Hello Susan, As you might have discovered by now,the vast majority of the Hessian soldiers were not mercenaries. They were conscripted along with other soldiers from five other German states by the respective Princes of those states. These Princes were cousins of The King of England.Some of the relatively few who volunteered for service were known as Jaegers ( Hunters). Please don't allow anyone to make you feel ashamed of you Hessian ancester. I am still searching for my Hessian relative also,and I have had to defend the bad rap that the Hessians still have. Thankfully this website has given us the historical facts to present a valid position against that. Many of these soldiers deserted and joined The Continental Army. Good luck with your research. Best regards, Jim Beck Jim