Arnold Willis Cressman

Other Events:

• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-202149

Notes:

Cressman, Arnold W. (1928 - 1998)

Arnold W. Cressman, church leader, visionary and entrepreneur, b. 11 September, 1928 to Joseph and Ida (Gingrich) Cressman on the New Hamburg, Ont., Cressman homestead, built by his great-grandfather, Amos and grandfather, Osiah, both Mennonite ministers. Arnold, the second child, had one younger brother and two sisters. He died on July 8, 1998 at the Latrobe, Pennsylvania hospital.

At age 14, Arnold left school to work on the farm where his entrepreneurial spirit expressed itself in building things from scrap metal, wood or machine parts and experimenting with new ideas in agricultural.

Arnold was baptized at the Geiger Mennonite Church in his teens. He studied at Ontario Mennonite Bible School and Institute in Kitchener, Ont. There he met Rhoda Garber, daughter of John F. and Anna Mae (Wenger) Garber, whom he married on July 13, 1956 in Burton, Ohio. They lived near New Dundee, Ont. .

In 1951, Arnold graduated from OMBI and was ordained to the ministry at the small, rural Blenheim Mennonite Church which granted him several leaves to study at Eastern Mennonite College. He earned BA degrees there in Bible and English Literature (1956) and a BA from Western University, London, Ont. (1960).

Arnold was pastor at Blenheim (1951-61) and at Baden (1959-61). Despite his youth, he gained respect for conciliatory efforts during a conflict which saw two bishops and several pastors leave the conference in 1960. In 1990, Arnold returned to Ontario to be interim pastor at St. Jacobs Mennonite Church for fifteen months. Alongside early ministry, Arnold taught at OMBI, edited Evangel, a monthly conference magazine, served on committees, did carpentry work and designed and built an innovative, cost-effective and environmentally friendly house for his family.

In 1961, the Cressmans moved to Scottdale, Pa. where Arnold worked for the Mennonite Publishing House and as Field Secretary for the binational Mennonite Church's Commission for Christian Education until 1970. He shaped and promoted Christian education across North America and wrote curriculum and worship material. He articulated his vision for the church in numerous published pieces, including his weekly "Nurture Lookout" column in Gospel Herald and in vanguard magazines like Festival Quarterly.

In 1962, Arnold and Rhoda purchased a small, rural property "with possibilities" but no amenities. Over three decades, they upgraded the cottage for the family - daughter Jenny and sons Eric and Jon Robert - gouged out several spring-fed ponds, planted a forest of 10,000 trees, a small orchard and garden, all in tune with a fundamental philosophy: taking care of God's earth.

In 1968, Arnold was named executive director of Laurelville Mennonite Church Center while still carrying his Scottdale jobs. His dreams, visions, well-honed practical skills and risk-taking transformed Laurelville. Association membership doubled, old buildings were redesigned and new ones added. Innovative programs trained youth and addressed critical issues in the church, business, society, the arts and families. Arnold proposed long-term goals but also kept Laurelville flexible to respond to immediate challenges. "Aiming at a moving target" was his style. Ill health forced his resignation as director in 1977, but he assisted with programming for ten more years.

Arnold's passion for Anabaptist faith and history permeated Laurelville's program and resulted in the founding of TourMagination in 1970 by Arnold, Rhoda and Jan and Barbara Gleysteen. On European tours the Cressmans led, hundreds of North Americans discovered their Anabaptist roots and renewed their faith. Gradually tours to six continents were added, connecting thousands of members of global Anabaptist-related churches. When Arnold's transplanted kidney quit functioning in 1993, he and Rhoda left TourMagination.

Arnold served on the EMC & S (seminary) Board of Trustees (1977 - 84), the Mennonite Publication Board (1979-87) and in numerous positions at Scottdale Mennonite Church where he was a member for 37 years.

Arnold's life was like a tapestry, its separate segments woven together by common threads of creativity, passion, faith and a desire for shalom. Never hobbled by the obvious, always striving for what might be, he encouraged others "to join him in new expressions of faithfulness to Jesus Christ."


