Flohr, George Daniel

Flohr, George Daniel a minister of the Lutheran Church, was a native of Germany, born in 1759. He died in Wytheville, Va., in 1826. He studied medicine in Paris, and was one of the throng that witnessed the execution of Louis XVI. The accidental but tragical death of an individual in the crowd standing near him, part of whose mangled body was thrown upon his person, most deeply affected him, and so operated upon his mind as to lead him to change all his purposes and plans for the future. This was the turning-point in his character. A train of serious thought was awakened which resulted in his conversion, and subsequent consecration to the work of the ministry. Soon after he came to America, and pursued the study of theology under the direction of the Rev. William Carpenter, Madison County, Va. After his licensure to preach the Gospel, he engaged in successful missionary service in south-western Virginia, but subsequently took charge of several congregations in Wythe County, among whom he faithfully labored till his death. Mr. Flohr exercised an extraordinary influence not only upon the members of his church, but upon all classes of society. When difficulties occurred in the community they were always referred to him for adjustment, and from his decision scarcely any one ever thought of an appeal. The basis of this influence was the unlimited confidence which every one had in his personal worth and Christian integrity. So far as his professional engagements allowed, Mr. Flohr was devoted to study. His acquaintance with the German and French was extensive and thorough, and his attainments in Latin and Greek considerable. The only work of his ever published was a posthumous volume of sermons. (M. L. S.)