Celebrating 200 Years: Perry County Honors Legacy of Pioneer Blacksmith Johann Bodenschatz

Today, Perry County celebrates the 200th birthday of Johann Erdman Gottfried Bodenschatz, a notable blacksmith whose work significantly impacted the local community. Born on May 12, 1824, in Gefell, Germany, Bodenschatz later moved to Perry County from Germany.

His family name first appeared in local records between 1846 and 1849, when he moved to the area with his wife, Johanne Christiane Friedericke Wachter, and their children. The Bodenschatz and Wachter families became well-known in towns like Altenburg, New Wells, and Uniontown.

In Altenburg, Bodenschatz established himself as a blacksmith by 1860, supporting his family and contributing to the community's growth. During the Civil War, he served in the Union Army, showing his dedication to his adopted country.

Beyond his blacksmithing, Bodenschatz helped found the Immanuel Lutheran Church in 1857 after leaving Trinity Lutheran Church. His active participation in community and church affairs indicates his deep integration into local life.

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