Burkhardt, Ferne. (January 2006). "Cressman, Arnold W. (1928-1998)." Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online. https://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/c74712.html

Other Events:

• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-78366
• Occupation: 1911, Baden, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer Son
• Residence: 1911, Baden, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Joseph — Ida Lauretta Gingrich. Ida (daughter of Enoch S. Gingrich and Rebecca Witmer) was born 19 Dec 1897, , Ontario, Canada; died 19 Mar 1993; was buried , Wilmot Mennonite (formerly Geiger) Cemetery, Wilmot, Waterloo Region, Ontario. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• Name: Ida Lauretta Cressman
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-92303
• Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33662856
• Eby ID Number: 00028-2191
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1889, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; farmer
• Occupation: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1901, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Occupation: 1911, Baden, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1911, Baden, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Osiah Cressman, "was born November 30th, 1866. He is married to Annie Gingerich. They reside about one mile south of New Hamburg where he is engaged in farming."

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.].

_____________________


Death of Mr. Osias Cressman

A well-known and highly esteemed resident of this community passed away at the Kitchener-Waterloo hospital early on Monday morning in the person of Osias Cressman at the age of 66 years. Mr. Cressman had been ill with stomach trouble and submitted to an operation at the hospital last Wednesday. Other complications set in which caused his unexpected demise. The deceased was a son of the late Bishop and Mrs. Amos Cressman, and was born on the homestead on the southern outskirts of this village where he spent his whole earthly career. He was a devout adherent of the Mennonite faith and for many years, and up to his death, was a preacher at Geiger's Church on Bleams road. He leaves in deep bereavement his widow and a family of two daughters and four sons, namely, Elmina at home Mrs. S. Shantz, Haysville, Joseph on the homestead, Amos, of East Zorra, Omar of Wilmot and Simeon in Waterloo. He is also survived by three brothers and three sisters, Moses, Noah and Menno Cressman, Mrs. Good of Wilmot, Mrs. Fretz of Vineland and Miss Mary Cressman on the homestead. The funeral took place on Wednesday afternoon to Geigers' Church and cemetery. .A large concourse of sorrowing relatives and friends from near and far, assembled to attend the funeral service, which .was conducted by Bishop Manassah Hallman.

New Hamburg Independent Apr 7 1933 pg 5

Osias married Anna Gingrich 5 Nov 1889, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Anna (daughter of Rev. Joseph Gingerich and Elizabeth Good) was born 12 Jul 1867, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 4 Feb 1964; was buried , Wilmot Mennonite (formerly Geiger) Cemetery, Wilmot, Waterloo Region, Ontario. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33662856
• Name: Anna Cressman
• Eby ID Number: 00039-3182
• Residence: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1911, Baden, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Anna Gingerich, "was born July 12th, 1867. She is married to Osiah Cressman. They reside near New Hamburg, Wilmot Township, on Amos Cressman's farm. They have two children".


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.].

_____________________

Cressman, Annie, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Gingerich, was born in Woolwich Twp., Ont., July 12, 1867, died at the Elmira (Ont.) Private Hospital, Feb. 4, 1964; aged 96 y. 6 m. 23 d. Her husband died in April, 1933. Surviving are 3 children (Omar, Joseph, and Elmina - Mrs. Willis Wideman), 26 grandchildren, and 46 great-grandchildren. Two sons and one daughter preceded her in death. She was a member of the Geiger Church, where funeral services were held Feb. 7, in charge of Lester Bauman and Osiah Horst.


GOSPEL HERALD - Volume LVII, Number 14 - April 14, 1964, Page 327

Other Events:

• Name: Enoch S. Gingerich
• Eby ID Number: 00101-5647.4
• Residence: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennoite
• Residence: 1881, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1891, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Agricultural Laborer
• Residence: 1891, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1901, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Occupation: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Gingrich, Enoch S., son of Jacob B. and Elizabeth (Sherk) Gingrich, was born in Waterloo Twp., Ont., March 8, 1871; died at Kitchener, Ont., June 15, 1961; aged 90 y. 2 m. 27 d. On Dec. 29, 1896, he was married to Rebecca Witmer, who survives. Also surviving are 7 sons and 5 daughters (John, Cecil, Lorne, Arnold, Arthur, Clayton, Wayne, Ida-Mrs. Joe Cressman, Bertha-Mrs. Stanley Moyer, Annetta-Mrs. Wolfred Witmer, Cora-Mrs. Harold Groh, and Mary-Mrs. Freeman Austin), 44 grandchildren, and 27 great-grandchildren. He was a member of the First Mennonite Church, where funeral services were held June 17, in charge of C. F. Derstine and Edgar Metzler.

