HENRY GERKEN

Henry Gerken, born in 1833, married Mary (Vorwerk) Gerken. Both were born in Baden, Germany, of old Lutheran families. They were both reared in their native land and soon after their marriage realized their ambition by coming to America. They left from the port of Bremen on a ship and eight weeks later they arrived in New York City. Within a short time they arrived in Henry County, Ohio, and established their home on a farm in Napoleon Township. Henry gave close attention to reclaiming and improving his land. He later moved to Defiance County and settled in Section 18 of Adams Township. He developed this farm also. His first wife, Mary died in 1878 and Mr. Gerken later wedded Mrs. Mary (Wendt) Joost, who was born in Hanover, Germany. Her first husband Henry Wendt died in Defiance County leaving her with a family of one son and four daughters.

To Henry and Mary (Vorwerk) Gerken were born eight children, one having passed away in infancy. They were: Henry, Herman, Anna, John, Mary, Casper, and Dora. Henry and Mary are buried in the Bethlehem Lutheran Cemetery at Okolona, Ohio.

Submitted by Marlene Patterson