Waterloo Region Generations
A record of the people of Waterloo Region, Ontario.

Amos M. Groff

Male 1868 - 1948  (80 years)


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Generation: 1

  1. 1.  Amos M. Groff was born 3 Apr 1868, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada (son of Jacob Groff and Lydia Martin); died 23 Dec 1948, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Erb Street Mennonite Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • Eby ID Number: 00044-3392
    • Residence: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
    • Residence: 1881, 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
    • Occupation: 1921, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
    • Residence: 1921, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

    Notes:

    Amos Groff, "was born April 3rd, 1868. On September 27th, 1893, he was married to Mary Ann Shantz. They reside on his father's old homestead which he has rented."


    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a history of the early settlers and their descendants, mostly all of Pennsylvania Dutch origin: as also much other unpublished historical information chiefly of a local character.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.].

    _______________

    Groff. -- Amos M. Groff was born north of Waterloo, Ont., April 3, 1868; died at the home of his daughter (Mrs. Lloyd Snider), near Breslau, Ont., Dec. 23, 1948; aged 80 y. 8 m. 20 d. On Sept. 27, 1893, he was married to Mary Ann Shantz, who predeceased him in 1924. Surviving are his father, one son (Howard, Waterloo), 5 daughters (Pearl -- Mrs. Daniel Bauman, Waterloo, Ont.; Mabel -- Mrs. Simeon Cressman, Hespeler, Ont.; Nettie -- Mrs. Jacob Shantz, Baden, Ont.; Vera -- Mrs. Lloyd Snider, and Reta, both of Preston, Ont.), and one sister (Mrs. Edmond Shantz, Kitchener, Ont.), Three sisters (Mrs. Joseph Brubacher, Mrs. John Schaefer, and Mrs. Jacob Snider) predeceased him. On Aug. 21, 1948, he made peace with God, was baptized and received into the Mennonite Church at Breslau. He greatly regretted that he had put off making this important decision for so long. Funeral services were held at the Erb Street Mennonite Church, Waterloo, with burial in the Erb Street Mennonite Cemetery. J. B. Martin and Oscar Burkholder officiated. Text: II Peter 3: 9.

    Gospel Herald - Volume XLII, Number 3 - January 18, 1949 - pages 69, 70

    Amos married Mary Ann Shantz 27 Sep 1893. Mary (daughter of Isaac Erb Shantz and Magdalena Eby) was born 5 Jun 1871, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 6 Nov 1924; was buried , Erb Street Mennonite Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]

    Children:
    1. Pearl Groff was born 31 Aug 1896, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 17 Mar 1987; was buried , Elmira Mennonite Cemetery, Elmira, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    2. Howard S. Groff was born 29 Mar 1898, Conestogo, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 10 Jul 1980, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Parkview Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    3. Mabel Groff was born 3 Aug 1902, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 20 Sep 1991, Cambridge, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Hagey Cemetery, Cambridge, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    4. Nettie Groff was born 16 Apr 1905, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 21 Sep 1990, Cambridge, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Erb Street Mennonite Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    5. Vera Groff was born 20 Feb 1910, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died Yes, date unknown; was buried , Fairview Cemetery, Listowel, Wallace Township, Perth County, Ontario, Canada.
    6. Reta Groff was born 1917, , Ontario, Canada; died 11 Oct 2013, Owen Sound, Grey Co., Ontario, Canada; was buried 17 Oct 2013, Erb Street Mennonite Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

Generation: 2

  1. 2.  Jacob Groff was born 3 Apr 1834, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada (son of Andrew Groff, son of Andrew Groff and Annie Huber); died 3 Nov 1920; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • Eby ID Number: 00044-3388
    • Occupation: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Laborer
    • Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
    • Residence: 1862, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
    • Occupation: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
    • Residence: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
    • Occupation: 1881, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
    • 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; Farmer
    • Residence: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
    • Retired: 1911, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

    Notes:

    Jacob Groff, "was born April 3rd, 1834. On June 3rd, 1862, he was married to Lydia Martin. She was born March 26th, 1837. They reside about a mile north-east of the town of Waterloo where he is now living retired. To them was born a family of six 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.].

