Boltzius, Johann Martin, 1703-1765

Johann Martin Bolzius (1703-1765) was born on December 15, 1703 in the town of Forest in lower Lusatia, Germany. After studying in the Berlin preparatory school, Bolzius received a scholarship to study theology at Halle at the age of 24 years. In 1730, at the age of 27, Bolzius became the vice-inspector of the Latin School connected with the Francke Foundation. In 1733, Bolzius was invited to accompany a group of religious exiles from Salzburg to Georgia and to be their minister. The settlement that Bolzius and his group established was known as Ebenezer. Ebenezer managed to prosper thanks in large part to Bolzius' efforts in obtaining aid from the English and German benefactors. On August 7, 1735, Bolzius married a young parishioner, Gertraut Rohrmoser; they had four children. Bolzius died on November 19, 1765 at the age of 61. The surname "Bolzius" also appears as "Boltzius."

From the description of Johann Martin Bolzius reports and diaries, 1733-1739. (Georgia Historical Society). WorldCat record id: 173482514