I have been researching genealogy for over a decade, with a focus on helping others uncover the deeper stories behind their ancestors. I specialize in translating and interpreting European records—particularly German-language documents—dating back to the 17th century. My work often centers on German Catholic immigrants who settled in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, using Catholic parish records and local histories to trace their origins and migrations.
My approach combines linguistic skill with historical context, allowing me to reconstruct ancestral lives and bring clarity to family narratives. I also have a strong background in military history, including the Civil War, the French & Indian War, and the Napoleonic Wars, which often plays a role in understanding the broader forces that shaped family histories. Whether it’s identifying a forgotten European village or interpreting a centuries-old baptismal record, I aim to turn names and dates into meaningful stories.
I have a BA in English from Thomas More University, where I also studied history and political science.
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About the Blog Name
Wherever the Covington Eiferts gather around the dinner table, they tack on an extra prayer to the standard, “Bless us O Lord…” We also pray, “May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”
The practice began with Paul Eifert Sr., my grandfather. His dad was a Covington policeman killed in the line of duty on February 8, 1946, when Paul was only twelve years old. Ever since, the family finished their meal prayers with one extra, for the repose of Clay’s soul.
It’s traditions like these, along with the stories of our forbears, that give meaning to life in a world that is often quick to dispose of anything that is old or traditional. It’s very easy to take our families for granted, and in the modern world it’s easy to forget they exist.
I view it as vital that we remember our ancestors, the times during which they lived, the sacrifices they made, and the love that they had for their family. That’s why I built this website, and why I continue to study genealogy.
About the Eiferts
While you will find many families written about here, the family at the center of this history is the Eifert family. Specifically, we’re talking about the Eifert family that landed in the U.S. with Michael Eifert in 1837 on the Wanstead carrying Germans from London to New York.
Michael Eifert first settled in Knox County, Ohio, and later moved westward to Mercer County, Ohio near Fort Recovery. His descendants can be found in Ohio, Kentucky, Minnesota, Oregon and California.
While the Eiferts are at the center of this story, you’ll find many other names associated with the family at this blog.
About the Historian
My name is Will Eifert. I was born and raised in northern Kentucky. I graduated from Thomas More College with an English degree in 2011. I work in digital marketing and technology. My wife Crystal and I are raising our five children in Edgewood, Kentucky.