation: 1851, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; labourer
• Occupation: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Labourer
• Residence: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Roman Catholic
• Residence: 1881, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Mathias married Anna Catherine "Catherine" Zingsheim 1839. Anna was born 13 Feb 1813, Wiskirchen, Rhinish, Prussia, Germany; died 20 Feb 1906, Elmira, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Saint Teresa's Roman Catholic Cemetery, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/263016650
• Name: Anna Catherine "Catherine" Jansen
• Name: Catherine Zingsheim
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-27197
• Residence: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; RC
• Residence: 1881, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1891, Elmira, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Roman Catholic

Notes:

Died In Elmira, February 20th, 1906, Catherine Jansen, Relict of the late Matthias Jansen aged 93 years and 7 days. The Funeral will take place from the residence of Mr. Peter Jansen on Thursday, Feb. 22, at 9.30 a.m. at the house. Service in Catholic Church, interment in R.C. Cemetery, north of Elmira. Friends and acquaintances will please accept this intimation.

Funeral Card

_____________

Jansen.\emdash At Elmira, Feb. 13th, Mrs. Catharine Jansen; relict of the late Matthias Jansen, aged 93 years and 7 days. |

The Chronicle Telegraph, 1 Mar 1906, p. 3

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/90156680
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-26647
• Occupation: 1861, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Carpenter
• Residence: 1861, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Lutheran
• Occupation: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Carpenter
• Residence: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Lutheran

Nicholas — Maria Philippina "Philppina" "Philipine" Christman. Maria was born 11 Jan 1803, , Bavaria, Germany; died Bef 1861. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/90156706
• Name: Maria Philippina "Philppina" "Philipine" Klinck
• Name: Philipine Christman
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-26630

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/55219191
• Historic Building: 38 Bridge St. W., Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Occupation: Bridgeport (Kitchener), Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; miller
• Eby ID Number: 00030-2322
• Historic Building: Abt 1812, 172 King St. S., Waterloo, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Erb Kumpf House
• Land: Bef 1831, Waterloo Township - German Company Tract Lot 027W, Waterloo County, Ontario
• Historic Building: 1849, 36 Young St. W., Waterloo, Ontario; Dr. Voelker House
• Residence: 1849, 36 Young St. W., Waterloo, Ontario
• Occupation: 1852, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; farmer
• Elected Office: 1858, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; councillor - Waterloo Township
• Occupation: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1881, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer

Notes:

Barnabus Devitt, "the fourth son of his father, Dennis Devitt, was born in New Jersey, U.S., March 25th, 1807. He came to Canada with his parents in 1817 and settled on the old "Daniel C. Snyder Farm" west of the town of Waterloo. After the decease of his mother he was adopted by old Abraham Erb who raised him. He was only 11 years of age when he came to Erb's. On May 1st 1831, he was married to Magdalena Shoemaker who was born November 20th, 1811. In 1829 she came to Canada with her mother and family. Mr. and Mrs. Devitt resided in the town of Waterloo until 1851 when they moved to Bridgeport where he and Elias Eby entered into partnership in the milling business. After being in business for some years, he sold his interest to the late Jacob B. Eby and purchased the beautiful farm now in possession of Tilman Shantz. Here he resided until a few years previous to his death when he again moved to the town of Waterloo to spend the close of his life. He died January 20th, 1891. They had a family of twelve children" Barnabas Devitt, "(Vol. I, No. 2322) came to Canada in 1812 and came to Waterloo in 1815."


Eby, Ezra E. (1895). A biographical history of Waterloo township and other townships of the county: being a history of the early settlers and their descendants, mostly all of Pennsylvania Dutch origin: as also much other unpublished historical information chiefly of a local character. Berlin [Kitchener, Ont.]: [s.n.].

___________________

Devitt, Barnabus, retired farmer. Is a native of New Jersey. Born, 1807. Moved to this county in 1815.

Illustrated Atlas of the County of Waterloo, H. Parsel & Co., Toronto - 1881 (Waterloo entries)

_____________________

The Silver Thread Lofts on Devitt Avenue is a different addition to the ever growing list of condo projects in this city. It is only three storeys high with underground parking for 15 units. It is nestled into the quiet, tree-shaded environs at 15 Devitt Ave. S. in the historic Mary-Allen Neighbourhood....The development is called The Silver Thread Lofts. This area of the city was once owned by Barnabus Devitt, who had a radish farm on the site. Later, the Silver Thread Kraut Company made sauerkraut here...

