It was indeed to obtain consent to get married.
Adolf Krajenbrink, office worker, wants to marry Maria Catharina Schnitzler, a former maid, now without a profession. Both are living in Steenstraat in Arnhem.
For this she needs proof of the death of her paternal grandfather (Carl Schnitzler), but she doesn't have it. Therefore 4 witnesses are summoned to appear before the local justice of peace, Mr Johan Michiel Roukens, on the 4th of June 1816 in Arnhem.
Witnesses are
1. Johannes Bierhuijs, master shoemaker
2. Adriana Höffgen, housewife of Gerrit Strenger, baker
3. Geertruid Vogel, kitchen maid, widow of Adam Kenshuizen
4. Hendrike de Vries, baker
all living in the Oeverstraat in Arnhem.
The first 3 witnesses declare that they knew Carl Schnitzler well. He was a skipper and lived with his wife for many years in Orsoy (Prussia); 45 years ago he fell from his ship into the Rhine river and drowned. This news had then spread throughout the city, so that his death was a well known fact.
The fourth witness did not know Carl Schnitzler personally, but is certain that the above witnesses are telling the truth. After all, his father, who was in Orsoy at the time, told him the same story.
After this, they all sign the certificate, except for Geertruid Vogel.
