Harmann Maehlmann

Harmann and Henry Maehlmann (brothers) immigrated to the United States in the early 1880's.

After working for a time on Kelly's Island, Lake Erie, in the vineyards, they moved on to Henry County.

In 1885 Harmann Maehlmann married the former Emma Brackhan.

They purchased 40 acres located in the S.E. corner of Section 20, Freedom Twp. from Henry Binger in 1886.

In 1906, an adjoining 40 acres located on the north was purchased from Henry Von Deilen. This then comprised the 80 acres tract which has been in the family to the present time.

Two children were born to them: Ella born 1885 and Carl born 1887. Their entire life together was spent on their land in Henry Co.

Harmann preceded his wife in death in 1922. Emma died in 1933.

Ella Maehlmann married Herman Riefers in 1907. One daughter was stillborn 1919, and one son Ferdinand was born 1908.

They lived out their lives in Henry Co., Ella died in 1950 and Herman in 1958.

Ferdinand married the former Hilda Biederstedt and presently lives on the original Maehlmann home place which they farmed until 1974 and isnow farmed by their son Elmer Riefers.

Carl Maehlmann married the former Ida Rathge in 1915 and two daughters were born to them: Ida, living only 3 days, 1917, and Pauline born 1920.

After the death of the father, Carl, in 1921, Ida and Pauline moved to Indiana where Ida found employment.

Ida Rathge Maehlmann married William Brenneke in 1927 and since his passing in 1942 has lived with her daughter, Pauline.

Pauline Maehlmann wed Herbert Rekeweg and lives in Woodburn, Ind.

Submitted by the Family