Norwegian American Genealogical Summer 2020 Center & Naeseth Library Volume 43, Number 2 NAGC to Unveil New Look NAGC is excited to show off its new look. The extensive project, Bygg for Fram- tiden, kicked off last fall. Although construction is not yet entirely complete, large strides have been made. The bathrooms, flooring, front desk, infrastructure, and the elevator shaft are essentially ready. “All we have left for the most part is to move in and decorate,” Executive Director Dana Kelly stated. The new floor plan is much more open and the arrangement of the furniture will allow for much more ambient lighting in the library. “It will really be much more inviting to come and research in this space,” Ms. Kelly continued. “Not to mention that it will be comfortable and accessible to all of our visitors.” (See photos on next page.) In spite of the pandemic, construction has proceeded with few delays. However, fundraising has fallen a bit short. Board member, Paul Berge, has issued a chal- lenge to NAGC’s membership: he will match dollar for dollar each gift received INSIDE THIS ISSUE between now and December 31, 2020, up to $25,000. “The staff and I are in- Bygg for Framtiden ...... 2 credibly grateful for Paul’s generosity,” Ms. Kelly continued. “But he can’t do it An Immigrant’s Sacrifice alone. We all need to put our oars in the water.” Resonates with her De- scendant ...... 3 NAGC is Now Affiliate to FHL ...... 5 Left: Doors Carol Culbertson Retires .. 6 painted by 2020 Genealogy Classes ... 7 renowned Norwegian Librarian’s Corner ...... 9 artist, Sig- Farewell from David and mund Jeanne Wright ...... 10 Aarseth, 2019 Annual Report ...... 15 hang in the entry stair- way.
Bygg for Framtiden
By Gary Smithback, Board Vice Chair and Facilities Committee Co- Chair
As we enter the final stages of the Bygg for Framtiden (Building for the Future) project, I would like to both reflect on the process and give thanks to all those who contributed to making these improvements to our facility.
The Facilities Committee first began discussion of this project in the Fall of 2017. Built in the 1950’s, the NAGC building was first occupied as a genealogical center in 1992. The Center realized a pressing need in 2017 to make the second floor classroom fully accessible and ADA com- pliant and began planning for construction of an elevator, new work stations with modern lighting and electrical outlets, new reception area, Above and Below: Former library interior and ADA accessible restrooms. In September 2019, along with the NAGC Board, we established a budg- etary goal of $600,000 for the project. Over the course of remodeling, we realized additional needs and added thoughtful, yet affordable, up- grades to the project and remained within our expected overages. In spite of the unforeseen affects of the pandemic which included material availability, the necessary additional safety measures added for contrac- tors, and increased wait times for inspection scheduling, the project will be completed within the original timeline. In addition to the accessibility and modernizing upgrades, there are several unique and artistic additions to the library. As you enter, you will find a brightly illuminated foyer adorned with Sigmund Aarseth rosemaled panels and stunning new Donor Recognition Wall. You will be welcomed at a Carley Wood-designed Viking ship-themed reception desk, to the left of which you will find our long-anticipated elevator. All these upgrades will substantially improve the functionality of the library for both our staff and patrons.
We have had an outstanding experience with our General Contractor, Bauer Builders, and their staff. Joseph Hanson, Project Manager, coor- dinated the subcontractors and the construction schedule and worked closely with our architect, Dana, and me. Cris Nelson, our Jobsite Su- pervisor, provided invaluable expertise and attention to detail that dovetailed with our needs and budget. In spite of the unexpected pan- demic disruption, Bauer Builders made every effort to allow us to stay open during construction. Both Joseph and Cris played a huge role in Above and Below: Current library interior keeping the project running smoothly, and we are very grateful for their contributions.
If you would like to contribute to the success of this exciting project, please consider a gift in the enclosed envelope.
