Mary Anna Werkheiser, fourth daughter of Henry (or Heinrich) and Susanna Sherrer Werkheiser, was born October 2, 1838, in or near Easton, Pennsylvania.
I had Maria Anna’s baptismal Fraktur framed a few years ago in the hopes of preserving it. It had been tightly rolled for years and is very badly cracked. Perhaps a professional could restore it to its original condition, but a doubt it. The colors, however, are still vivid. I didn’t dare take it out of the frame to photograph it, so could not avoid the glare of the flash. I was surprised to see her name spelled “Maria” because I understood that I was Mary the fourth. I know Mom and Grandma’s names were spelled Mary, and I think over time Maria became Mary.
The poem was loosely translated for me some years ago by a friend, Gerry Groff, who is also of Pennsylvania Dutch origin.
I have been baptized, I am bound to
God through my baptism.
I will speak cheerfully
In cross, in sadness, fear and want
I am glad to be baptized
I will be extremely happyI am baptized in your name. God,
Father, Son and Holy Ghost
I am counted on your rolls,
To the people you call holy
O, what joy is mine thereby,
Lord let me be worthyI have been baptized, if I were
To die now what harm would come to me
From the cold grave
I know what father land and inheritance
That I will have with God in heaven
Awaiting me after my death
Heavenly joy and robe
Mary Anna Werkheiser
1838 - 1932
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