Letter Written by Will F. Stephan to Unknown Recipient
June 16, 1909
Written to - unknown
Father, Fred Stephan came to this country in 1849 - 50days on the water. Landed at New York City and went to Cincinnati. Came with Lizzie, Lois, Karl and his father, his mother having died in Germany 2 years before.
Father, just 15 years old. His brother John came to this country in 1847 worked in a brewery 2 years. Then came to Shelbyville, Indiana. On the way Grandfather died with cholera then an awful epidemic. Buried in corner of catholic cemetery at New Alsace, Indiana near Cincinnati.
His brother John built and established brewery on ground bought by his father before his death. Father worked at brewery 2 years then served as apprentice at shoemaking trade part time in Shelbyville and 2 years in Louisville, Kentucky. At age 18 came back to Shelbyville and worked for Henry Fastlaben until 1858 on the "Square" after which he went in business for himself at the corner of Harrison and Broadway as a "Custom" shop.
In 1860 married and bought lot at 40 & 42 east Washington now Brick store site. Started shop and carried goods in a small way. Cousins at Louisville, KY. (Hauss Corner Market & Wentsel St.) have Grand - fathers christening papers. They are over 112 years old.
(This family history complied for my children, Karl & Fred Stephan thinking they may some day wish to know the true history. Will F. Stephan born on Store site. At age 13 commenced to learn barber trade, worked at it until 1888 (age 19) went to school till time when Brother Charles was killed (train) and I commenced shoe business with father.
Mother's Grand-father 77 years old when he died. Was up and around 3 days before he died. Shaved himself - would not have a doctor.
Grand mother and father Adams were married in Germany, came to this country in 1845, Dec. 15. Landed in New Orleans, La. Came to Cincinnati April 4 1846. "They came near starving when they came over in a sail boat - 81 days on water. Aunt Kate and mother fought over a moldy piece of bread they found under a trunk. From New Orleans to Cin. Came by rail, stage and canal. In 1859 married at age of 19. Lived about 7 years prior to this with her Aunt Denny on farm, now the Peter Stokey farm.
Michael Hatmaker (brother of Daniel, Sr.) was one of the first vegetable gardeners in Cincinnati, Ohio. Our Great Aunt Denny made her home with Michael Hatmaker. My mother was named after her. Magdalina Hatmaker Denny, she marrying John Denny Sr. Michael Denny Sr. Michael went to Germany and brought her over with him. Aunt was then 18 years old
Transcribed from the original with no changes in syntax