The path our Hofheintz ancestors took to get to America was not an easy one. In fact, just the mere decision of whether or not to emigrate had to be heart-wrenching, not to mention dangerous. At various times throughout the early years of budding America, German officials were staunchly against emigration. This stand forced many German natives to flee to Holland where they could obtain safe passage to a new and better life. So appears to have been the case for the Hofheintz family.
The reasons for emigrating in those early days varied from one individual to another; however, the most common among them was primarily freedom, simply stated. Germany was a country in turmoil, and religious and social persecution was the rule rather than the exception. Although it meant leaving behind their homes, their families, and all that they knew, the call of freedom beckoned. In America, they could practice their religion without persecution, they could own land and move freely, they could live a full and meaningful life in their own right.
Below are the emigration and ships lists that document some of the Hofheintz family members' entry into this New World. Not all of these individuals are proven to be the children of Johann Jost Hofheintz and Maria Catharina Opperman, but all are suspected kinsmen/women. Where available, I have listed the entire Passengers Lists for the ships that brought them safely to the shores of the New World. Many thanks to Bruce Huffine for his help in finding the passenger list for the "Brigatine Mary."
