Lila Irene Knechtel

Other Events:

• Name: Lila Irene Martin
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-256814

Notes:

MARTIN, Lila (Mrs. Clayton L.) - Peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 15, 2008 at Heritage House, St. Jacobs. Lila (Knechtel) Martin, in her 83rd year, formerly of Floradale. Beloved wife of the late Clayton L. Martin (1998). Loving mother of Esther and Robert Saunders of South River, Miriam and Dennis Brubacher of RR 3 Moorefield, Murray and Yvonne Martin of Elmira. Lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, Julie and Steve Sanchez, Mark and Carmen Brubacher, Jennette and Robbie Lougheed, Michelle and Scott van Rooy, Derek and Vicky Martin and by her 12 great-grandchildren. Sister of Orval and Mary Knechtel, Dorothy Knechtel, Fern Knechtel, Erma Gingrich, Alfred Knechtel, Carol and Alson Martin. Predeceased by her parents, Ephraim and Edna Knechtel; two brothers, Clifford and Paul and one sister, Grace Knechtel. The family will receive their friends and relatives at the Dreisinger Funeral Home , Elmira on Thursday, November 20, 2008 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A memorial service to celebrate the life and faith of Lila will be held at the Wallenstein Bible Chapel on Friday, November 21, 2008 at 2 p.m. Interment in the Hawkesville Cemetery. In her memory, donations to Conestoga Bible Camp would be appreciated by the family as expressions of sympathy.


Waterloo Region Record 17 Nov 2008

Lila — Clayton L. Martin. Clayton (son of Anson M. Martin and Lydia Ann G. Lichty) was born 1918; died 1998; was buried , Hawkesville Union Cemetery, Hawkesville, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

1. Miriam Martin
2. Murray Martin
3. Esther Mae Martin was born 1947; died 15 Feb 2012; was buried , Wattenwyle Deer Lane Cemetery, Sundridge, , Ontario.

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/47269960
• Eby ID Number: 00048-3576.8
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1901, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer Son
• Occupation: 1911, Petersburg, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1911, Petersburg, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1933, Mannheim, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Knechtel, Ephraim, son of Alfred and Elizabeth (Hallman) Knechtel, was born in Wilmot Twp., Ont., Oct. 2, 1884; died at his home in Wilmot Twp., Ont., Nov. 5, 1974; aged 90 y. On Feb. 15, 1911, he was married to Edna Snyder, who survives. Also surviving are 3 sons (Clifford, Orval, and Alfred), 6 daughters (Grace, Dorothy, Fern, Lila, Erma, and Carol), 25 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren. One son (Paul) preceded him in death. He was a member of Mannheim Mennonite Church, where funeral services were held on Nov. 8, in charge of Gordon Bauman and Leslie Witmer; interment in the Mannheim Cemetery

Gospel Herald - Vol. 68, No. 1 - January 7, 1975 - page 14

Ephraim married Edna Snyder 15 Feb 1911. Edna (daughter of Christian B. Snyder and Esther Bechtel) was born 19 Aug 1891, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 15 Jan 1989, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried 18 Jan 1989, Mannheim Mennonite Cemetery, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/47269980
• Name: Edna Knechtel
• Eby ID Number: 00106-6063.2
• Residence: 1911, Petersburg, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Knechtel, Mrs. Edna - Peacefully on Sunday, Jan. 15, 1989, at St. Mary's Hospital, Edna Knechtel (nee Snyder), in her 98th year, of 49 Hampton Place, Kitchener. Beloved wife of the late Ephraim Knechtel, who predeceased her on November 5, 1974. Dear mother of Clifford and his wife Reta, Grace, Orval and his wife Mary, all of Kitchener, Dorothy of Waterloo, Fern of Kitchener, Lila and her husband Clayton L. Martin of Floradale, Alfred of Cambridge, Erma and her husband Gordon Gingrich of Elmira, Carol and her husband Alson Martin of Wellesley. Lovingly remembered by her 25 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Sister of Percy Snyder and Mrs. Ida Hallman, both of New Hamburg. Predeceased by her son, Paul and her sister, Mrs. Avon Witmer. Mrs. Knechtel was a lifelong member of the Mannheim Mennonite Church. A daughter of the late Christian B. Snyder and the former Esther Bechtel. Visitation at the Ratz-Bechtel Funeral Home, 621 King St. W., Kitchener, this evening (Monday), 7-9 pm and Tuesday, 2-5 pm and 7-9 pm. Funeral service at the Mannheim Mennonite Church, on Wednesday at 3 pm, Rev. James Reesor will conduct the service. Interment in the adjoining cemetery.