2 An Immigrant’s Sacrifice Resonates with her Descendant
By Frank Delaney If you were to ask John Thompson to try to distinguish between his Norwegian heritage and his childhood growing up in a rural farming community in eastern Wisconsin, he would probably have a hard time telling you the difference. “It was sort of like you transplanted Norway to Valders,” John remembers with a smile. Indeed, after speaking with John, who is now the Chairman of the Board of Directors at NAGC & NL, it became clear that the history of the area in which he grew up and his family genealogy are inextricably linked by their common Norwegian roots. Valders, Wisconsin is a small village to the west of Manitowoc. Founded by Norwegian immigrants hailing from the Valdres Valley of Oppland (modern day Innlandet) County in south-central Norway, the village derives its name from the land of its founders’ forefathers. The Valders area was settled in the 1840’s by ambitious farming families looking to take advantage of the land in the area, which was vastly more affordable and fertile, once the grueling work of clearing the trees (and removing the stumps!) was finished, than what was available in their homeland. The area remained an unincorporated agricultural com- munity until well into the late 19th century until the Wisconsin Central Railroad completed the first railroad to run through the area in 1895. Necessary construction of the railroad’s local depot prompted the need to name this new place, which after some deliberation was chosen to be Valders, the name of one of the area’s original churches. Businesses soon started to spring up around the new economic hub, and the village of Valders was officially incorporated under Wisconsin law in 1919. Among the leaders of the first group of Norwegian immigrants to settle the Valders area were John’s ancestors. Stefen Olsen Helle was the original explorer of the family, John says. Along with his younger brother Ole, Stefen traveled from Norway to the Wisconsin Territory in 1846. The two found work as carpenters in Port Washington and spent the next year exploring the yet unsettled land to the north. They especially favored the land west of the village of Manitowoc Rapids, which would one day become Valders, and they picked out several locations in that area that would be suitable for settlement. By Christmas of 1847, they had returned home to Vang in Valdres, eager to share their stories of exploration and encourage their kin and country- men to consider joining them in starting a new life in America. The Valdres Valley is one of Norway’s traditional districts, located roughly halfway between Bergen and Oslo. Today, the region of roughly 2,000 square miles is a part of Innlandet County, which was created on January 1, 2020 by the merger of Oppland and Hedmark Counties. The name Valdres is derived from the Old Norse words völlr and dres, which mean “a mountain- ous plain” and “a cleaved road,” respectively. A valley made up of lush, water -abundant meadows bordered by mountains on either side, with Norway’s tallest peaks, the Jotunheimen, to the northwest, and the formidable Gol mountain range to the south, Valdres is known, even by high Norwegian standards, for its spectacular natural beauty. This natural beauty has made tourism the primary form of economic activity in recent times, but for centu- ries prior, Valdres was predominantly an agricultural society. This relatively recent economic shift has a simple explanation - although farming was the area’s historical method of self-sustenance, that does not mean the land itself was actually suitable for agriculture. This is something John’s ancestors knew and experienced all too well. “If you had a 100 acre farm,” John explains, “you might have one tillable acre - the ground was all granite and rock.” Indeed, the difficult landscape, compounded by other negative factors, such as over population and damp summer weather, had for generations made living off the land in Valdres a nearly impossible ven- ture. This suffering had been the catalyst for the Helle brothers’ original expedi- tion to Wisconsin in 1846. When their letters returned home, detailing the promise which this new land held, friends and family in Valdres began pre- paring for their own departures to America, including Stefen’s older brother, Thomas Olsen Helle and John’s great-great grandfather, Thomas. Continued on page 8
3 GREETINGS FROM THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
2020 has not been the year most of us expected. However, we are excited to unveil the newly-remodeled Naeseth Library this summer. The NAGC board and staff are looking forward to greeting you and giving you a tour of the facilities. Thanks to the generosity of our membership, the Naeseth Li- brary will be a modern and comfortable asset for the entire Nor- wegian-American community. Internet connections to updated work stations will be user-friendly for many of our older constit- uents. The installation of the elevator is making the entire build- ing much more accessible; better lighting, new shelving, and bathrooms are all contributing to a wonderful new and sustaina- Above, 2020 NAGC Board Officers L to R: Gary Smithback (Vice Chair), ble research environment. John Thompson (Chair), Paul Berge (Treasurer), Ken Larson (Secretary)