    Jacob married Lydia Martin 3 Jun 1862, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Lydia (daughter of Henry Z. Martin and Catharine Miller) was born 26 Mar 1837, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 25 Apr 1915; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]


  2. 3.  Lydia Martin was born 26 Mar 1837, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada (daughter of Henry Z. Martin and Catharine Miller); died 25 Apr 1915; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • Name: Lydia Groff
    • Eby ID Number: 00075-4318
    • Residence: 1861, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
    • Residence: 1862, Woolwich 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:

    Lydia Martin, "the fifth daughter, was born March 26th, 1837. On June 3rd, 1862, she was married to Jacob Groff."


    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.].

    Children:
    1. Louisa Groff was born 1863, , Ontario, Canada; died Yes, date unknown.
    2. Henry Groff was born 28 Mar 1863, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 28 Mar 1863; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    3. Louisa Groff was born 3 Mar 1864, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 21 Aug 1942, Nine Pines, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , First Mennonite Cemetery, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    4. Susannah Groff was born 26 Dec 1865, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 23 Apr 1953; was buried , First Mennonite Cemetery, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    5. Amos Groff was born 1867, , Ontario, Canada; died Yes, date unknown.
    6. 1. Amos M. Groff was born 3 Apr 1868, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 23 Dec 1948, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Erb Street Mennonite Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    7. Veronica "Fanny" Groff was born 20 Nov 1869, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 1942; was buried , Mount Hope Cemetery, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    8. Jamima Groff was born 1870, , Ontario, Canada; died Yes, date unknown.
    9. Angeline Groff was born 17 Mar 1872, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 4 Jun 1946; was buried , First Mennonite Cemetery, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.


Generation: 3

  1. 4.  Andrew GroffAndrew Groff was born 18 Apr 1793, , Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania (son of John Graff and Annie Moyer); died 11 May 1877, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • Name: Andreas Groff
    • Eby ID Number: 00044-3340
    • Land: Bef 1831, Waterloo Township - German Company Tract Lot 007, Waterloo County, Ontario
    • Occupation: 1852, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; farmer
    • Occupation: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Farmer
    • Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
    • Residence: Bef 1865, Lititz, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, United States
    • Occupation: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Gentleman
    • Residence: 1871, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite
    • Hall of Fame - Waterloo Region: Bef 2012, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

    Notes:

    Andrew Groff, "son of John and Anna (Moyer) Graff, was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, April 18th, 1793. His boyhood days were spent in acquiring a business education which proved of great benefit to him in later years. At the age of seventeen he made choice of the milling business as the most pleasing to his taste. His first years of apprenticeship were served in Earl Township where he remained until 1822 when he was induced by others to seek his fortune either in the West or in Canada. Being persuaded by one Joseph Mosser and others who were on the point of leaving for Canada, to join in with their company, he came to Waterloo in the fall of 1822 and found everything most satisfactory. As he was a miller by trade, old Abraham Erb wanted him to take charge of his grist mills which he intended to do after moving to Canada. After being here a short time and making arrangements to move to Canada he started again for Pennsylvania. Arriving at home in safety and spending a few weeks in visiting friends, he then set out for his new home. He left Pennsylvania with his wife and family of four children and made the trip to Canada in seventeen days. On his arrival at Waterloo in November, 1822, he was engaged by Abraham Erb to work on the saw mill where he remained three weeks, after which he entered the employ of Mr. Shade of Galt where he remained for nearly two years, and acquired a considerable amount of cash. He then purchased 200 acres of land half way between Preston and Galt and in a few years he was the proprietor of a store, tavern, grist mill, saw mill, and distillery, from all of which he soon realized quite a fortune, becoming one of the wealthiest men in the county. In 1848 he sold this property and purchased the farm of the late David Erb, north of the town of Waterloo, now in possession of his son Jacob. During the close of his life he lived on the place now possessed by Mr. F. Scheifle, a little to the north of the town of Waterloo. Here he died May 11th, 1877. He was married in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, in 1815, to Annie, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (Reist) Huber. She was born October 15th, 1795, and died in Waterloo County, Ontario, September 19th, 1865. They had a family of twelve 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.].

    _________________________________-


    SAMUEL GROFF. PRESIDENT NORTH WEST BUTTON CO.

