Steinbachs in Wisconsin during the 1850s
During the 1850s, census records indicate that John Paul and Elizabeth had five more children but their first son Charles died. On Feb 18, 1856 John Paul and Elizabeth expanded their farm by purchasing land from Ernst Schwefel - NE ¼ of NE ¼ of sec 25-12-16 and other lands. The History of Dodge County Wisconsin lists John Genzmer and Paul Steinbach as among the founders of Turner Hall. The school was founded to assure that their children would learn the German language and culture.
John Paul's stepmother lost three children during this time: her youngest Ernestine Wilhelmina in 1851, Ernestine Maria in 1858, and J. Gottfried in 1859. Her daughter Johanna Christiana married Carl David Schley February 14, 1858. |
1850 US Census
Williamstown in the County of Dodge State of Wisconsin Johanna Steinbeck (34) John (8) Gottfried (5) Gustav (3) Mary (2) Ernestine (6/12) Christine (10) All her children were born in Saxony except Ernestine who was born in Wisconsin. Other household members: Gottfried Ries (39) Mary Ries (28) I believe the last name is actually Kiese and that Mary is Elizabeth Steinbach's sister and the same woman who was Ernestine's sponsor. 1860 US Census Williamstown in the County of Dodge State of Wisconsin Paul 32 farmer Elisabeth 34 Herman 8 David 6 Emma 4 Tina 2 Louis 6/12 Real Estate $4000 Personal Estate $500 Separate listing for Johanna Steinbach 40 farmer/ widow C... Gottlob 18 Gustavus Adolph 14 Real Estate $500 Personal Estate $200 |