The Behnkes


In dedication to my grandfather, Elmer Behnke, 1902-1989

For those who lived in Wynantskill and Greenbush in the 1900's, you may very well remember his love for pansies and mostly likely, bought his big, beautiful pansies to decorate your gardens.

 

Elmer's father, Herman Behnke came to New York in 1882 from Germany.  He was born in 1855.  He was a carpenter, making wagons and tools by trade.  He married Emma Yachick Frei around 1899.  Herman Behnke and Emma Yachick had two children:


1. Lil' Benhke, born 1900.

2. Elmer Herman Behnke, born 1902.

 

Herman died in 1910, leaving behind his wife and children.  He and his wife, Emma and son Elmer are buried in the Eagle Mills Cemetery in Brusnwick.


Elmer married Alida C. Folderman and they had two children:
1. Mae Emma Behnke, deceased 1995

2. Elsie Behnke


For more information on the Foldermans, Click here

Relatives of the Behnkes -some in Germany

Do you recognize this photo taken in Berlin, mid 1800's?

Nephews of Herman Behnke,

There is no date on this photo, nor no names - a note "Mackenburgh" written on the back.  Presumed these boys stayed in Germany.



  The Yachicks

 



Emma's Parents were Paul and Mary Yachick below.


These photos were taken late 1800's. Both Paul & Mary were born in Germany in 1823, but emmigrated to New York. They resided in Brunswick, on Creek Road, Rennselaer County.
Paul and Mary had the following children:
1. William Yachick
2. Mary Yachick Goetz married Fred Goetz.
3. Amelia Yachick Reckner
4. Emma Hoffay Yachick b 1865, Brunswick, New York



1. William had two children, Minnie Yachick and Charlie Yachick, though I do not know of William's wife. These families moved to Cedar Falls, Iowa.


2. Mary married Fred Goetz. They lived near Troy, New York.


3. Amelia married George Reckner, I believe, and they had a son, William Reckner.


4. Emma Yachick Frei Behnke, see above.

Emma was previously married to Hermon Frei. They had three children: Bertha Frei, Hermon Frei, Jr. (b&d 1885) and another infant, Leslie Frei, (b & d 1892). All lived in Brunswick. Hermon Frei was born 1845 in Switzerland, died in 1897 in Brunswick, New York. He had a brother Joseph Frei.

Bertha Frei married Neil Foley.

 

To the right:  Bertha and Neil on their honeymoon

 

By the time 1910, Emma lost two children and two husbands.  She never remarried.  She died in 1942.



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Page updated June 20, 1998


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