My Genealogy Hound

SAMUEL KERST (deceased), Mr. Kerst was one of the most prominent farmers of this township; he was born in Berks Co., Penn., November 24, 1811, and was of German descent; he was the son of Samuel and Elizabeth Kerst, both natives of Pennsylvania; when quite a small boy, he suffered the loss of his parents by death, he then went to live with his uncle at Reading, Penn.; while here, he enjoyed the advantages of the schools of the place; he was raised principally upon a farm, and early became acquainted with the art of farming, which he followed with signal success the remainder of his life. In 1837, December 26, he celebrated his marriage with Miss Ann M. Moyer, the marriage ceremony being solemnized by Rev. William Pauli; Mrs. Kerst was born in Pennsylvania, and is the daughter of Henry and Sarah S. Moyer, both natives of Pennsylvania. Immediately after the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Kerst, they emmigrated to Ohio, halting for a short time on a farm in Montgomery Co., near Germantown; in March, 1838, they resumed their westward journey till reaching German Township, where they located on Sec. 13; here Mr. Kerst purchased the farm consisting of 166 acres, on which Mrs. Kerst now resides, and where he passed the remnant of his days in agricultural pursuits; he died honored by all who knew him, March 23, 1872, leaving a large circle of friends, an affectionate wife and loving children to mourn his departure and revere his memory. Mr. Kerst was a faithful member of the German Reformed Church for many years before his death, and died in the triumphs of his faith; in his death, the community lost a useful citizen, the church an exemplary member, and the family an affectionate husband and loving father. Mr. and Mrs. Kerst were the parents of seven children—two sons and five daughters, all of whom are living (1880); their names are as follows: Morgan V., Sarah Ann, Ackie E., Angeline, Evan M., Candia C. and Hattie M.