November 2003 - Nr. 11
The Benjamin Eby Family
b
y Ernst Friedel / Paul WeigelWhen remember the Pioneers who settled Waterloo County one name is very much in the forefront. It is the name Eby. Benjamin Eby was born in 1785 in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. He came to Waterloo County in 1806 to purchase extensive lands in this vicinity, on which he and his family settled the following year.
Benjamin Eby became the first bishop of the Waterloo area and was ordained by the other two bishops in Canada, Jacob Moyer of the Niagara area and Jacob Groff of the Markham area along with the blessing of his brother, Peter Eby of Pennsylvania.
He built what became the first Mennonite Meeting house, and the first school house where he taught. A replica of it can be seen In Waterloo Park..
He brought in a printing press and, in 1814, started a Mennonite newspaper. Eby also wrote many letters home to Europe, inviting families and merchants to join him in a thriving new Community, soon to be known as Eby Town.
The Eby Families were not only the early settlers in this area, but they were the pioneers who laid the foundation for the good things we enjoy today.
The anonymous friend wrote, "He was a person of unblemished character. Naturally of a sweet and gentle disposition, friendly and obliging, always ready to serve his friends in any way that he could by his interest and authority. This he did freely and generously, not proud or haughty, but serious in giving good counsel, and greatly esteemed for his integrity by all ranks and denominations. All very much desired his company and wholesome conversations."
Today it gives us great pleasure to honour the descendents of Abraham Eby for the contributions they have made to the development and prosperity of this area, by presenting to them the German Pioneers Award.
We are delighted to have Mr. Malcom Eby present today to accept the award on behalf of all descendents of the Benjamin Eby Family.
The award will be presented by Mr. Ernst Friedel, president of the German-Canadian Congress Ontario.
