Dean-Hey Heritage

Henry Johnson
(from a daguerreotype)

In 1857 Henry and his brothers ran away to avoid conscription in the army. One brother didn't make it; he was shot climbing the wall. Because there were so many Janssen's, Henry Janssen changed his name to "Johnson" upon arrival in America. (recalled by Ruth Holtzman Hey, granddaughter of Henry Johnson)


Although the original records were lost in a great fire, you can still view Henry's record as a 19 year old immigrant.

Aderikus Janssen & Henry Janssen,
brothers, about 1860

Aderikus & Marie Janssen
Grandpa Henry Johnson's Brother & Wife

Writing on back of photo:
Uncle Born Jan 25, 1843; Aunt Marie Born Dec 25, 1849. Uncle Martin Anderikus Janssen, and our dear Aunt Marie Wertz Janssen. Taken about 1885. Aunt Marie was in Chicago during fire of 1871 working for mailman Klein's (?). Many people perished. Aunt Marie was (?) at Klines, mail carrier. Aunt Marie was the best soul. Went to Germany about 1899.