This well-researched compendium gives a comprehensive summary of the family of Jacob Schmitt (1808-abt.1892) and Anna Goedert (1806-1882). They, along with the families of Nicolaus Adams (1799-1879) and Nicolaus Frett (1795-1844), left the Eifel area of Münk, Mayen, Rhineland, Prussia (today Germany) and from the Port of Le Havre, immigrated to America aboard the ship Albany. They arrived at Port of New York on 2 August 1841. These three families founded the town of Johnsburg, Illinois (McHenry County) and established St. John the Baptist Catholic Church there. The book identifies the five children of Jacob and Anna, their 48 grandchildren, over 125 kown great-grandchildren and more than 300 known 2x great-grandchildren. Some descendants eventually relocated to communities across the United States. The book includes internet references to sources and many photographs of descendants. A unique feature of the book is the color coding used to distinguish the generations and the Index of Names, making it easier for researchers to find information.
A wonderfully detailed and well-organized book, with some remarkable family portraits.
Clearly, this is the product of an effort of love by a descendant of the family.
My experience with books about genealogy and history is that there's always "something more" that could have been included. Providing a webpage to post updates after publication is a thoughtful way to meet this need.
I'm thankful for the color coding; it helps me relate to the different generations - especially when some people have what seem to be identical names.
I would like to have seen more stories about many of the descendants, but this is certainly a compilation worthy of being called a "reference" book.
I think the descendants of Jacob and Anna should be grateful for this volume that summarizes their ancestry.