Unidentified Newspaper Obituary

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/47309650
• Eby ID Number: 00048-3576.1
• Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; [Member of New Jersulem Religion]
• Residence: 1875, Mannheim, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1875, Mannheim, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Occupation: 1881, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1881, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; [Member of New Jersulem Religion]
• 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, Petersburg, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Income
• Residence: 1911, Petersburg, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Retired: 1911, Petersburg, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Alfred married Elizabeth "Betty" Hallman 19 Jan 1875, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Elizabeth (daughter of Johann "John" Hallman and Sarah Elizabeth Bergey) was born 20 May 1851, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 21 Dec 1906, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Mannheim Mennonite Cemetery, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/47309800
• Name: Betty Hallman
• Name: Elizabeth "Betty" Knechtel
• Eby ID Number: 00048-3576
• Residence: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1875, Mannheim, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1875, Mannheim, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Occupation: 1881, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Elizabeth Hallman, "is married to Alfred Knechtel. They reside on the old "John Hallman Homestead" near Manheim. To them were born the following 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.].

____________________

Knechtel.-On the 21st of December, 1906, near Mannheim, Waterloo Co., Ont., , wife of Alfred Knechtel; aged 55 Y., 7 M., 19 D. She was married to her surviving husband Jan. 19, 1875. To this union were born twelve children, of whom two sons and five daughters survive. Buried in the Mannheim Mennonite cemetery on the 24th. Funeral services in German by Solomon Gehman and in English by Noah Stauffer^.

Herald of Truth January 10, 1907, page 20. Volume XLIV, Number 2

_______________________


KNECHTEL.-Sister Elizabeth (Hallman) Knechtel was born in Waterloo Co., Ont., May 20th, 1851, and died at her home in Mannheim, Ont., Dec., 21. 1906; aged 55y. 8m. 1d. She was a member of the Mennonite church for over thirty years. She was united in marriage to Bro. Alfred Knechtel Jan. 19, 1875. To this union were born 12 children, 5 children and 2 grandchildren preceded her to the spirit world. She leaves a sorrowing husband, 5 daughters, 2 sons, and 4 grandchildren to mourn the loss of a kind wife and loving mother. She was sick 9 weeks and had to suffer a great deal, but bore it all patiently. She had a desire to go home and be with Christ. In the forenoon she bade her husband and children good-bye, and told them to be faithful and meet her in her home above. Her remains were laid to rest in the Latchars cemetery. The house was well filled with friends and neighbors. Services conducted by Enos Cressman at the home and Noah Stauffer and Solomon Gehman at the church from Phil. 1: 23, "Having desired to depart and be with Christ which is far better."

Gospel Witness - Volume 2, Number 48 - February 27, 1907, page 768

Other Events:

• Eby ID Number: 00106-6063
• Residence: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Agricultural Laborer
• 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
• Occupation: 1921, Erbsville, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1921, Erbsville, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Christian B. Snyder, "was born January 12th, 1862. On October 7th, 1885, he was married to Esther Bechtel. They reside near Hespeler, Ontario, where he is engage in farming. To them is born one child "

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.].

____________________

Snyder-Christian B., son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Moses K. Snyder, was born in Wilmot Twp., Jan. 12, 1862; passed away at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Ephraim Knetchel, Petersburg, Ont., April 19, 1944; aged 83y. Bro. Snyder's death was due to a heart attack a few days previous. He suffered from a weak heart for a number of years. He was married to Esther Bechtel who predeceased him June 4, 1940. To this union were born one son and 3 daughters; Percy, Rosebank; Edna ( Mrs. Ephraim Knechtel); Avon ( Mrs. Willard Witmer), Rosebank; and Ida (Mrs. Simon Hallman,) Kitchener, Ont.; who along with one brother (Moses), 28 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren all survive him. Bro. Snyder was a member of the Latschar church for many years. He was a quiet man, but he gave a silent testimony wherever he went because of his consistent life as a Christian. "He being dead, yet speaketh" Funeral services were conducted April 21 at his home in charge of Bro. Lorne W. Schmitt and at the Latschar Mennonite Church by Brethren M.S. Hallman and Lorne Schmitt. Interment was in the adjoining cemetery.