Waterloo Region Record 14 Oct 2011

Historic Building:
Built in 1840 by Jacob S. Shoemaker across from the mill he constructed in 1830. In 1969 the house with stone foundation and handmade brick walls was listed in fair to poor condition. The roof was framed with mortise and tenon joining. The house was a combination of Georgian proportions and classical decorations. The large dormers were reminiscent of early buildings in Pennsylvania. In 1850 the house was sold to Elias Eby together with the mill complex. The house was been renovated a number of times. The porch was removed and the house converted into a tri-plex by 1969. Barnabus Devitt was also a propietor with Elias Eby.<sup>1a

1a</sup>Bridgeport Mill, a non-dated (probably 1969) type written manuscript located at Doon Heritage Crossroads 2009

Historic Building:
The original portion of the Erb-Kumpf House was built around 1812 by Abraham Erb, the founder of Waterloo, making it one of Waterloo's oldest homes. It was a three-bay structure facing a mill situated near the south-west corner of King and Erb Streets.
Abraham Erb came from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, in 1806 and settled on Lots 14 and 15 of the German Company Tract, land which now comprises the central business district of Waterloo. He established a sawmill on Beaver (Laurel) Creek in 1808 and a grist mill in 1816. In 1828, he sold his mills and a considerable quantity of land to Jacob C. Snider.
Magdalene Erb sold the home to Barnabas Devitt, her adopted son, in 1835. His son Benjamin served as Mayor of Waterloo from 1881 to 1883.
An addition to the house was probably built by Devitt in 1849. A slight hump in the roof on the north side indicates the location at which it joins the original structure. The application of a vertical board and clapboard which does not align is further evidence that it was added at a later date. The second addition, probably built by Hoffman around 1855, included the two-storey verandah at the front.

Elias Snider acquired the home and later sold it to Christian Kumpf in 1869. Kumpf was a newspaper owner, Mayor of Waterloo from 1879-1880, as well as Postmaster for 42 years. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Dominion Life Assurance Company in 1889. His son Ford, who became affectionately known as "Mr. Waterloo", was born in the home in 1877 and assumed ownership in 1899. One of the community's most public-spirited citizens, he served as Treasurer of Waterloo and Clerk/Manager of the Water and Light Commission. He was President of the Waterloo Red Cross Society and The Dominion Life Assurance Company.
At present, the house demonstrates a mixture of architectural styles. Among its Georgian characteristics is the six-over-six window pane arrangement. The facade, with its two wings, treillage, Gothic barge board and Doric columns, reflects the Regency influence.
In 1979, the home was sold to a law firm which has maintained the integrity of the exterior. A third addition in keeping with the style of the building has since been constructed.<sup>1a

1a</sup>Designated Properties www. waterloo.ca

Historic Building:
Constructed by Barnabus Devitt in 1849 and sold to Elias Snider in 1851.

Barnabas married Magdalena Shoemaker 1 May 1831, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Magdalena (daughter of Johannes "John" Schumacher and Maria "Mary" Shantz) was born 20 Nov 1811, Frederick Twp., Montgomery Co., Pennsylvania; died 12 Nov 1907, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , First Mennonite Cemetery, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/55219293
• Name: Magdalena Devitt
• Eby ID Number: 00112-7023
• Immigration: 1829, , Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1891, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Evangelical

Notes:

Magdalena Shoemaker, "was born November 20th, 1811. In 1829 she came to Canada with her mother and family. On May 1st, 1831, she was married to Barnabas Devitt who was born March 25th, 1807, and died January 20th, 1891."

Eby, Ezra E. (1895). A biographical history of Waterloo township and other townships of the county: being a history of the early settlers and their descendants, mostly all of Pennsylvania Dutch origin: as also much other unpublished historical information chiefly of a local character. Berlin [Kitchener, Ont.]: [s.n.].

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In Memoriam Died. At Waterloo, Tuesday Nov. 12th, 1907, Mrs. Barnabas Devitt, Aged 95 years, 11 months and 22 days. The Funeral Will take place from the residence of Mr. Benjamin Devitt, at 1.30 o'clock, Friday afternoon, Nov. 15th, to Emanuel Evangelical Church, Waterloo, for service, thence to the East End Mennonite Cemetery, Berlin, for interment. Friends and acquaintances will please accept this intimation.

Funeral Card

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MRS. BARNABAS DEVITT PASSED AWAY ON TUESDAY

Ninety-Six Years of Age and Waterloo's Oldest Resident. Generally Respected and Loved.

The death of one of Waterloo's most estimable in the person of Mrs. Barnabus Devitt, removes one of the early pioneers who has witnessed the growth of the town from a small struggling hamlet of a few houses nestling in the midst of the woods to the Waterloo of today. Although in her 96th year the aged lady enjoyed splendid health up to a week ago Saturday, attending service at the Mennonite church on Thanksgiving Day. However, she fortunately contracted pleurisy and had been confined to her bed since that time. The malady terminated fatally, and she passed peacefully away at 6.30 A. M. Tuesday at the ripe old age of 95 years, 11 months and 22 days.

Mrs. Devitt, whose maiden name was Magdalena Shoemaker, was a member of a long-lived and highly respected family and was the daughter of the late John Shoemaker, She was born in Pennsylvania, U.S. on Nov 20th, 1811, and would have celebrated her 96th birthday on the 20th of this month. She came to Waterloo in the year 1829 with her mother and family, traversing the distance in one of the old-fashioned Wagons used in those times. Two years later she was married to the late Barnabas Devitt and they resided for a time in Waterloo, afterwards removing to Bridgeport, where her husband purchased the mill at that place. It was later disposed and the family again moved to this place where she has almost continuously resided.

