Adam Steiger by Mark Wilmoth
Adam Steiger by Mark Wilmoth
Adam Steiger was born on January 19, 1827, in Vielburnn, Darmstadt, Germany. Following his education, he embarked on a journey to America, reaching New York City on October 1, 1854, after spending 38 days aboard a sailing vessel. He traveled alongside a group of sixty individuals from his hometown, and the ship accommodated more than 700 passengers.
He journeyed from New York City to Chambersburg by train, where he reunited with his brother, George, before continuing on to Mercersburg. Soon after, he relocated to Williamsport, MD, where he took up a position as a baker under the employment of Dr. Grosh. He stayed in Williamsport for a duration of 16 months.
He relocated to Hancock, MD in 1855, aiming for a more lucrative business opportunity, where he launched a restaurant and a bake shop. It was in this location that he met and married Rosina Katharina Breisch from the nearby Indian Springs, MD. Their marriage occurred on April 24, 1856. Rosina was born in Germany on April 6, 1831, to Josef Friedrich and Christina (Ernst) Breisch, and they immigrated to America on April 12, 1852.
To this union was born: 1. Anna Katharina; 2. Mary Ellen; 3. George; and 4. Adam Ernst.
The family business in the restaurant and bakery sector proved to be quite profitable. He was able to establish a fine home and business premises. He spent around 12 years in Hancock, which included the Civil War period. During the war, Confederate troops passed through the area at one point. A few soldiers entered the bakery and offered a gold watch in exchange for food supplies. They mentioned they would come back for the watch after their raids in Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, that did not happen, and the watch has been passed down through the family. It was still in good working condition as of 2009.
In 1867, he transferred ownership of his business to Mr. Mellott and relocated to Mercersburg, where he acquired a farm a few miles from town from Michael Hoke. After several years of farming, he purchased property in Mercersburg on the north side of East Seminary in 1877.
He managed a grocery and confectionery store in Mercersburg for over 25 years. In 1885, the Franklin Electric Co. set up a telegraphic device in the store, enabling convenient communication with Chambersburg. In April 1888, a theft occurred when $3 was taken from his cash drawer at the store.
He had to leave the grocery business around 1900 due to deteriorating eyesight. His vision had started to decline in 1891, but he persevered for as long as possible.
By 1915, he was recognized as the oldest citizen of Mercersburg. At this point in his life, he had lost his sight completely but could still move around the house and shave himself twice weekly. It was noted that he typically went to bed around midnight and got up at eight in the morning, enjoying a hearty appetite.
At the age of 14, while still residing in Germany, he joined the Lutheran Church and remained a dedicated and devout member throughout his life. He became part of the Mercersburg Lutheran Church and attended nearly every Sabbath. When the current church building and parsonage were constructed, he made generous contributions. It was noted that he consistently gave willingly to support the church and promote the welfare of the community.
Rosina passed away on June 17, 1913, and Adam followed on July 30, 1916. They rest at Fairview Cemetery. His legacy continued to thrive in Mercersburg for many generations. His son, Adam E, was recognized for his entrepreneurial endeavors; his grandson Lawrence held the position of postmaster in Mercersburg, while his great-grandson Henry served as both the mayor of Mercersburg and the chief of MMPW.
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