Gospel Herald - Vol. XXXVII, No . 8 - May 26th 1944 page 151, 152

Christian married Esther Bechtel 7 Oct 1885, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Esther (daughter of Noah S. Bechtel and Veronica "Fannie" Christner) was born 5 Dec 1863, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 4 Jun 1940, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Mannheim Mennonite Cemetery, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• Name: Esther Snyder
• Name: Nellie Bechtel
• Eby ID Number: 00007-0719
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1921, Erbsville, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1932, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Esther Bechtel "was born December 5th, 1863. She is married to Christian B. Snyder. They reside near Hespeler, Ontario, where he is engaged in farming. They have one child named VII Edna."

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.].
___________________

Snyder. --- Esther, daughter of Noah and Veronica (Christner) Bechtel, was born Dec. 5, 1863; died at her home near Petersburg, Ont., united in marriage to Christian B. Snyder Oct. 7, 1885, to which union were born 1 son and 3 daughters: Percy, Edna (Mrs. Ephraim Knechtel) Avon (Mrs. Willard Witmer), all of Petersburg, and Ida (Mrs. Simon Hallman) of Kitchener. She is survived by 27 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild; also by 2 brothers (Moses Bechtel of Winnipeg, Man., and Noah Bechtel of Breslau, Ont.), and a host of relatives and friends. She was a faithful and loyal member of the Latschar Mennonite Church until her death, having accepted Christ in her late teens. Funeral services were conducted by Bros. Manasseh Hallman and Lorne Schmitt, Bro. Hallman using for his test Psa. 27: 1. The services were held at the home and at the Latschar Mennonite Church. The body was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. Her testimony is well expressed in the following poem:
"Is not even death a gain to those
Whose life to God was given?
Gladly to earth their eyes they close,
To open them in Heaven."

Gospel Herald - Vol. XXXIII, No 17 - July 25, 1940

Other Events:

• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-35215
• Residence: 1836, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Historic Building: 1838, 14 Church St., Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Residence: 1847, Mannheim, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
• Occupation: 1852, Preston (Cambridge), Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Weaver
• Occupation: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Turner
• Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; [Member of New Jersulem Religion]
• Occupation: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Gentleman
• Residence: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; [Member of New Jersulem Religion] Church

Notes:

By Mannheim, Peter Knechtel died at almost 70 years of age. He had been struck by a tree 17 years before which had crippled him so badly that he was left completely bedridden.

Berliner Journal 07 Oct 1875

____________________

QUEEN STREET SOUTH, EAST SIDE.

On the corner of King Street Rehscher's vaulted cellar already spoken of.

An open space.

A two-story rough-cast building with two-story veranda along the Queen Street front built by Martin Anthes (father of John S. Anthes) in 1835 when it was considered one of the best houses in the village. Henry Stroh purchased this house from Mr. Anthes about 1837. Jacob Stroh was born in this house. Behind it there was a garden of about an acre of land. There were 31 pine stumps on the property when Mr. Stroh took possession and these stumps had to be laboriously removed as stump- pulling machines, which came later, were not then available. The well on the lot was only nine feet deep. Henry Stroh carried on a shoe shop in his house until he entered into partnership with Carl Kranz, on King Street.

In 1857, after he had dissolved partnership with Kranz, Henry Stroh built a one and one-half story frame building next to his house and used it as a shoe store. Mr. Stroh continued in this shoe business until 1863 when he went into partnership with Mr. Reinhold Lang, the tanner. The Queen Street shoe shop was changed to a dwelling. Later Mr. Vanderhart, a tailor, had his shop in this building and after him Carl Englehart had it as photographer. Henry Stroh sold his house to George King. Later Charles Ahrens owned it and had it moved to the corner of Shanley and Braun Streets about 1880.

A one and one-half story frame building erected about 1837 by Jacob Kraemer, later on Frederick Street, as spoken of. Later an addition was added to the front and the building used as the local post office, with William Davidson in charge. Later George Seip purchased the building and used it as a saloon, with a bowling alley in the rear, the first bowling alley in Berlin. William Jaffray lived in the house for a time and later William Knell, son-in-law of Mr. Seip.

