Historical note

Dietrich Gaeddert was born 2 March 1837 at Alexanderwohl, Molotschna Colony, Russia. He taught school for 11 years in Paulsheim, Rückenau, and Fürstenwerder. On 14 December 1867 he was elected minister of the Alexanderwohl congregation. In 1874 Gaeddert became the leader of a group of Alexanderwohl migrants to America and settled near Inman, Kansas. He organized the Hoffnungsau Mennonite Church and became the congregation's elder in 1876. He served the group until his death. Gaeddert assisted in the founding of Bethel College, and was on the College's board of directors. He also served the Home Mission Committee of the Western District Conference, USA. He died 31 December 1900.