Gospel Herald, August 1, 1961

Enoch married Rebecca Witmer 29 Dec 1896, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Rebecca (daughter of Isaac Witmer and Leah Bear) was born 8 Nov 1875, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 26 May 1967, Galt (Cambridge), Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , First Mennonite Cemetery, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• Name: Rebecca Gingrich
• Eby ID Number: 00003-605.7
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Dunkard
• Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Gingrich, Rebecca, daughter of Isaac and Leah (Baer) Witmer, was born in Wilmot Twp., Ont., Nov. 8, 1875; died at South Waterloo Hospital, Galt, Ont., as the result of a stroke, May 26, 1967; aged 91 y. 6 m. 18 d. On Dec. 29, 1896, she was married to Enoch Gingrich, who died in 1961. Surviving are 7 sons (John, Cecil, Lorne, Arnold, Arthur, Clayton, and Wayne), 5 daughters (Ida--Mrs. Joseph Cressman, Bertha--Mrs. Stanley Moyer, Mrs. Anetta Witmer, Cora--Mrs. Harold Groh, and Mary--Mrs. Freeman Austin), 44 grandchildren, and 54 great-grandchildren. She was the last surviving member of her family being predeceased by 4 brothers and 5 sisters. She was a member of First Mennonite, Kitchener, where funeral services were held May 29, with Robert N. Johnson, Rufus Jutzi, and C. F. Derstine officiating.

Gospel Herald - Volume LX, Number 25 - June 27, 1967--Pages 582-83

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33662953
• Eby ID Number: 00028-2186
• Occupation: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Minister
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Occupation: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Retired: 1901, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Amos S, Cressman, "the eighth and youngest son of Abraham and Mary (Schneider) Cressman, was born September 4th, 1834. On March 25th, 1856, he was married to Anna, daughter of John and Anna (Weber) Martin who was born March 12, 1836. They reside in the township of Wilmot, south of New Hamburg, Ontario, where he followed farming for many years but now lives retired. When a young man he joined the church of his choice, "The Mennonite", and after being a member for some years he was, June 19th, 1864, ordained as deacon at the Blenheim Church by Bishop Henry Shantz. With the increase in the membership of the Mennonite body it was deemed expedient by the ministry to have a co-laborer appointed, so Mr. Cressman was ordained to the ministry, June 30th, 1867, at the Shantz Meeting House, Upper Road, Wilmot Township, by Bishop Henry Shantz. And after Bishop Henry Shantz's incapacity (He was a corpulent man and in his old age was very heavy, so much so that he could hardly help himself. This, connected with age and besides being troubled with asthma, caused his inability to attend to the duties of his diocese.) to attend to his large field of labour it became necessary to appoint a younger man to have charge over his diocese, to which Mr. Cressman was ordained as bishop, January 24th, 1875, at the Detweiler church, Dumfries, (being the old Bishop's home) by Bishops Shantz,* Hagey, and Martin, which position he still holds. Since his ordination as minister and bishop the church has had many and severe trials and difficulties and he has met with much opposition from some of his co-religionists, yet up to the present he has proved faithful, according to his views, to the doctrines of the church over which he is presiding as bishop. To him and his wife were born eight children"

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.].
____________


Cressman - Bishop Amos Cressman died at his home near New Hamburg, Ont., on Sunday morning, Jan. 17, 1909; aged 74 y. 4 m. 13 d. He had been a patient sufferer from neuralgia in the face for several years, which gradually became worse, affecting other parts of the body and finally settled on his heart, causing death. He suffered great pain at times but was patient through it all, having a desire to depart and be with the Lord. The end came very peacefully. He passed away without a struggle. A few weeks before his death he assisted in the funeral services of Bro. John Cassel and also attended the funeral of Bro. Joshua Nahrgang at the home church. Bro. Cressman was a faithful member of the Mennonite Church for many years, uniting with the church when a young man. On June 19, 1864, he was ordained deacon at the Blenheim Church by Bish. Henry Shantz. He served the church as deacon for three years, and on June 30, 1867, he was ordained to the ministry at the Schantz M. H. by Bish. Henry Schantz.[sic] Seven years later, Jan. 24, 1875, he was ordained bishop, serving the church in this capacity for 34 years, holding the office up to the time of his death. As deacon, minister and bishop he was faithful in the discharge of his duties, having the welfare of the church at heart, faithfully upholding the doctrines according to his views of what the Bible teaches, warning much against pride and exhorting to humility. He is survived by a loving companion, four sons and four daughters, all being members of the same household of faith. One of the sons, Moses, is a deacon in the church, and another one, Osiah, is a minister. Funeral services were held at the Geiger Church, Jan. 20, where a large number of friends had gathered to pay their last tribute of respect. Services at the house were conducted by Orphen Wismer and at the church by M. C. Bowman in English; text, Phil. 1: 20, and in German by Bish. Jonas Snyder from Heb. 13: 7. After the burial, many returned to the house for refreshments after which the brethren J. S. Gerig in English and D. J. Wyse in German, gave short exhortations. These brethren are from Ohio. M. C. C.