A one and one-half story frame building, originally a cooper shop, later the dwelling of Mr. Seip, after he sold the other building. In 1860 he built a brewery, known as Seip's brewery. Under the whole building he had a vaulted cellar built of field stone. Power for the brewery was supplied by a horse-power contained in an attached shed, shelter for the horses. Seip had a high reputation for good beer. He at first made his own malt, but later purchased it. After George Seip's death his son Louis continued the business until about 1880. The building was finally torn down to make room for the present auditorium.

The cooper shop, a small one story building, with brick chimney such as coopers used to heat staves for their barrel making, operated by Henry Brickner who later had his shop at the corner of Young and King Streets. Later Adam Stein had the Queen Street cooper shop. The Berlin coopers were experts in the making of what was called tight-wear,that is water-tight barrels, in large tuns which they made for the brewers.

A very early building, occupied by John Peters, a cabinet maker in Hoffman's factory, about 1860. The building had an outside stairway at the back. Peters was a bird lover and expert in trapping native song birds, mocking birds, cat birds, finches, etc., which he hung under his veranda roof in public display.

On the corner of Church Street a frame house occupied by Mr. Knechtel, a weaver, about 1842-1850. Knechtel moved to a farm in Mannheim where later he was injured in the spine by a falling tree to such an extent that he was bedfast for fourteen or fifteen years. He lived to about 1871. Conrad Doering occupied the Queen Street house for a time. He also was a weaver and made coverlets, etc. The house was torn down to make room for the present one of brick built by Dr. Clemens and later occupied by the late Dr. Walters.

Church Street.

On the south side St. Paul's Lutheran Church.

A one and one-half story unpainted frame building with gable towards the street, the dwelling, about 1860, of John Fleischauer, a laborer, a native of Hessen, Germany.

A one and one-half story house occupied by E. Kern, cabinet maker, about 1860 and later by John Ansted.

A vacant lot.

George Street.

Joseph Schneider originally owned all the land between George Street and Mill Street, mostly woods at that time, and extending to Benton and Eby Streets.


REMINISCENCES OF BERLIN (NOW KITCHENER) By JACOB STROH Contributed by Joseph M. Snyder.

Part I. Settlement - Early Villagers and Buildings, Waterloo Historical Society Annual Volume 1930

Historic Building:
Built by Peter Knechtel in 1838 it is of brick construction and in 1978 was in very good condition. Existed in 2003 gone by 2006.

Peter — Barbara Drum. Barbara was born 1810, , Bavaria, Germany; was christened 1847, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died Yes, date unknown. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• Name: Barbara Knechtel
• Eby ID Number: Waterloo-24609
• Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; [Member of New Jersulem Religion]
• Residence: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; [Member of New Jersulem Religion] Church
• Residence: 1881, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; [Member of New Jersulem Religion]

Other Events:

• Name: John Hallman
• Eby ID Number: 00048-3567
• Birth: CALC 1 Apr 1815
• Occupation: 1852, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; farmer
• 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; Farmer
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

John Hallman, "was born August 1st, 1812. He was married to Sallie Bergey (No. 902) who was born May 27th, 1821, and died May 6th, 1886. They resided near Mannheim, Ontario, where he owned a large farm. He died March 13th, 1888."


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.].

____________________________


HALLMAN . - On the 13th of March, in Wilmot township, Waterloo Co., Ont., Bro. John Hallman, aged 75 years, 7 months and 12 days. Came from Pennsylvania with his parents in the year 1824; was married to Sarah Bergy in 1838; lived in matrimony 48 years; was the father of 18 children of whom 12 survive him. He was buried on the 15th at Latshaw's meeting-house where a large concourse of relatives and friends had assembled. Appropriate remarks were made by Moses Bowman and Noah Stauffer, from 2 Cor. 5: 1 and Prov. 4: 32


Herald of Truth, Vol. XXV, Number 7, April 1, 1888, Pages 108, 109

Johann married Sarah Elizabeth Bergey 27 Mar 1838, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Sarah (daughter of Joseph Bergey and Elizabeth Wagner) was born 27 May 1821, , Ontario, Canada; died 6 May 1886; was buried , Mannheim Mennonite Cemetery, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• Name: Sallie Bergey
• Name: Sarah Elizabeth Hallman
• Eby ID Number: 00004-843
• Residence: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Sallie Bergey," was born May 27th, 1821, and died May 6th, 1886." Sallie Bergey, " daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Wagoner) Bergey, was born May 27th, 1821, and died May 6th, 1886. She was married to John Hallman and had a numerous family. They resided near Manheim. "


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/39811903
• Eby ID Number: 00106-6059
• Residence: 1851, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; mennonist
• Occupation: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Other Methodist
• Occupation: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Misfortune: 1901, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; killed in railway accident
• Residence: 1901, Wilmot Township - Concession 1 Lot 02, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Berlet's Corners - The funeral of Mr. Moses Snyder whose death occurred in the railway accident in Berlin Monday evening, June 3rd, took place Thursday morning and was very largely attended, there being about one hundred and forty rigs.