    Mr. Samuel Groff, though not a native born Berliner, still is a son of the fine old County of which Berlin is the chief town. He comes of Pennsylvania German stock. His grand father was Andrew Groff who learned the trade of Miller in his home state-Pennsylvania. In 1822 he came to Waterloo and after a few years spent there and at Galt, he acquired a large tract of land near Preston, where he carried on farming, saw-milling, a grist mill, store, hotel and distillery and became one of the wealthiest men in the county. His eldest son, Isaac, was the father of the subject of this sketch, who was born near Freeport in 1847. He early entered mercantile life in the late J. Hoffman's store and was one of the earlier merchants in Berlin. He was head of the firm Groff and Hymmen for many years, a house that was among the largest in the county. Several years ago, he went to Winnipeg and at present he is president of the North West Button Co.2a


    Berlin Today 1806-1906 official souvenir
    _______________________________________________________

    From the Region of Waterloo Hall of Fame website.

    The name of Groff in Waterloo in the nineteenth century was associated with the raising of Shorthorn cattle.

    Andrew Groff of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, settled in 1822 on 170 acres at the location of the Galt Country Club. He later owned a grist mill, general store, tavern and a distillery. In the 1840s the family moved to Waterloo where his sons and grandsons, with outstanding success, bred and raised Shorthorn cattle.

    A Knight of Warlaby, imported from Scotland, proved to be an outstanding sire. A son, A Baron of Waterloo," in 1882 was Grand Champion at the leading Canadian show at Kingston. In 1886 he was champion at Guelph. He was then sold to the Hon. George Brown. This bull sired what was probably the best show herd in Canada, winning awards on the American and Canadian show circuits. The Groffs were justifiably proud of their reputation as Shorthorn breeders.

    Andrew married Annie Huber 1815, , Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania. Annie (daughter of Samuel Huber and Elizabeth Reist) was born 15 Oct 1795, , Pennsylvania, USA; died 19 Sep 1865, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]


  2. 5.  Annie Huber was born 15 Oct 1795, , Pennsylvania, USA (daughter of Samuel Huber and Elizabeth Reist); died 19 Sep 1865, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • Name: Annie Groff
    • Eby ID Number: 00044-3340.1
    • Residence: 1861, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Mennonite

    Children:
    1. Catharine Groff was born 23 Mar 1816, , Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died Yes, date unknown.
    2. Isaac Groff was born 2 Mar 1818, , Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 2 Jun 1850, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Hagey Cemetery, Cambridge, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    3. Susannah Groff was born 13 Jul 1820, , Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 3 Apr 1887, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    4. Nancy Groff was born 5 Oct 1822, , Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 8 Nov 1897, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , First Mennonite Cemetery, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    5. Andrew H. Groff was born 26 Jul 1825, Near, Galt, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 26 Apr 1905, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    6. John H. Groff was born 29 Sep 1827, Near, Galt, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 23 Aug 1908; was buried , First Mennonite Cemetery, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    7. Abraham Groff was born 13 Oct 1829, Near, Galt, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 15 Feb 1885; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    8. Martha Groff was born 1832, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died Yes, date unknown.
    9. Magdalena Groff was born 8 Apr 1832, Near, Galt, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 21 Jul 1856, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Elmira Mennonite Cemetery, Elmira, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    10. 2. Jacob Groff was born 3 Apr 1834, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 3 Nov 1920; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    11. Mary Ann Groff was born 19 Nov 1836, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 25 Feb 1907; was buried , Blenheim Mennonite Cemetery, Blenheim Township, Oxford Co., Ontario.
    12. Leah Groff was born 17 Aug 1839, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 18 Apr 1910; was buried , First Mennonite Cemetery, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    13. Elizabeth Groff was born 24 Apr 1843, Near, Galt, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 13 May 1843, Near, Galt, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    14. Anna Groff was born 1844, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died Yes, date unknown.

  3. 6.  Henry Z. Martin was born 16 Feb 1794, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania (son of Peter Martin and Anna Zimmerman); died 8 Jun 1853, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • Interesting: religion, story
    • Eby ID Number: 00075-4296
    • Grave Photograph - Find A Grave: Gravestone Image
    • Occupation: 1852, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; farmer
    • Possessions: 1853, Woolwich Township German Company Tract 086, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
    • Probate: 20 Jun 1853, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

    Notes:

    Henry Martin, "was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, February 16th, 1794, and died on his farm now in possession of his son, Elias, June 8th, 1853. He was married to Catharine, daughter of Jacob and Magdalena (Bricker) Miller. She was born November 4th, 1803, and died after an illness of a few months, October 2nd, 1870. They had a family 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.].

