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J. G. Arends

Lincolnton, Lincoln County, North Carolina

Marker Inscription

J. G. Arends. Native German, pioneer teacher and minister, ordained 1775, first president of the N.C. Lutheran Synod, 1803. Grave a few yds. east.

Erected by North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources

The Story

Born in Germany, J.G. Arends emigrated to become one of the earliest Lutheran ministers and teachers on the North Carolina frontier, ordained in 1775. In 1803 he helped organize and became the first president of the North Carolina Lutheran Synod. His grave lies a few yards east.

Why it matters

Arends embodies the German immigrant communities that planted enduring religious and educational institutions in the Carolina Piedmont.

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