Wellesley Maple Leaf, June 13, 1901

___________________

Moses, Schneider, of Wilmot, Instantly Killed by a Train in Berlin.

His Wife Fatally Injured

The people of this district were shocked, last Monday evening, to learn the sad news that Mr. and Mrs. Moses Schneider, who have lived for half a century on their farm near Berlet's Corners, were run into by a Galt train at a crossing in Berlin that afternoon.

It appears the old couple were returning from attending a Mennonite convention. Mr. Schneider, being partly deaf, did not hear the warning whistle or the frantic screams of friends behind him. The train dashed into his buggy, smashing it to atoms, killing the horse, grinding Mr. Schneider's body almost to a pulp and horribly bruising his aged wife. She was at once taken to the hospital but so many bones were broken and her other injuries were so serious that no hopes of her recovery are entertained.

Deceased was between 70 and 80 years of age, most of which time had been spent on the homestead, lot II. con. 1, Wilmot, where he earned a competency for his family and gained a character for honor and Christian nobility which few attain.

We understand the funeral is to occur today at the Mennonite church between Philipsburg and St. Agatha.

Wellesley Maple Leaf Jun 6 1901 pg 5

____________

MET DEATH ACCIDENTLY

No Blame Attached to Rallway Employees

Jury Recommends Grand Trunk to Erect Gates at Crossings.

WERE COMING TO BERLIN TO DE- POSIT $200 IN THE BANK.

Moses K. Snyder and his aged life partner left their large, well cultivated farm, in Wilmot township, with its neatly appointed home, shortly after noon on Monday, to come to Berlin. Their mission was a two-fold one - Mr. Snyder wanted to have his measure taken for a new -suit of clothes, and in his inside coat pocket there was a roll of ten $20 bills, which he was going to deposit in the Savings Bank and add to the credit balance of $1,444.61. They drove to town in one of those aquare top buggies-one of which belongs to nearly every Old Mennonite family. The faithful old horse jogged slowly along, and bye and bye they came to town along Albert-st. Whether the occupants of the buggy were dozing or were interested in conversation is not known; but certain it is, they were oblivious of the danger that lay in the fast approaching train, and which proved to be, for one of them, at least, the Messenger of Death.

The train, bound for Galt, pulled out of the Berlin yards at 2.37, and was travelling at its ordinary speed, observing the usual whistle signals for the different crossings. The collision came with a frightful crash, the tender, which was ahead, catching the horse about midway. The buggy did not cross the track, being hurled against the whitewashed fence, breaking it down, and crashing the vehicle into a mass of kindling wood.

Mr. Snyder suffered almost instant death, his head being terribly smashed. He breathed his last just after being carried into the house. He appears to have been either struck by the train or hurled against the post of the fence. His body lay be side the track, having not crossed it. Mrs. Snyder was carried or thrown about 40 feet further, where she was picked up, apparently at the point of death. The horse, which was disembowelled, was spitted on a large stump fully fifty feet from where the collision took place, and over twenty feet from the track.

The train was brought to a stand- still as soon as possible and the bodles carried to Mr. Chr. Hopp's reisdence, near by. Coroner Lackner was telephoned for, from Bramm's mill, and he, with Dr. Kalbfleisch, was soon on the scene. Examination showed that Mr. Snyder was past all earthly help- but Mrs. Snyder was partially conscious. She had sustained several broken ribs, the left arm was fractured near the elbow and she had two cuts on her head. She told her brother, Samuel S. Bowman, that they had left home to bring some money to Berlin to bank, but could not remember whether they had done so. She asked her brother to see if the money was still on her husband's body, and if so, to take charge of it. The brother asked Mr. J. K. Master to look through the dead man's clothes, and in the inside pocket of his vest, was found a savings bank book and $200-ten $20 bills. The book showed a credit balance of $1,444.61; the last deposit having been made in December last. The watch in his vest pocket was still going, and showed 5.20 when taken from his prostrate form.