As one of the early pioneers Mrs. Devitt saw the transition of this sparsely settled community to the present prosperous town of Waterloo and often recounted experiences of early days conditions which
prevailed in those primitive times. On the journey to the new home in this county from Pennsylvania, the distance was made with horse and wagon, the mother of Mrs. Devitt travelling on horseback. They had several cows with them which supplied milk and butter was churned right on the wagon as they went along. The route lay over mountains, across rivers, through swamps and over roads almost impassable and in many places did not exist at all.

The passage over the Niagara River was made in a scow as there was no bridge across at that time. When the family arrived here Waterloo to consisted of a mill store, and a few houses, and the surrounding vicinity was all woodland. Mr. and Mrs. Barnabus Devitt for a goodly number of years resided on the site where the present residence of Mrs. C Kumpf now stands where Mr. Devitt had over 100 acres of farm land. After his retirement they removed to the old Barnabas Devitt property, now owned by Mr. Herold

Mr. Devitt died in 1891 and Mrs. Devitt has of late years made her home with her son, Mr. Benjamin Devitt.

The late Mrs. Devitt possessed those qualities of heart and mind which endeared her to all with whom she came in contact and was held in the highest regard not only by the members of her family but by all her acquaintances. She was unassuming. and of a sunny disposition and cheery presence and a wide circle of friends will sincerely mourn her demise. At the recent celebration of the 50th anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Devitt she was the oldest of the five generations represented.

Despite het great age she took a lively and intelligent interest in every day life and retained her mental and bodily vigor almost to the time of her death. The passing away of this pioneer in a community wherein she resided for many years and in which she was held in general esteem will learn with sorrow by her many friends but the legacy which she leaves behind in an upright, and long life of activity and usefulness filled with many kindnesses will remain as a precious memory to those who had grows to love and esteem her for her many good and many qualities.

The deceased was an adherent of the Evangelical Church for many years.

Twelve children were burn to Mã and Mrs. Devitt, six of whom survive, vis. Benjamin, Waterloo, David Berlin, Mary (Mrs. Jacob Wissler), Lyndhurst, Virginia, Barnabus Philadelphia, Menno, Waterloo, Louisa (Mrs. Jacob Smith) Fork's Road. The dead are John, Abram, Isaac, Jacob, and Magdalena, who died in infancy and Matthew, whose death occurred when four years old. Thirty grandchildren, twenty-one great grand children and one great great child survive.

The funeral will be held on Friday afternoon the at 1.30 o'clock from the residence Benj Devitt, to the Evangelical Church for service thence to the East End Mennonite Cemetery, Berlin for interment.

The Telegraph extends sincerest condolences to the bereaved family.


The Chronicle Telegraph (190101), 14 Nov 1907, p. 5

Other Events:

• Eby ID Number: 00088-5128.2
• Residence: 1825, Burton upon Stather, , Lincolnshire, England
• Land: Bef 1839, Waterloo Township - German Company Tract Lot 006E, Waterloo County, Ontario
• Occupation: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Laborer
• Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; England Church

Notes:

"The Quickfalls of this and other counties of Ontario are all descendants of old Franklin and Barbara Quickfall who emigrated to America and settled in New York State where they resided for many years. One of their sons, named II Thomas was born September 13, 1799. He was married to Hannah Martinson who was born November 14th, 1803, and died June 18th, 1889. In 1841 they (Thomas and his wife) with their family and his aged parents moved to Canada and settled in Waterloo County, Ontario, on the old "Moxley Farm" now known as the "Evergreen Farm", a little north-east of the town of Waterloo. Here they resided until their deaths. He died February 10th, 1868. To them were born several children, but the name of only one of their sons has been received"

Eby, Ezra E. (1895). A biographical history of Waterloo township and other townships of the county: being a history of the early settlers and their descendants, mostly all of Pennsylvania Dutch origin: as also much other unpublished historical information chiefly of a local character. Berlin [Kitchener, Ont.]: [s.n.].

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According to letters held by Madeline Lavender of Burlington, Ontario in 1995, brother-in-laws William and John Martinson left Thealby, Lincolnshire, England in the spring of 1830 for Quebec and were some years in Jamesville, Onondaga County, New York through the 1830's.

Thomas married Hannah Martinson 20 Oct 1825, Burton upon Stather, , Lincolnshire, England. Hannah (daughter of Martinson) was born 14 Nov 1803, , England; died 18 Jun 1889, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• Artifact: Hannah Martinson's coffin plate
• Name: Hannah Quickfall
• Eby ID Number: 00088-5128.3
• Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Wesley Methodist

Notes:

Artifact:
Original at the Waterloo Historical Society