My understanding is that the "Reformed Church" was a version of Protestantism that was influenced by John Calvin. During the 19th century the government tried to force the traditional Lutheran church into a union with this "Reformed church" - creating a "state church", which I believe was referred to in church records as "Evangelisch". Many Lutherans did not like this forced union, and rebelled. They often worshipped separately as "Old Lutherans", and many immigrated to America. Many immigrated to Wisconsin. If I recall correctly, there was some persecution of them during Bismarck's era. I'm not sure to what extent Hesse was impacted by this, but would love to know more. Sincerely, Katherine