Harriet Thompson and William Forman

Harriet left England in 1853 with her six children on the ship Emma Fields to meet her husband William who had traveled to America before her.

Cholera broke out on board the ship and four of their six children perished.  This was just the beginning of many obstacles they would face in starting their life together in a new country.

The couple was married for over fifty years!  During that time, they would face hardships and challenges, but always met their struggles head on!  Their determination and perseverance to care for family members and themselves was a result of their dedication to one another.

You can learn more about their amazing story at the Franklin Historical museum, 26165 Thirteen Mile Road at Kirk Lane.

Otto Berger

At the age of 9, Otto Berger emigrated from Prussia to America with his family and settled in Southfield Township.

It was here that a love relationship would develop with Rachel Van Every, granddaughter of Colonel Peter Van Every, War of 1812 veteran.

Otto would enlist in the 5^th Michigan Infantry and serve four years. He fought in nearly every major battle and was wounded several times. During that time, he and Rachel would correspond.

In 1865, after the war, they married, settled in Franklin and had nearly a dozen children.