Adolph H. Merkel

    Adolph H. Merkel, grocer, notary public and insurance agent, Aurora, was born in Saxony July 3, 1820, where he received a collegiate education. His father, John T., was born in the same kingdom February 28, 1790, and died March 25, 1822. His mother, Johanna L. Merkel, was born in Saxony November 22, 1786, and died in 1863. The parents were married November 22, 1814. The grandfather, Christian Merkel, was born in Germany September 1, 1765, and died in January, 1840. The grandmother, Johanna (Eilitz) Merkel, was born in Germany, and died there March 11, 1807. The grandparents were married January 12, 1786.

    Adolph was a surveyor and farm overseer in Germany. He came to America June 17, 1849; thence he came to Aurora, Indiana, where he has since resided, and been variously employed. He was married, January 24, 1854, to Miss Catharine M. Steiger, who was born in Bavaria, November 14, 1835, and to their marriage have been born six children: Louisa, Emily (born November 2, 1856, died January 2, 1865), Kate, Amelia M., Anna R. P. and Bertie E. E. Mr. Merkel is a member of the I. O. O. F. and encampment; also the Druids and Druid Chapter, and German Reformed Church. His place of business is on the corner of 4th and Front Streets.

Source: History of Dearborn and Ohio Counties, Indiana by F.E. Weakley & Co., 1885.