Bernardhus Van Leer facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bernardhus Van Leer
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| Born |
Bernardhus Van Leer
1687 near Isenberg, Germany
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| Died | January 26, 1790 (104) |
| Occupation | Physician |
| Title | Dr. |
| Spouse(s) | Mary Branson (1733-1749), Christina Fuls (1750-1790) |
| Children | 14 |
| Parent(s) | Johann George Van Leer, Mary Van Leer |
| Relatives | Samuel Van Leer (son) |
Bernardhus Van Leer (born 1687, died 1790) was an important early settler in Pennsylvania. He came from Germany and became a doctor. He was also the father of Samuel Van Leer, who was a captain in the American Revolutionary War.
Bernardhus Van Leer built his home, the Barnardus Van Leer House, around 1742 in Marple Township, Pennsylvania. He also owned land in Tredyffrin Township, Pennsylvania. Later, his son Isaac built the Van Leer Cabin on this land around 1800.
Life Story of Bernardhus Van Leer
Bernardhus Van Leer was born in 1687 near a place called Isenberg in Germany. His family moved to Pennsylvania when he was 11 years old, in 1698.
As a young man, he went back to Germany to study medicine. After several years of study, he returned to Pennsylvania. There, he started his own medical practice in Chester County. It was unusual at the time, but he only saw patients in his office.
Around 1742, Van Leer built his house in Marple Township, Pennsylvania. His father-in-law helped him with the construction. In 1759, he bought a large piece of land, about 109 acres. This land is now part of Tredyffrin Township, Pennsylvania.
Family Life and Later Years
Bernardhus Van Leer first married Mary Branson. Her father, William Branson, was a rich merchant and a leader in the iron industry. Bernardhus and Mary had five children together.
After Mary passed away, Van Leer married a second time. With his second wife, he had nine more children, making a total of 14 children.
His son, Samuel Van Leer, became a military officer. He fought for the American side during the American Revolutionary War.
Bernardhus Van Leer was known as "the centenarian" because he lived for so long. He stayed healthy even in his old age. People said he could still ride his horse 30 miles between his properties when he was 100 years old!
Sadly, when he was 102, he was hurt by burglars in his home. He never fully recovered from these injuries. Bernardhus Van Leer passed away on January 26, 1790, at the age of 104.
His Lasting Impact
After Bernardhus Van Leer died, his son Isaac built the Van Leer Cabin. This cabin was built on the land in Tredyffrin that Bernardhus had given to Isaac.
