Hi, I'm looking for suggestions about where to look for further info: My immigrant ancestor, Christian Freehafer, arrived in Philadelphia about December 2, 1772 on the Ship Hope, which sailed from Rotterdam via Cowe's England. I suspect he was from Germany, but some Freehafer researchers believe he may have come from Switzerland. Is anyone familiar with the etymology of names to help me determine whether he is of German or Swiss descent. From the time he arrived at Philadelphia up until about 1800-1810 his name was spelled as Friechefer (or Freichefer), Frickheffer, Frickhoever. I am also wondering if/what newspapers are available circa 1772 that might have announced his arrival or indenture and where I might obtain copies of these records. Christian was indentured Dec. 4, 1772 to Joseph Shippen (Phila) and Edward Shippen (Lancaster). Did he have to sign any type of contract/agreement with his masters or with the shipping company? Is so are these contracts available on microfilm somewhere? And, does anyone know if any records exist in Cowe's England that might give clues to his origin? I understand there are no extant records in Rotterdam for this time period. Any help is appreciated. Thanks. Nancy Freehafer ==== PENNA-DUTCH Mailing List ==== Have you visited the webpage associated with this mail list? If not go to http://members.aol.com/PennaDutch/pennadutch.html