I didn't need any of the Bauer info but read thru some anyway as an off chance might connect with one of the German ancestors...... Since I am unsure of anything connecting most of the German ancestors named Messner, Sommeheimer(?) Sofer and Lewis. All possibly from Bavaria- Alsace Lorriane. Yes, Lewis, George-(as from Wales) and settled in Germany possibly as a seaman, married a Eliza Sofer and had a son George (b. 1845)? who I know came to USA but not when, not sure if parents came also. ( I only know he married elizabeth Messner in 1878 in NYC.) and would be my husbands Great grandfather. I sure wish someone could have found a Lewis for me in Germany- with even just half the info koffeecup provided. None of these relatives are alive to ask, and my husband never knew any from that side of family since his own Father died very young. So, thanks to Barbara for those that did get info from her, maybe one day I'll be lucky, too!