I am new to the list and am asking for help. Unfortunately, I speak and read very little German. I am looking for Rheinhold Hermle, born 31 Aug 1827, Blacksmith who served 6 years in the Army of BADEN-WURTTEMBERG. Height 5'8 1/2". Served 6 years in the regular army as a Rifleman. He was given a proper discharge with good conduct. However, he was obligated to serve in the Landwurt for an undetermined length of Time. Signed in Stuttgart on 1 Apr 1854 by Colonel of Regiment Meerdorf. I believe that at some point in time the above Rheinhold Hermle came to the United States of American and married Margaretha Hoffman. Margaretha bore two sons Raymond and Henry Hermle. Raymond married Matilda Gunther and had four children - one of which was my father Henry C Hermle. I know there is a large collection of Hermle families in Gosheim. Is Raymond and English translation of Rheinhold? I will appreciate any advice and/or suggestions on how to continue my search. Richard C Hermle rickh@thumpernet.com

You may want to take a look at http://members.cox.net/hessen/archive.htm#Military The English "Raymond" translates to "Reimund". Rheinhold or Reinhold (ryanholdt) or Reinhard(t) is more closely related to Reynolds, Reginald. It was a popular first name in the Middle Ages, bearing somewhat the signficance of godly or holy decision-making. I doubt that any of that carried over into the "New World." :-) Don