I found a website for the town some of my ancestors are from, Brotdorf (near Merzig). I received a partial translation of the site from Germany. I wondered if anyone knew any history of the area. The article mentioned 20 housekeepings win 1632. Then down to 4 housekeepings after a "threeßigjährigen" war. Back to 17 housekeepings in 1684. I believe the REINERT family was in Brotdorf from before 1710 to 1847. Was this area under constant warfare, or a peaceful farm community? Also interested in the town of Britten. Lauri Researching REINERT, HOLZ, BALTUS, WEISEN in Brotdorf Researching SCHUTZ, ZEHREN, MINNINGER in Britten