I was born in the grand-duchy of Hessen, in Germany. My parents died when I was young. I was partly raised in the orphan asylum, and at the usual age was catechised and confirmed in the Lutheran church. Some time after that, I came to the United States.

      I remember my first convictions as a sinner, only from my nineteenth year. This came from my committing known sinful deeds, when the Spirit of God commenced to strive with me. I felt a desire to hear the gospel preached and find peace to my soul, but had no chance to learn what to do to be released from my burden. I made good resolves, but had not the power to carry them into execution. After I came to this evangelical country, I worked around a while, and remembering my promises to God, and seeing how I had broken them, in following the ways of wickedness in company with my fellow countrymen, I became ashamed of myself, and began to read the word of God. I then broke off from bad company; and at length I attended a camp-meeting near Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania, on George Kimmel's land. Here I heard several converted men--Elders Andrew Miller, Jacob Myers and [201] others--preach. And thanks be to God, the light I received, with what I had obtained through reading, brought me to the feet of Jesus. I remained in a state of penitency for some time; and on attending a similar meeting, in 1835, at the same place, I commenced afresh to seek the Lord, and I wrestled with all my strength of body and soul and yielded to my Master Jesus Christ. I went home from that meeting, rejoicing in the pardon of my sins, and praising God for His amazing mercy.

      I soon felt as if it was my duty to exhort others to repentance. I hesitated to obey; but the obligation still rested upon me, until I was willing to do all I could in the vineyard of the Lord. Wherever I have had opportunities I have endeavored to preach salvation from sin through faith in Jesus Christ. I am willing to labor and suffer with His people, till I shall obtain my rest with the saints on high.

[THW 201-202]