The Gerber/Garber family name is common in Germany and Switzerland and possibly denotes the occupation of a tanner. Some researchers contend the occupational name derives from gerben (to tan, polish or curry), while others propose the name origin from garben (to gather into sheaves). The family name "Tanner" is generally distinct in Europe, but there have been a few cases of Anglicization from "Gerber" to "Tanner" in America. Similar names, such as "Geber/Gaber/Gaver," "Gruber/Grover," and "Carber/Carver,"
A. Christian GERBER (ca 1705-1769) emigrated 1700-1720 (?), according to Harris (1872); Ellis (1883) claims an immigration date of c 1729, while Keidal (1914) states that Christian was the grandson of an immigrant who arrived "about the year 1695."
AB. Hans GERBER/ GARVER (1700-1748) possibly emigrated in 1726. According to Davis (1994), he was in Coventry Twp., Chester Co., Pa., by 1729, and he was not found on any passenger list between 1727 and 1729. Davis assumed he arrived before 1727.