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Archiver > CATAWBA-WEST > 1998-12 > 0915052059


From: <>
Subject: Re: Dronbarger-Summit
Date: Wed, 30 Dec 1998 16:07:39 EST


In a message dated 12/30/98 11:26:34 AM Pacific Standard Time,
writes:

<< Just for the record: CARPENTER is the English translation of the German
word ZIMMERMAN

Agnes Cloninger
>>

Agnes, you are kidding. I am fascinated with these differences in names.

I have been struggling with the name Dronbarger or Dronbarg. Two
"Dronbargers" married daughter of Francis Summit (Frantz Sammet) in Lincoln
County. Four deeds settling the real estate in the 1818 probate of Francis
Summit's estate clearly spell the name "Dronbarger". Notwithstanding this,
Jacob's marriage bond for marriage to Magdlin Summit July 25, 1813 in the text
appears to spell the name "Thornbarg" though the actual signature at the
bottom in German script seems closer to the Dronbarger or Dronbarg
interpretation. David's marriage bond to Betsy Summit February 17, 1810
clearly reads Thornbury in the text (David was the groom and surety was John,
probably his brother). In the signature line David signs with an "X" and the
name reads "Thornbury". These names appear to be in the handwriting of the
court clerk, Daniel Forney. John, however, actually signs his name and it
appears closer to Dronbarger or Dronbarg. Obviously, the "D" could be a "T".

I am just curious if anyone out there has any insights into this interesting
German name or insights into variations a genealogy researcher might follow in
attempting research the lines of these two families. I notice Lorena Eaker in
her book "German Speaking People West of the Catawba River" also notes the
differences. She spells the deed names "David Dronbarger (Thornburg)" and
"Jacob Dronbarger (Thornbirg)", while spelling the marriage bond names
"Thornburg" (page 448).

Paul Summitt
Freeport, FL

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