    _________________________

    Martin Meeting House

    According to Isaac Horst, "Martins meeting house was the first of the Old Order places of worship to be built. A meeting house is reported to have been built in 1830; burial was begun in the adjoining cemetery in 1831. Martins was aptly named. The first three bishops of the area were Martins, all descended from the pioneer, Peter Martin. The land on which the house stands was formerly owned by Martins (1979: 376)." Peter Martin, Jr. purchased 220 acres of land from his brother, Henry Martin, on May 8, 1824. Apparently he set aside four acres for a meeting house and burying ground at that time. The first burial is reported to have been that of Peter Martin, Sr., who died March 2, 1831. The meeting house was enlarged in 1900.

    John Weber was the first minister, followed by Abraham W. Martin, Samuel Weber, Paul Martin, Tobias Martin and Urias Martin. At one time surrounded by countryside, the meeting house and cemetery are now completely encircled by the commercial development brought about by the rapid expansion northward of the city of Waterlo.


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

    ___________________________

    A-1-8 Henry Martin: The Last Will and Testament of Henry Martin, Yeoman, late of the Township of Woolwich.

    ,,,I Henry Martin, yeoman of the Township of Woolwich, considering the uncertainty of this mortal life, and being of sound mind and memory, blessed be Almighty God for the same, do make and publish this my last will and testament.. First that all my just debts funeral and testamentary expenses be paid by my Executors, trusty and beloved son and brother, Peter Martin and John Martin, As to my worldly estate, I will to my beloved wife Catharine, two cows out of my stock after her own choice and three beds, and if my executors see fit, they are at liberty to leave as many more beds in the possession of my beloved wife as they deem necessary, and my five stoves and pipes and as much house and kitchen furniture as she and my Executors see fit and proper, which she, my beloved wife, is to have in lieu of Dower. I further will to my beloved wife Catharine, the privilege to occupy the adjoining house and garden I now lived in on the old homestead, as long as she remains my widow. During her widowhood, she is to have as much firewood as she wants for her own use, delivered to her house, she is also at liberty to go in my orchard at all tims and take as much of all kinds of fruit as she wants for her own use and as much good merchantable wheat well ground, delivered to her house, as she wants for her own use, and three hundred pounds of good pork and fifty pounds of good beef, which is to be delivered to her house yearly. She is also to have each and every year, the interest of one hundred and fifty pounds, which are to be paid out of my farm on the old homestead, whereupon I now reside, and the cowshed that I have willed to my beloved wife are to be kept for her on my farm in good order during summer and winter so long as she remains my widow, and the old homestead my two youngest sons are to have for the consideration sum, of eight hundred pounds as soon as they have obtained the age of twenty one years, and as soon as they have obtained the said age, each of them are to have one hundred and twenty five pounds, which is to be deducted out of the said Eight hundred pounds as a part of their legacy, and should my two youngest sons not wish to have the said old homestead, my Executors are to sell, or lease, as they see fit, with the consent of my beloved wife, and of my sons. They are to deliver to my beloved wife, yearly, all the above mentioned articles, which she is to have yearly, and until my two sons have obtained the age of twenty one years, and herein after named Executors are to deliver to my beloved wife yearly fifteen bushels of potatoes, and after they have obtained the said age, they my said sons are to deliver the fifteen bushels of potatoes yearly, further that the one hundred and fifty pounds are to remain in the old homestead during my beloved widows natural life, or so long and she remains my widow, which my two sons, as aforesaid are to pay the interest of as above mentioned. The remaining four hundred pounds are to be paid as follows: in fourteen equal annual installments the first of each becomes payable three years after my said two youngest sons have obtained the age of twenty one year. Should my beloved wife die or not remain my widow when the last installment becomes due, my said sons are to have three years after the said last installment becomes due, to pay the said one hundred and fifty pounds with interest. My two youngest sons are to have along with the old homestead, the cedar swamp on lot number eighty six in Woolwich, that lies between my sons Elias and Peter's Swamp. I also give and bequeath the remainder of the whole of my real estate the proceeds there from, and my personal estate which remains in the hands of my Executors after payment of debts and other charges, to be divided unto and equally between and among all my sons and daughters, share and share alike. As soon as any of my daughters shall stand in need of house furniture, my Executors shall give each and everyone of them to the same amount as I gave my eldest daughter.

    Witnessed by Moses Springer, Elias Martin and David Martin
    Will dated 21 May 1853
    Will proved and insinuated 20 June 1853
    No Inventory rendered at the time.

