Hansler/Stirtzinger Family fonds, 1790-2018, n.d.
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Cameron, Chantal
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Abstract
Fonds contains material related to the Hansler and Stirtzinger families. Most of the material concerns the Hansler family, with a few files on the Stirtzinger family. Information about other local families is also contained in the fonds, including the Metler, Slough, Strawn, and Brown families. Some general material about the history of Pelham is also included.
Description
The Hansler family (originally Hansel) came to Canada from New Jersey around 1780. George Hansler settled with his wife and young daughter on Twelve Mile Creek in Thorold Township. The first year proved to be difficult and George’s wife decided to return to New Jersey with their daughter. She feared that they would starve if they remained. Without a reliable postal service, George and his wife lost touch. After some time, it was assumed that George’s wife had died and the marriage was dissolved. George then married Rosanna Slough and had four children with her: Julia, Barbara, Hannah and Andrew. By now George was settled in Pelham Township on land that he received through a grant. He planted a five-acre apple orchard in Pelham. The Hansler family became well-known in both Thorold and Pelham Townships as subsequent generations remained in these communities.
John Felix Stirtzinger was born in Germany. He came to the United States with his mother and siblings in 1828 or 1829 and settled in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Sometime between 1829 and 1835 he came to Canada, eventually settling in Pelham Township. Here he met Julia Ann Slough and the two were married in 1836. They remained in Pelham Township and had 16 children.