Gospel Herald - Vol. I, No. 45 - February 6, 1909, page 719

________________________


BISHOP AMOS CRESSMAN.

On lot No. 25, on south side Bleam's road, a half mile southwest of New Hamburg, one hundred and sixty acres in extent, lives this honored and well- known citizen of Wilmot township. The farm was purchased from the Canada Company by Dennis Devitt, and from the latter it was purchased by the late Abraham Cressman, father of the subject of this sketch, in 1850 Amos took possession on April 1, 1856. On March 25 of tue same year he was united in the holy bonds of matrimony to Annie, daughter of John and Nancy (Weber) Martin, of Woolwich township. She was born March 12, 1836. At the present writing her mother is still living at the advanced. age of 88 years. Her father died in 1879, aged 73 years.

The venerable bishop first came into the light of the world on September 4, 1834, being a son of Abraham and Mary (Snyder) Cressman. His father died a the old homestead near Strasburg in 1871, aged eighty-two years and thirteen days. The mother still survives him.

The subject of this sketch is a staunch and faithful adherent of the Mennonite church, with which he has been identified since youth, and to- day stands conspicuously prominent among its counsellors and advisers. He was ordained as a deacon June 14, 1864, a minister in July, 1867, and a bishop on February 18, 1875. Here in his typical Mennonite home he has lived the life of a humble farmer and constantly served his church for nearly half a century. His home is most beautifully situated on a bluff overlooking the Nith river bottoms, and from which a magnificent birdseye view of the village of New Hamburg can be had. Here in the newer addition to the old homestead. erected for their special accommodation, he and his kind and devoted wife live a happy an contented life, with the assurance that their past life has not been misspent. While Mr. Cressman has retired from active farm life he is still an energetic worker in the church for which he has so zealously labored for many years. That he has an inordinate affection for his children and a desire to see them on the road to well doing, we have good proof in the fact that his four sons have been assisted by him to a promising start in life, all being in possession of beautiful farms within a few miles of the parental homestead. It seems to have been his ambition to settle his sons as near together as possible, for three of them are in possession of three of the finest farms in Wilmot township, all adjoining each other, and the fourth has possession of the old homestead.

His sons are decidedly energetic and show good training. It is seldom that we hear of so many sons in a family possessed of such an industrious and enterprising spirit as do the four young Cressman brothers. And it is not often that we find a more clever lot of young men who give better evidence of good breeding in the presence of the stranger who may invade their respective homes. It gives the writer pleasure to refer to euch of them as follows.

Moses M., the eldest son, owns and resides on part of lot 25, 3rd concession, block A, three miles southwest of Haysville, about four miles northwest of Plattsville, and about five miles north of Bright Station. It comprises 130 acres and is classed among the best farms of the township.

He was born in 1859 and was reared to manhood on the old homestead. In June, 1881, he was united in marriage with Elizabeth, daughter of Joseph Y. Shantz. They have two sons. The mother was born in 1861. They removed to their present home some time in 1884. That their patience and toil are bearing fruitful results we have no occasion to doubt. Their premises bear a comfortable and decidedly neat appearance, an evidence of good farming and clever management. In the in the breeding and raising of live stock his ambition sees to run in favor of horses, for it is not likely you will find a finer lot of animals than those kept, in his stables. They are kept in superb condition both for the road and the far.