Mrs. Snyder's injuries were dressed and she was conveyed to the Hospital in a hack, accompanied by her brother and Dr. Kalbflelsch. The remains of her life partner were entrusted to Undertaker Surarus.

The scene of the fatality was visited by hundreds of citizens as soon as the news spread, and morbid curiosity attracted far more women and little girls, than men, who crowded into the Hopp house in swarms to look upon the ghastly sight.

Deceased has a family of seven children surviving: they are, Amos, near Baden; Christian and Noah, at Hespeler; Samuel on the homestead, and Moses. The daughters are Mrs. Noah Bechtel, at Waldau, and Miss Sarah. There is only one brother living- Absolom, at Breslau; and two sisters -Mrs. Tobias Bowman, near Hespeler, and Mrs. Honsberger, New Dundee.

Coroner Lackner called an inquest for 10 o'clock on Tuesday.

THE INQUEST.

The coroner had the following gentlemen sworn in as jurors:
JOHN UNGER, Foreman.
M. MASSEL.
A. DENGIS.
G. M. DEBUS.
P. HYMMEN.
A. SACHS.
A. WAGNER.
H. HELLER.
C. BERCK.
JACOB WELHEISER
F. SEIBERT.
JOHN LEWIS.

They visited the residence of Mr. Hopp and viewed the corpse of the old man, as well as the spot where the collision took place. After this, the coroner gave the relatives permission to prepare the remains for burial.

The funeral will be held on Thursday at 9 o'clock from his late residence to the Shantz church, two miles west of St. Agatha

The Jury came hack to Berlin and took the evidence in the Grand Central.

The Evidence.

Walter Jones, fireman on the Galt train, was sworn, and said: My run is from Galt to Elmira: my train ran between Berlin and Galt yesterday afternoon; it is due to leave Berlin 2.50; yesterday we were seven minutes late; when we are late we try to make up time and were doing so in this case; when we are on time we run about a mile in three minutes - yesterday we were running between 30 and 25 miles an hour. I have no instructions regarding the speed to be run in the town limits. The engine whistled for Albert-st. crossing: we are to whistle a quarter mile before each crossing, and the bell is to be rang continuously until the cross is made; the whistle was blown about half way between the two crossings.
I was on the right side going down; first saw the buggy when we were past the bank to our right. The rig was about ten feet from the track; I gave the signal to stop, and the engineer threw down the brake. I saw the engine strike; the horse had pretty well crossed over. All I could see of the people was the woman's head: our train could have stopped in about 150 yards; we were about 25 yards away from the crossing when I gave the signal to my mate. We came to a standstill about 100 yards past the crossing; the man was lying beside the track on the road. I do not think the man saw the train coming: we could not try to make up our seven minutes from the station to Albert-st. I rang the bell.


J. W. Mitchell.-1 am engineer on the G.T.R. running from Elmira to Galt; went from Berlin to Galt on Monday afternoon: we were seven minutes late; left station at 2.57; instructions are to whistle at the different whistling posts, which are about 400 yards from the crossing; I whistled for the Albert-st. crossing as we crossed the Mill-st. crossing. My fireman told me we were going to strike a rig, about 30 or 10 yards from the crossing. I closed off the throttle, put down the brake and stopped the train; generally run from 20 to 25 miles an hour: were not going any faster than usual; have no special instructions to speed within the corporations. Have to keep the bell ringing for all crossings: Jones was doing this yesterday. The road is not a dangerous one.

G. Whitlock-Conductor I heard the whistle blow and felt the application ol the brakes, near the crossing: he was in the coach punching tickets as the time; heard the whistle for Albert-at. crossing.

Samuel B. Schneider-I saw the accident: I was on Mill st. at the time: saw the train cross Mill-st; had a full view of Albert-st crossing; heard the train whistle just before crossing Mill-st. Did not hear the bell ring. I saw the rig near the crossing; first about three or four rods from the track: the horse was walking the persons could easily see the train they had looked; I saw the train strike the rig; do not think the horse or driver saw the train, which struck both horse and rig. I do not think the Grand Trunk is to blame; I think the train was going its ordinary rate.

Mrs. Blankstein, living near Albert- st., crossing, saw the accident. Heard the train whistle three times. Saw the people drive by her house; both man and woman were awake.