    Wills of Waterloo County Register A 1853-1871, transcribed by Frances Hoffman

    Henry — Catharine Miller. Catharine (daughter of Jacob Miller and Magdalena Bricker) was born 4 Nov 1803, , Cumberland Co., Pennsylvania; died 2 Oct 1870, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]


  4. 7.  Catharine Miller was born 4 Nov 1803, , Cumberland Co., Pennsylvania (daughter of Jacob Miller and Magdalena Bricker); died 2 Oct 1870, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • Name: Catharine Martin
    • Eby ID Number: 00079-4773
    • Grave Photograph - Find A Grave: Gravestone Image

    Notes:

    Catharine Miller, "was born in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, November 4th, 1803. She was married to Henry Martin who was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, February 16th, 1794, and died in Woolwich Township, about three miles north of Waterloo, June 8th, 1853. She died October 2nd, 1870. To them was born a family 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.].

    Children:
    1. Rev. Peter M. Martin was born 30 Sep 1820, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 1 Dec 1902; was buried , Elmira Mennonite Cemetery, Elmira, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    2. Magdalena Martin was born 8 Dec 1822, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 6 Feb 1892, Wilmot Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Wilmot Mennonite (formerly Geiger) Cemetery, Wilmot, Waterloo Region, Ontario.
    3. Anna Martin was born 23 Oct 1826, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 29 Mar 1885; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    4. Elias Martin was born 19 Jul 1828, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 10 Nov 1897, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    5. Susannah Martin was born 27 Aug 1830, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 18 Jul 1835; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    6. Catharine Martin was born 29 Nov 1834, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 8 Apr 1902; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    7. 3. Lydia Martin was born 26 Mar 1837, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 25 Apr 1915; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    8. Leah Martin was born 31 Oct 1838, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 5 Feb 1891, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    9. Henry M. Martin was born 17 Nov 1843, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 12 Dec 1915, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Bloomingdale Mennonite Cemetery, Bloomingdale, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    10. David M. Martin was born 27 Jun 1846, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 1923; was buried , First Mennonite Cemetery, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.


Generation: 4

  1. 8.  John Graff was born Abt 1740, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania (son of John Graff); died Yes, date unknown.

    Other Events:

    • Eby ID Number: 00044-3337

    Notes:

    John Graff, "one of the youngest children of John Graff, was born in Earl Township where he was married to Annie Moyer and resided in the same neighborhood where he was born. Here he was engaged in farming. His family consisted of several children, all of whom resided in Lancaster County with the exception of three"


    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.].

    John married Annie Moyer Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania. Annie was born Abt 1740, Of, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died Yes, date unknown. [Group Sheet]


  2. 9.  Annie Moyer was born Abt 1740, Of, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died Yes, date unknown.

    Other Events:

    • Name: Annie Graff
    • Eby ID Number: 00044-3337.1

    Children:
    1. Mark Groff was born Abt 1793, Of, Paisley Block, Wellington County, Ontario; died Bef 17 Feb 1881.
    2. 4. Andrew Groff was born 18 Apr 1793, , Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 11 May 1877, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    3. Abraham Groff was born 28 Jul 1795; died 13 Dec 1864, , Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

  3. 10.  Samuel Huber was born Abt 1765, Of, Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died Yes, date unknown.

    Other Events:

    • Eby ID Number: 00044-3340.2

    Samuel — Elizabeth Reist. Elizabeth was born Abt 1765, Of, Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died Yes, date unknown. [Group Sheet]


  4. 11.  Elizabeth Reist was born Abt 1765, Of, Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died Yes, date unknown.

    Other Events:

    • Name: Elizabeth Huber
    • Eby ID Number: 00044-3340.3

    Children:
    1. 5. Annie Huber was born 15 Oct 1795, , Pennsylvania, USA; died 19 Sep 1865, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

  5. 12.  Peter Martin was born 26 Feb 1769, West Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania (son of Rev. Henrich "Henry" Martin and Mary Burkhart); died 2 Mar 1831, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/38400277
    • Interesting: story, pioneer, religion
    • Eby ID Number: 00075-4295
    • Residence: 1830, Waterloo Township - German Company Tract Lot 010, Waterloo County, Ontario

    Notes:

