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Note: The sponsors at Abraham Lerch's baptism were Abraham Lerch and Elisabeth Kromer. Abraham Lerch was educated in the local school in Allen Twp. and reared on his father's farm until he became 14 years old, when he entered the store of his uncle, Abraham Lerch, and served as a clerk and assistant until 1840. Then he became partner which he continued until 1853 when he became the sole owner. In 1879 he formed a partnership with his sons, George H. and James M., and they traded together as Lerch & Company for many years. He was also extensively engaged in the manufacture and sale of roofing slate in Lehigh Twp. He officiated as a justice of the peace for a number of terms and was a member of the state legislature from 1878 to 1882. He was a member of the Reformed Church, serving as deacon, elder and trustee.
In 1850 A. W. Lerch, age 35 a merchant, was living in Lehigh Twp., Northampton Co., PA with his wife, Mary Lerch age 31, and four Lerch children; Sarah age 8, Amanda age 6, George H. age 5, and James age 3. Also listed in their household was S. Lynn age 22, a laborer. Abraham owned real estate valued at $2,000. (1850 census, microfilm roll #803, Northampton Co., PA, Lehigh Twp., pg. 317, house #47)
In 1880 Abraham W. Lerch, age 65 a dry goods merchant, was living in Lehigh Twp., Northampton Co., PA, with his wife, Mary A. Lerch age 60. There were no other individuals listed in their household.
(1880 census, National Archives Film T9-1162, Page 78B)
The date of birth inscribed on Abraham's tombstone in Zion Church cemetery is 9 October 1814. However, the church record of his baptism shows he was born 10 October 1814.
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