Nicholas Lutz (military officer) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Nicholas Lotz
Born	February 20, 1740 Germany
Died	November 30, 1807 Reading, Berks County, Pennsylvania
Nationality	German
Other names	Nicholas Lutz
Occupation	Military officer, politician
Known for	Lieutenant colonel, Pennsylvania Militia (American Revolutionary War); member, Pennsylvania General Assembly

Nicholas Lotz, also known as Nicholas Lutz, was an important figure during the American Revolutionary War. Born in Germany, he became a military officer in Pennsylvania. After the war, he served as a politician, representing Berks County in the Pennsylvania General Assembly.

Early Life and Moving to America

Nicholas Lotz was born on February 20, 1740, in a region of Germany called the Palatinate. When he was about 12 years old, around 1752, he moved with his family to America. They settled in the western part of Berks County, Pennsylvania.

Later, Nicholas Lotz moved to the town of Reading. There, he owned and operated two mills. These mills were located near the mouth of the Wyomissing Creek.

Serving in the American Revolution

When the American Revolution began, Nicholas Lotz quickly became involved. He was a strong supporter of the American cause in Berks County. In June 1776, he attended a special meeting in Philadelphia called the Pennsylvania Provincial Conference.

After returning home, he helped recruit soldiers for the war. He was made a lieutenant colonel, which is a high-ranking officer. Lotz and his soldiers joined a special group called the "Flying Camp" Regiment. They traveled from Philadelphia to New York to fight.

Battle of Long Island and Prisoner of War

Nicholas Lotz fought bravely in the Battle of Long Island. This was a major battle during the war. Unfortunately, he was captured by the enemy during the fighting.

He was held as a prisoner for some time. On April 16, 1777, he was allowed to be on "parole." This meant he could move around within certain limits. He was finally set free in a prisoner exchange on September 10, 1779.

Helping the Army with Supplies

Even after being released, Lotz continued to help the American army. In 1780, he was put in charge of getting supplies for the soldiers. This job was called "Commissioner of Forage."

He bought a lot of important supplies for the army. This included flour, oats, cattle, and sheep. He even used his own money to pay for many of these supplies. Sadly, he was never fully paid back by the government for all the money he spent.

Life After the War

After the American Revolutionary War ended, Nicholas Lotz continued to serve his community. He became involved in politics.

Serving in Government

Lotz represented Berks County in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. This is like being a state representative today. He served two terms:

• From 1784 to 1786
• From 1790 to 1794

Later, from 1795 to 1806, he worked as an associate judge for Berks County. He took over this role from another important person, Colonel Joseph Hiester.

Nicholas Lotz passed away in Reading, Pennsylvania, on November 28, 1807. He was buried in the Charles Evans Cemetery in Reading.