Hacke, Nicholas Philip (1800-1878)

Nicholas P. Hacke, Jr. was born September 20, 1800 in Baltimore, Maryland to parents Nicholas P. and Sophia Hacke. At the age of six he was sent to Bremen, Germany where he was to be educated in the German language and literature while living with his grandmother. In 1816 he returned to the United States and studied under the Rev. Dr. Christian L. Becker in Baltimore and later the Rev. Dr. J. C. Becker in Friedensville, Lehigh County, PA. After preaching at several locations in Westmoreland County in 1819, he returned to Friedensburg and was licensed and ordained September 9, 1819 by the Synod at Lancaster, PA. In October, 1819 he began his pastorate in the Greensburg Charge, which consisted of Greensburg, Harrold's and Brush Creek congregations. At times he also served the following congregations: Ridge; Ligonier; Youngstown; Hills; Seanors; Manor, all in Westmoreland County. He remained in Greensburg for 58 years until ill health forced his retirement . He died at his home in Greensburg August 25, 1878, at the age of 77. He was married to Miss Hugus early in life and had several sons and daughters. His wife preceded him in death by several years. Several children survived him. Sources: Fathers of the Reformed Church, v.5, p.300-306; personal vertical file.