His farm was originally purchased from the Canada Company by one Daniel M. Potter, and subsequently transferred from the latter to the late John Bean, who in the course of time deeded it to his son John S. Bean. From the latter it passed into the hands of Bishop Cressman on March 9, 1874, and subsequently it became the property of Moses M. He has vastly improved it, being now a home that any person of domestic tastes would be glad to own. Both he and his wife are members of the Mennonite church, and their home is conducted on principles espoused by that denomination.

Enos M. On the adjoining farm to the north lives the subject of this sketch. He also has an inclination to improve his home and to make labor in cultivating the soil count to the best advantage. That he is making most valuable improvements the writer found ample proof in visiting his farm. On the occasion of the writer's visit he was busily engaged with a number of hands laying down a substantial Thor -old content flooring throughout his entire stables. The barn, which has been almost entirely rebuilt recently, is now one of the most conveniently arranged structures of the kind in the township. The stal's substantial and neatly finished, high ceilings and plenty of room and light, are features in this barn well worth the consideration of others who contemplate rebuilding or remodeling their barns. In addition to the barn a commodious driving shod has been erected for the housing of vehicles and farm implements. In fact, the entire premises have been renovated since the present owner took charge in 1887. From an aspect of delapidation and decay it has been transformed into a home that appears attractive to those who pass along on the public highways In 1893 the fine brick residence now occupied by the family was erected and completed, and old trees and other objects that were an eyesore to the pretty lawn it now affords removed.

This farm comprises one hundred acres of the south half of los No. 25, 3rd concession of block A, about two miles southwest of Haysville. It was purchased from the Canada Company by the late John Green on May 9, 1851, for $618. Enos M. took possesion in 1887. It is certain that it could not be purchased for ten times that amount to-day. Enos M. was born in 1864. and was married in 1887 to Lovina, daughter of County Councillor Jacob S. Hallman. Their family at this writing numbers five children, three sons and two daughters. The mother was born in 1867 on the farm now occupied by Mr. Charles Montag, the former home of her parents. As a wife, mother and housekeeper she is well worthy of high praise. She and her husband still cling to the old Mennonite faith taught them from their infancy up.

The view to be obtained from the portals of this home is one of more than usual distance and beauty. In a clear atmosphere the blue outlines of the Doon pinnacle can be plainly seen nearly twenty miles away to the east, and the Baden hills about ten miles to the northeast.

Osias M., the third son of the Cressman family, has possession of the old homestead, and as I have already described it in the forepart of this sketch a repetition is not necessary. He was born on November 30, 1866, and on November 5, 1889, he was married to Annie, daughter of Joseph and Betsy Gingrich. She was born July 12, 1867. They have four children, three sons and one daughter. They took charge of the old farm in 1895. In their hands the old homestead that has stood the storms of more than half a century will not decline into dilapidation and decay, for both are amply possessed of that strictly industrious nature for which the Cressman family is noted, to continue to keep it up in that comfortable and homelike condition it presented in days gone by.

Osias and wife are also members of the Mennonite church.

Noah M., the fourth and youngest son of the Cressman family. It was a source of great pleasure to the writer when he visited the home of this rising young farmer, for it brought to him pleasant memories of long ago. It was here that he occasionally played in his boyhood days. That was some forty years ago when the late Jacob Bean, founder of the home, was yet in the prime of his manhood. Here we periodically visited him and greatly enjoyed his generous hospitality and basked in the smiles of his genial countenance. He passed to his reward more than twenty years ago, the victim of a paralytic stroke. His bones repose in the family graveyard a short distance east of the home he hewed out of the wilderness.

To-day we see new and younger faces around the venerable homestead, but typical Mennonite hospitality and kindness yet predominates, for no where in my travels through the township have I met with more cordial treatment than that at the hands of the industrious young couple who now occupy it.

Noah M. was born on July 9th, 1870, and worked on the parental homestead until his marriage. He was married on March 12th, 1895, to Mary Ann, daughter of Aaron and Annie (Good) Snider. She was born near Kossuth, June 6th, 1872. They have been blessed with one child,a bright little son. On the April following their marriage they moved to the homestead where they now reside with bright prospects for their future properity. The farm is described as the north half of lot 25, 3rd concession, block A., and comprises 100 acres. It is two and a half miles southwest of Haysville and three miles southwest of Hamburg.

