Bucks County PA Archives Biographies.....Geil, John
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File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
Joe Patterson, Patricia Bastik & Susan Walters Dec 2009

Source: History of Bucks County, Pennsylvania; edited by 
J.H. Battle; A. Warner & Co.; 1887
New Britain Township


   JOHN GEIL farmer, P.O. Chalfont, was born in Bucks county 
in 1819.  His paternal grandfather came to this country from 
Germany, and was the father of John Geil.  The latter 
married Elizabeth Pretz, by whom he had nine children, eight 
of whom lived to maturity, our subject being the second son. 
 John Geil was a well-known Mennonite preacher; his 
congregation was at Line Lexington.  He was also a 
republican in politics.  He was born in New Britain 
township, April 1, 1778, and died January 9, 1866.  He was 
pastor of the Mennonite church fifty-five years.  He was a 
man of intelligence, read quite a great deal, wrote wills, 
deeds, agreements, etc., yet he went to school but a few 
months.  John Geil, Jr., was born in the house where he now 
lives, and was reared on a farm, remaining there until he 
was 28 years of age.  He married Sarah, daughter of Jesse 
Roe, who bore him three children:  Samuel S., born December 
19, 1857; Mary Frances, born July 31, 1850; and Margaret, 
born October 13, 1853.  His first wife died in 1859, and he 
was again married, in 1862, to Lydia, daughter of Isaac and 
Catherine Strouse, of this county. They have no issue.  Mr. 
Geil has traveled a great deal, and has owned land and 
carried on farming in Ohio and Indiana.  He is a great 
reader, and is well informed on the topics of the day.  He 
is a republican politically.