    Peter Martin, "was born in West Earl Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, February 26th, 1769. He was married to Anna Zimmerman, December 25th, 1793. She was born February 18th, 1775. He followed farming in his native state, but owing to the poor harvests for several years in succession, together with low wages and many business failures, caused him to make arrangements with his numerous family to move to Canada. Two of his daughters, Barbara, married to David Martin and Maria, married to Christian Zimmerman, remained in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, while the parents with fourteen of their children, together with Daniel Weber and others, moved to Canada in 1819. They, at their arrival here, settled first on the farm now owned by Dilman Shantz and the heirs of the late Abraham Groff, but not finding this to their taste they finally located on the farm now possessed by Menno Gingerich. Here they resided until their deaths. He died March 2nd, 1831, and she died December 12th, 1836. They had a family of seventeen children, all of whom were married."

    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.].

    ______________________________________

    Martin Meeting House

    According to Isaac Horst, "Martins meeting house was the first of the Old Order places of worship to be built. A meeting house is reported to have been built in 1830; burial was begun in the adjoining cemetery in 1831. Martins was aptly named. The first three bishops of the area were Martins, all descended from the pioneer, Peter Martin. The land on which the house stands was formerly owned by Martins (1979: 376)." Peter Martin, Jr. purchased 220 acres of land from his brother, Henry Martin, on May 8, 1824. Apparently he set aside four acres for a meeting house and burying ground at that time. The first burial is reported to have been that of Peter Martin, Sr., who died March 2, 1831. The meeting house was enlarged in 1900.

    John Weber was the first minister, followed by Abraham W. Martin, Samuel Weber, Paul Martin, Tobias Martin and Urias Martin. At one time surrounded by countryside, the meeting house and cemetery are now completely encircled by the commercial development brought about by the rapid expansion northward of the city of Waterloo.

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

    ________________________________

    ...Martin was 62 when died in 1831, just 12 years after coming to Canada, but his important role in local history was not forgotten. His home doubled as the Martin's Church before the Martin's Meeting House on King Street North was completed.

    The meeting house still stands today, next to the Martin's cemetery that holds Peter Martin's remains. Across King Street was the Martin's School (SS21), in use until 1972. It's gone now.

    Because of his large family, 17 children in all, Martin was once described as "probably the most vigorous progenitor in the history of the region." His story is told in a booklet Thou Art Peter, published in 1983 by the Mennonite historian Isaac Horst of Mount Forest.....

    Flash from the Past: Peter Martin House once stood in Waterloo, Waterloo Region Record 4 May 2013 Jon Fear, Record Staff

    Peter married Anna Zimmerman 25 Dec 1793. Anna was born 18 Feb 1775, Of, Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 9 Dec 1836, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]


  6. 13.  Anna Zimmerman was born 18 Feb 1775, Of, Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 9 Dec 1836, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/38400457
    • Name: Anna Martin
    • Eby ID Number: 00075-4295.1

    Children:
    1. 6. Henry Z. Martin was born 16 Feb 1794, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 8 Jun 1853, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    2. Barbara Martin was born 1 Feb 1795, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died , , Franklin Co., Pennsylvania.
    3. Maria Martin was born 12 May 1796, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died , East Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania.
    4. Peter Martin was born 27 Jan 1797, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 6 Nov 1831; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    5. Christian Martin was born 16 Oct 1797, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 23 Nov 1863, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    6. Daniel Z. Martin was born 5 Apr 1800, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 12 Jan 1856; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    7. Anna Martin was born 26 May 1802, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 13 Mar 1886; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    8. Esther Z. Martin was born 29 Aug 1803, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 31 Jul 1872, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    9. Samuel Z. Martin was born 18 Mar 1805, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 4 Dec 1855, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    10. John Z. Martin was born 20 Dec 1806, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 20 Nov 1879; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    11. Elizabeth Martin was born 27 Dec 1808, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 15 Dec 1900; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    12. Lydia Martin was born 24 Aug 1810, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 12 Feb 1899; was buried , Roseville Mennonite Cemetery [Formerly Detweiller], Roseville, Waterloo, ON, Canada.
    13. Joseph C. Martin was born 4 Dec 1811, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 21 Mar 1856, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    14. Benjamin Z. Martin was born 4 Dec 1811, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 24 Feb 1899; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    15. Magdalena Martin was born 14 Apr 1814, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 23 Feb 1897, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    16. Deacon David Z. Martin was born 30 Aug 1815, Earl Twp., Lancaster Co., Pennsylvania; died 23 Sep 1894; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    17. Judith Martin was born 2 Jan 1821, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 12 Mar 1884, Waterloo Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , First Mennonite Cemetery, Kitchener, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