Mr. Cressman has since made quite a number of valuable improvements, especially in the barn. That has been built considerably higher and the stables completely remodelled, the ceiling being made higher and cement flooring put in.Galvanized iron watering troughs of the latest improved type are among the convenient fixtures added. The stables are well lighted and supplied throughout by waterpipes. for the distribution of water by wind- power. A well 292 feet deep gives abundance of that most necessary article on the farm. There are two large wind-mills, one being used for pumping water and the other for grinding feed and operating the turnip pulper. On the upper floor a room is set apart, for the chopper where plenty of feed is kept constantly on hand.

While he raises a large amount of grain annually Mr. Cressman is also a successful stock feeder. He generally manages to turn out from ten to twelve choice export cattle and from fifty to sixty hogs each season. In hogs he is decidedly to the front. The fine and thrifty lot of porkers in his stables at the time of my visit would be hard to beat, especially for the export market. His favorite breed appears to be the Tamworth and Berkshire cross, though he has a number of fine throughbred specimens of the former breed. Those oprosed to be Berkshire and Tamworth cross wonld undoubtedly change their opinions should they visit the hog stables of Noah M. Cressman.

The remainder of Bishop Cressman's family are daughters,named as follows: Mary, at home; Nancy is the wife of Eli Good near New Hamburg, Lydia is the wife of Christian Fretz at the Twenty Lovina at home

Waterloo County Chronicle, 2 Nov 1899, p. 6

Amos married Annie Martin 25 Mar 1856, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Annie (daughter of John Z. Martin and Anna Weber) was born 12 Mar 1836, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 8 Feb 1914, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Wilmot Mennonite (formerly Geiger) Cemetery, Wilmot, Waterloo Region, Ontario. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/33662989
• Name: Annie Cressman
• Eby ID Number: 00075-4453
• Residence: 1851, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonist
• Residence: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1911, Baden, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Anna Martin, "the second daughter of John and Anna (Weber) Martin, was born March 12th, 1836. On March 25th, 1856, she was married to Bishop Amos, son of Abraham and Mary (Schneider) Cressman"

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.].

______________________________________________


CRESSMAN. - At the home of her son near New Hamburg, Ont., Annie (Martin) Cressman, widow of the late Bishop Amos Cressman. She was born on March 12, 1836; died Feb. 8, 1914; aged 77y. 10m. 27d. She leaves to mourn her departure 8 children, 31 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. She had been ill only a few days, but nothing serious. She was taking her dinner and when found by her daughter-in-law life was extinct. Her desire had been that she might go home and her request had been granted. She united with the Mennonite Church in her youth and lived an exemplary Christian life to the end. Funeral Feb. 11 from her son,s residence to Geiger,s Church for services. Buried in adjoining cemetery. Services by Bro. Moses H. Shantz and at the church by Bro. Jonas Snider in German (Text, Heb. 11: 13,14) and Bro. Manasseh Hallman in English (Text, Acts 20: 24). A large concourse of people had gathered to pay the last tribute of respect to the departed one^.

Gospel Herald - Volume VI, Number 50 - March 12, 1914 - page 779, 780

Other Events:

• Eby ID Number: 00039-3179
• Occupation: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Lutheran
• Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1864, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Occupation: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• 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; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1901, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1911, Floradale, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Retired: 1911, Floradale, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Joseph Gingerich, "was born March 31st, 1842. On March 29th, 1864, he was married to Elizabeth, daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Martin) Good. She was born June 12th, 1840. Soon after their marriage they moved on lot No. 94, German Company's Tract, Woolwich township, about four miles north of Elmira. Here they have resided since. On December 2nd, 1867, he was ordained minister of the Mennonite body which position he has held ever since. He is highly esteemed by all his church members and is an ordinary good speaker behind the pulpit. May his labors be crowned with success in the winning of souls for the Kingdom of Heaven. Their family consists of nine children"


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.].

Joseph married Elizabeth Good 29 Mar 1864, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Elizabeth (daughter of Daniel S. Good and Elizabeth Martin) was born 13 Jun 1840, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died Yes, date unknown. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• Name: Elizabeth Gingerich
• Eby ID Number: 00041-3261
• Residence: 1861, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1864, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1871, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1891, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1911, Floradale, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Elizabeth Good, "was born June 13th, 1840. She is married to Joseph Gingerich and they reside about four miles north of Elmira. They have had a family of nine children"


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.].

