From http://www.hammerbeer.com/family.php Born 1806 – 3rd Great Grandfather – Zacharias Egger – Muhlehorn, Switzerland (Swiss German) Although his full time profession was an engineer, Zacharias was secretly knows as a great distiller, wine and beer maker. He had a passion and lust for life. He developed strong beer and wine for close family members and friends. Originally this was done merely as a hobby and for his enjoyment. Eventually his recipes gained the admiration of local community members. After the death of his beloved young wife, Elsbeth, Zacharias and his 2 sons immigrated to the United States, arriving in New York in 1856 aboard the ship “Atalanta”. Out of necessity, the family brews beer and wine and sells it to make a living.