In the process of tracing Simons, I have come across a John Simmons in Hogestown in the 1886 Hy of Cumberland and Adams Cty. Since my Simons were in Landisburg/Tyrone Cty (19 miles away) during the early 1800s, I am interested in the following entry, which will explain the ECKERT connection. "JOHN SIMMONS, farmer, P.O. Hogestown. The Simmons family originated in Germany, and immigrated to this country at an early date. George Simmons, a farmer by occupation and the father of John was born near the line of Dauphin and Lebanon counties, Penn. He married Miss Elizabeth Eckert, daughter of John Eckert, of the same locality. To them were born six children: Catherine, John, Jacob, George, Samuel and Elizabeth. About 1824, the father moved to and settled in this county. He was a Republican in political opinions, a hardworking and upright man. John Simmons, our subject was brought to this county by his parents when he was a child. He grew up on the farm, and received a common school education..." I wonder if the Geo referenced could be my ggggrandfather b abt 1797, served in War of 1812.