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/61444702
• Name: Gingrich
• Eby ID Number: 00039-3178
• Residence: 1863, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1866, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Occupation: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1881, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1891, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1891, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1901, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Minister
• Occupation: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Income
• Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Retired: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Jacob B. Gingerich, "was born June 13th, 1840. He was first married to Mary, daughter of Rev. David and Elizabeth (Betzner) Sherk. She was born February 4th, 1837. They resided on the old "Sherk Farm" on the east bank of the Grand River, opposite the village of Doon where she died May 3rd, 1866. After her decease he was married to Elizabeth Sherk, sister to his first wife. She was born July 27th, 1845. On July 1st, 1878, he was ordained as a minister of the Mennonite body for the Hagey and Wanner field of labor. He is a good man and a diligent worker for the Master, and is very liberal in his views in regard to the plan of salvation. As a minister he is very popular on his fields of labor. Of first wife there was one son named David (dead). Of second union there were ten children".

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.].

____________________

Preston (Bechtel or Hagey) Mennonite Church

The second meeting house in Waterloo County was built, probably in 1814, by John Erb, a wealthy miller of Preston. This brick meeting house served as a community church and was located "near Jacob Hagey's", which was on the road running from the top of the Kress Hill west and "adjoining the Kitchener Highway" (Witmer 1967: 26). Another meeting house, known as the Union Meeting House, was built in the area around 1824. A meeting was held in the Union church on November 20, 1824 to commence recording the accounts of the congregation in Hagey's Deacon Book. The deed of land for the Union Meeting House and burial ground, which was for one acre of part Lot 22, Beasley's Broken Front, was transacted in 1835.

Hagey Meeting House was buiilt of red brick in 1842 on part Lot 23, just north of Preston on the west side of the Breslau Road, and slightly north of the Union Meeting House site. The deed, dated February 2, 1842, recorded the purchase of the land from John Hilborn and stressed that the property was to be for "the purpose of public worship by the Mennonist Society" (Witmer 1967: 28). Joseph Bechtel was the first minister in the area, from 1804-1837; he was followed by David Sherk (1838-1843). Next came Joseph Hagey (1844-1877), who was ordained bishop in 1851, and then Jacob B. Gingrich from 1878 to 1901. Services were held every four weeks until 1890 when bi-weekly services were begun. A Sunday School was established in 1842 with the congregation of Wanner Meeting House near Hespeler, but it was discontinued because of a difference of opinion regarding the need for Sunday Schools. On April 26, 1891 a Sunday School was organized at Hagey's, with deacon Abraham Oberholtzer as superintendent. Five years later, on June 10, 1896, a Sunday School was organized at the Wanner church.

Major changes were made to the church building in 1927-1928 when the basement was excavated, new windows were installed and the roof was raised two feet. Fire on January 15, 1950 caused extensive damage to the interior and furnishings of the church. The building was completely renovated and also enlarged at the same time; dedication was on July 2, 1950. Another fire, on Feburary 19, 1953, completely destroyed the church. A congregational decision was made to build a new church, on Concession Road in Preston, and the cornerstone was laid on Thanksgiving Day, October 12, 1953. Official dedication services in the new Preston Mennonite Church were held on May 16, 1954. The building was enlarged in the summer of 1989.

Waterloo County Churches A Research Guide To Churches Established Before 1900 By Rosemary Ambrose

____________________________________

Gingrich - Pre. Jacob B. Gingrich was born in Waterloo Twp., Ont., June 13, 1840; died Oct. 11, 1920; aged 80 y. 3 m. 28 d. He was first married to Sister Mary Sherk, daughter of Pre. David Sherk. She preceded him in death. He was again married to Elizabeth Sherk, sister of his first wife, Dec. 2, 1866. July 2, 1878 he was ordained to the ministry and for thirty years served to the best of his ability in that capacity. He labored with the Wanner and Hagey congregations. Twelve years ago he received a paralytic stroke while in the pulpit from which he never fully recovered. The last four years he has been confined to his home. He was a devoted companion and a kind father, ever willing to help those in need. He was patient in his sufferings. He leaves a loving companion, 4 sons, 3 daughters, and 26 grandchildren. Two sons and 1 daughter preceded him. Funeral services were held at Hagey's Church by Brethren Ben Shantz, Abram Snider, and Jonas Snider. Many relatives and friends gathered to pay the last tribute of respect. Burial in cemetery nearby.

