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Gerburts und Taufschein (Birth and Baptismal Certificate)

Gerburts und Taufschein (Birth and Baptismal Certificate)

Printer: Samuel Baumann (American (Ephrata, PA), 1788 - 1820)

Publisher: Samuel Baumann (American (Ephrata, PA), 1788 - 1820)

Sitter/Subject: Salome Kemmerling (nee Fenstermacher) (American, 1814 - 1884)

Date: 1814
Medium: ink on paper
Dimensions:
Sheet: 12 3/4 x 15 5/8 in. (32.4 x 39.7 cm)
Credit Line:Museum Purchase
Object number: 1939.96.1

Translation
Birth Certificate
To these two spouses, namely Johannes Fenstermacher and his wedded housewife Elisabeth, née Kutz(in), was a daughter born into the work, named Salome in the year of our Lord Jesus 1814, the 8th day of March at [blank] o’clock [blank] under the sign of Libra. This Salome was born and baptized in America, in the state of Pennsylvania, Schuylkill County, Pinegrove Township. Abovementioned Salome was baptized the 3rd of July 1814 by Mister Mennig. Sponsors: Catharina Kutz.

When we are barely born, from the first step in life to the cool grave of the earth, is only a short-measured pace. Oh with every moment! Our strength declines and with every year, we are all too ripe for the bier; And who knows at which hour the final voice will awaken us; for with His mouth, God has not yet revealed this to any human. He who now tends to his house will leave the world with joy. Since surety, on the other hand, can provoke eternal death.

[in lower left heart]
I am baptized, I stand united through my baptism with my God, so I always speak with joyful mouth; in burden, in sadness, fear and need, I am baptized, for which I am glad. The joy remains with me eternally.

[in lower right heart]
I am baptized, if I now die, how can the cool grave harm me? I know my fatherland and inheritance that I have in heaven with God. After my death, is for me prepared, of heaven’s joy, the garment of celebration.

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