  7. 14.  Jacob Miller was born 26 Mar 1777, , Cumberland Co., Pennsylvania; died 26 Oct 1853, , Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/37041817
    • Eby ID Number: 00079-4747
    • Land: Bef 1831, Waterloo Township - German Company Tract Lot 007, Waterloo County, Ontario
    • Residence: 1852, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

    Notes:

    Jacob Miller, "a native of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, was born March 26th, 1777, and was married to Magdalena, youngest daughter of Peter and Mary (Bear) Bricker (No. 1322). She was born May 12th, 1775, and died in Woolwich Township, Waterloo County, Ontario, January 6th, 1853. He died October 26th 1853. They moved to Canada some seventy years ago and settled a little north of Waterloo, on the farm now possessed by Andrew Groff. To them were born five 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.].

    ______________________

    A-1-18 Jacob Miller Sr.: The Last Will and Testament of Jacob Miller Senior, of the Township of Waterloo, Gentleman.

    …I Jacob Miller, senior, of the Township of Waterloo, Gentleman, do make and publish this my Last Will and Testament…I will and desire that all my just debts, testamentary and funeral expenses be paid as soon as conveniently can be after my decease, and as to my worldly estate, I will unto my daughter, Magdalena Miller, now Magdalena Pistor, the four acres of land where upon she now resides, being part of Lots numbers seven and twelve of the German Company tract in said Township, for her and her husband to have and to hold during their natural lives, and after their decease to be divided equally among her heirs, for the consideration sum of five shillings of lawful money.. As to my worldly estate the remainder thereof shall be divided equally among all my sons and daughters, share and share alike and as soon as conveniently after my decease, my hereinafter named Executors shall hold an appraisment, and have the whole of my property appraised, such that I have not willed to my daughter Magdalene, and sell the same by Public
    Auction to the highest bidder and the roceeds thereof divide equally among my lawful heirs, my will further is that the money due me, or such that may soon be due, from Andrew Groff to me, shall not be drove in or collected from Andrew Groff, not until two years after my decease, and no sooner, and I nominate and appoint my trusty and worthy friend Joseph M. Weber to be the Executor of this my Last Will and Testament….

    Witnessed: Moses Springer and Matthias G. Haug
    Will dated the 15 Oct 1853
    Proved and Insinuated 3 November 1853
    [No inventory sum]


    Wills of Waterloo County Register A 1853-1871, transcribed by Frances Hoffman

    Residence:
    Staying with Henry and Catherine Martin

    Jacob — Magdalena Bricker. Magdalena (daughter of Peter Bricker and Mary Baehr) was born 12 May 1775, , Pennsylvania, USA; died 6 Jan 1853, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]


  8. 15.  Magdalena Bricker was born 12 May 1775, , Pennsylvania, USA (daughter of Peter Bricker and Mary Baehr); died 6 Jan 1853, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/37041585
    • Name: Magdalena Miller
    • Eby ID Number: 00016-1322

    Notes:

    Magdalena Bricker,"the second and youngest daughter of Peter and Mary (Bear) Bricker, was born May 12th, 1775. She was married to Jacob Miller who was born in Pennsylvania, March 26th, 1777, and died in Waterloo County, October 26th, 1853. She died January 6th, 1853. To them were born five 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.].

    Children:
    1. John B. Miller was born 24 Feb 1802, , Cumberland Co., Pennsylvania; died 20 Sep 1881, Two Miles East Of Heidelberg, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    2. 7. Catharine Miller was born 4 Nov 1803, , Cumberland Co., Pennsylvania; died 2 Oct 1870, Woolwich Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    3. Maria Miller was born 6 Jun 1806, , Cumberland Co., Pennsylvania; died 15 Sep 1867, Several Miles West Of Waterloo, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    4. Jacob B. Miller was born 26 Mar 1811, , Cumberland Co., Pennsylvania; died 2 Oct 1885; was buried , Martin Meeting House Cemetery, Waterloo City, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    5. Magdalena Mueller was born 1817, , Cumberland Co., Pennsylvania; died , Hay Twp., Huron Co., Ontario, Canada.
    6. Polly Miller was born Abt 1817, , Cumberland Co., Pennsylvania; died Yes, date unknown.