Obituary - Gospel Herald, November 25, 1920

Jacob married Elizabeth Sherk 9 Dec 1866, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Elizabeth (daughter of Rev. David Sherk and Elizabeth B. Betzner) was born 27 Jul 1845, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 12 Nov 1934; was buried , Hagey Cemetery, Cambridge, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/61444742
• Name: Elizabeth Gingrich
• Eby ID Number: 00101-5647
• Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1866, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1881, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1891, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Elizabeth Shirk, "was born July 27th, 1845. She was married to Rev. Jacob B. Gingerich and resides on part of the old "Sherk Homestead." To them were born ten children"

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.].

__________________________

Gingrich. - Elizabeth Sherk, wife of the late Jacob B. Gingrich, was born July 27, 1845; died Nov. 12, 1934; aged 89 y. 3 m. 15 d. She became a member of the Mennonite Church in her early years. She was married to Jacob B. Gingrich in 1866, who was ordained to the ministry of the Mennonite Church 12 years later and who preceded her in death in the year 1920. To this union were born 10 children: Mary (Mrs. Martin Boyer), John (who died in infancy), Enoch, Norman, Dilman, Elizabeth (Mrs. W. K. Jacobs), Nancy (Mrs. Levi Hostetler), Jacob, Samuel (died in 1904), Barbara (died, 1911) ; also 24 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren living.

Gospel Herald - Vol. XXVII, No. 35 - November 29, 1934 - pages 754,755

Other Events:

• Eby ID Number: 00135-8304
• Residence: 1867, Guelph Township, Wellington Co., Ontario, Canada
• Occupation: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Occupation: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Dunkard
• Occupation: 1901, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Occupation: 1911, New Dundee, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Income
• Residence: 1911, New Dundee, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Dunkard
• Retired: 1911, New Dundee, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Isaac Witmer, "is married to Leah Bear. They reside in Wilmot Township, near Huron Road. He is a farmer."


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.].

_______________


Witmer. - Isaac Witmer was born April 3, 1842; died Jan. 10, 1929, at the home of his son J. Wesley, near Petersburg, Ont. On Nov. 5, 1867, he was united in marriage to Leah Baer and to this union were born ten children: Mrs. Wm. Spaetzel, New Dundee, Ont.; Mrs. Jacob Spaetzel, Petersburg, Ont.; Jonas, who died in his fourteenth year; Isaiah, Kitchener, Ont.; Mrs. Enoch Gingerich, Preston, Ont.; Mrs. Samuel Schmitt, Kitchener, Ont.; Mrs. Noah Otterbein, Petersburg, Ont.; J. Wesley, Petersburg, Ont.; Edmund, Kitchener, Ont.; and Mrs. Herbert Herner, who preceded him in death twenty-three years ago. These with 3 brothers (John, Listowel, Ont.; Benjamin of Sask.; Henry, Preston, Ont.), 1 sister (Mrs. Edward Grabiel, Fordwick, Ont.), 72 grandchildren, and 59 great-grandchildren survive. On Aug. 17, 1908, his wife was called to her eternal home. He was married on Feb. 1, 1910, to Elizabeth Doner of Stayner, Ont., who also passed to her reward on May 31, 1918. He was converted when forty-four years of age and united with the Brethren in Christ Church and lived a faithful and consistent Christian life. He served in the office of deacon in the Waterloo, Ont., district for a number of years. Because of a lingering illness he was confined to his bed for the past three years, yet he always bore his suffering with patience and Christian fortitude. Funeral services were conducted at the Rosebank church on Jan. 14, 1929, in charge of E. J. Swalm assisted by Simon Cober and Manasseh Hallman. Text, Psa. 107: 30. Interment in cemetery near by.


Gospel Herald - Volume XXI, Number 48 - February 28, 1929 - page 1005, 1006, 1007

Isaac married Leah Bear 5 Nov 1867, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Leah (daughter of Rev. John G. Bear and Anna "Nancy" Pannabecker) was born 2 Sep 1839, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 17 Aug 1908; was buried , Rosebank Community Cemetery, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• Name: Leah Witmer
• Eby ID Number: 00003-605
• Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1867, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Dunkard

Notes:

Leah Bear, "was born September 2nd, 1839. She is married to Isaac Witmer. They reside in Wilmot Township, where he is engaged in farming. Their family consists of ten children"


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.].