This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: les570 Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/surnames.dietrich/321.1.2.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: I read with interest your messages relative to the Detrick family. I have no less than 11 Martin Detricks in my database. Can you please give me more info so that I can determine which of these is your g-g-g-grandfather. The names of Martin's parents would help if you have this info. You might be interested in the following. In December 2004 I was able to obtain from the Generallandesarchiv Karlsruhe, Baden, a copy of the Diploma of Nobility that was decorated on Johann Peter Dieterich and his two sons (Felix Ernst and Wilhelm Emanuel) on 15 October 1700. The Diploma was signed by "Hans Jacob Frh. v. vs. Batzendorf." The ceremony took place at Castle Hirschingen which was owned at the time by Baron (Frh. = Baron) Batzendorf. Contrary to what has been reported on the internet and elsewhere, Johann Peter Dieterich nor his sons owned Castle Hirschingen - it was owned by Baron Batzendorf. On 24 September 1690 in Vienna, Leopold I granted Baron Batzendorf the power to grant nobility to individuals. This is what Baron Batzendorf did on 15 Oct 1700 for Johann Peter, Felix Ernst and Wilhelm Emanuel. They were "raised to equal status" as that of Batzendorf; meaning, they were granted the title of "Baron." There is no mention of Johann Peter nor his two sons owning any land. The following additional information can also be found in the Diploma: (1) Johann Peter Dieterich was born in Homberg [Efze], Hessen, Germany. (2) Johann Peter & Sophia Ofener had two sons - Felix Ernst & Wilhelm Emanuel. (3) The parents of Johann Peter were Johann Jost & Anna Marien (nee Stunz). Contained within the Diploma is a detailed description of the Coat of Arms that was bestowed upon Johann Peter & his two sons. Lester Dietterick (les570 at hotmail dot net) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.