The Verdict

The Jury decided enough evidence had been heard and draw up the following verdict:

We, the Jury empanelled to enquire as to the death of Moses K. Snyder, find that the deceased came to his death by being struck by & Grand Trunk engine on the Galt Branch, and that no blame is attached to any of the railway's employees in consequence of this accident.

Your Jury feel that, owing to the numerous accidents that have occurred in Berlin within the last few years at various crossings, the Grand Trunk Railway should provide gates for all crossings in Berlin.

Berlin News-Record - 06 Jun 1901, Thu Page 8

Moses married Lydia Bechtel 15 Jun 1852, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Lydia (daughter of Samuel Bechtel and Barbara Bauman) was born 15 Nov 1830, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 28 Aug 1886, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Shantz Mennonite Cemetery, Wilmot Township, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/39812001
• Name: Lydia Snyder
• Eby ID Number: 00007-0671
• Residence: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Other Methodist
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1881, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/20705482
• Eby ID Number: 00007-0708
• Occupation: 1852, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Yeoman
• Residence: 1852, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Occupation: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• Residence: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Other Methodist
• Occupation: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
• 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, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

Noah S. Bechtel "was born in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, September 22nd, 1818. On March 13th, 1841, he was married to Veronica, daughter of John and Maria (Luckebihl) Christner. She was born in Upper Alsace, Germany, September 28th, 1820. Shortly after their marriage they moved on a farm a few miles north-west of St. Agatha, Wilmot Township, where they resided until 1869 when they moved about three miles south-west of New Hamburg, on lot No. 25, Block A, where they still reside. They had a family of eleven 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.].

_____________________

NOAH BECHTEL.

Mr Noah Bechtel, an old resident of Waterloo T'p, a few miles east of Berlin, passed away on Monday. The funeral took place on Wednesday, leaving his late residence at 9 a.m.

Noah S. Bechtel was born in Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, Sept 22nd, 1818. In March, 1841, he was married to Veronica, daughter of John and Maria Christner. Shortly after their marriage they moved on a farm a few iniles northwest of St Agatha, where they resided until 1869, when they moved about three miles south- west of New Hamburg.

The Chronicle Telegraph, 5 Sep 1901, p. 5

______________

How They Farmed Sixty Years Ago

…I can well remember when Noah Bechtel, uncle of John B. Bricker our genial corn borer inspector for Waterloo county, shot a large black grizzly bear in October, 1863. They had seen the bear eight miles north where there was a large bush and swamp, called Queen's Bush, where the farmers had their pigs to get acorns and beechnuts, which were plentiful. Mr. Bear came out sometimes to help them to butcher. We had no selects, a pig was a pig. One day a squad went after him but did not get him. Later in October he came trotting along through Wilmot township. Moses Bechtel and Christian Hallman were ploughing beside Noah Bechtel's cedar swamp when he came walking right up to them. They went in and Bechtel brought his rifle with him. They followed the bear's tracks for a mile from the swamp, through John Forler's swamp, then across the road into another 400 acre bush. John Forler hitched his carriage team into the democrat, drove to Petersburg, and brought a man up with a hound, and John Ernst Jr. came along with his bulldog. Wm. Miller put his hound on the trail and in a short time found Mr. Bruin sound asleep. Miller fired a shot and the bear came trotting through the swamp with the dogs after him. When he saw that he was surrounded it did not take him long to climb a tree. Noah Bechtel, with a well aimed shot, brought the bear down. …

Waterloo Chronicle, 5 Jul 1928, p. 9

Noah married Veronica "Fannie" Christner 13 Mar 1841, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Veronica (daughter of Johannes "John" Christner and Maria Luckebihl) was born 28 Sep 1820, Upper Alsace, Germany; died 21 Apr 1907; was buried , Mannheim Mennonite Cemetery, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/20705613
• Name: Veronica "Fannie" Bechtel
• Eby ID Number: 00022-1616
• Residence: 1852, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1861, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Other Methodist
• Residence: 1871, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
• Residence: 1891, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

Notes:

Veronica Christner, "the fourth and youngest child of John Christner, was born in Upper Alsace, September 28th, 1820, came to America in 1825 and settled in this county in October of the same year. On March 13th, 1841, she was married to Noah, son of George B. Bechtel. they reside on a farm three miles south-west of New Hamburg. Their family consisted of eleven 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.].