The Board of Directors decided to proceed with the project ciated interest in the future. While many of you have already throughout the pandemic since we had already secured support committed to this project, I hope you will consider adding to for two thirds of the project. We have also benefitted from your pledge or donation to participate in this challenge. For CARES Act funding to subsidize operations, as well as private those of you who haven’t yet contributed, I hope you will consid- contributions that nearly balance our 2020 operating budget. Of er accepting Paul’s challenge. Please join me in thanking him by course, personal research visits were ceased for several weeks supporting his generous initiative. this winter and spring, but requests for research assistance were NAGC’s future is so bright, with our dynamic, new Executive handled via our website, phone, and email. Director and our improved facilities. Please join our efforts to I am now delighted to tell you that in response to our current maintain and improve this great research facility by sending in a shortfall for the renovation project, NAGC Board member Paul new donation in the enclosed envelope. Berge has just issued a matching challenge grant to all of us. I want to invite you to participate in this exciting John W. Thompson challenge. Paul will match dollar for dollar all new pledges and/ or gifts received before December 31, 2020 up to Board Chairman $25,000. If we can meet his generous challenge, this will pro- vide a total of $50,000 in new funds for the project and help complete the construction without adding any debt and its asso-
Norwegian Tracks
Published two times per year by Norwegian American Genealogical serial publication and reprint rights, but releases all other rights for Center & Naeseth Library (NAGC &NL) subsequent publication back to the author or artists. 415 W. Main Street The Norwegian American Genealogical Center & Naeseth Library is Madison, WI 53703-3116 an educational nonprofit research center with national and interna- Sent to members of NAGC & NL tional scope. The Center collects, preserves, shares, and interprets resources for the study of Norwegian heritage. The purpose of the publication is to assist and encourage genealogists To carry out this mission, the Center provides: with Norwegian and Norwegian-American genealogical questions. The Naeseth Library, located in Madison, where resources devot- Norwegian Tracks is the sole possession of NAGC & NL. All rights ed to Norwegian and Norwegian-American genealogy are collect- are reserved. No reproduction by mechanical or other means without ed, preserved, shared and interpreted; written permission from the editor. We endeavor to respect copyright in a manner consistent with our nonprofit educational mission. Assistance, interpretation, education, and research by trained Letters concerning genealogical inquiries for Norwegian Tracks staff to members, patrons, and correspondents; should be sent to Norwegian American Genealogical Center & Continuing education and outreach for genealogists and the pub- Naeseth Library (NAGC & NL) 415 W. Main Street, Madison, WI lic worldwide through cooperative information exchanges, publi- 53703-3116 cations, tours, displays, seminars, and merchandise sales. Norwegian Tracks occasionally solicits or accepts unsolicited copy NAGC & NL is open to the public Monday-Friday from 10:00 a.m. to and artwork for publication. Written material is subject to editing for 5:00 p.m. Please call for an appointment to ensure staff availability length, grammar, and accuracy of content. As a rule, no compensation and record accessibility at 608-255-2224 or email at genealo- will be given for any accepted material. NAGC & NL reserves first [email protected]. 4 NAGC IS NOW AFFILIATE TO FAMILY HISTORY COVID-19 VISITOR POLICY LIBRARY Your health and the health of the NAGC staff and volunteers is very important to us. The Naeseth Library is open to visitors, but we are asking our visitors to take extra precautions until further notice.
Appointments are required in order to ensure the ability to maintain proper physical It is undisputed that the Family History Library (FHL) in Salt Lake City is one of distancing. You can schedule the finest genealogy libraries in the world. The vastness of their physical and an appointment by calling online holdings has made it a dream destination for genealogy enthusiasts. NAGC at (608) 255-2224 or sending an email to genealo- However, not everyone has the time or ability to travel to Salt Lake City. The good [email protected] news is NAGC visitors can now access many of FHL’s online records from the Naeseth Library. All visitors and staff must wear a mask. If you forget to “I am really excited about NAGC being an affiliate of the Family History Library,” bring yours, we have them reports Executive Director Dana Kelly. “So many of our members can benefit from available for your conven- the online collection held by FHL. As our members prepare for the genealogy trip ience. to Salt Lake City in 2021, it’s important for them to access as much information as possible before they travel to maximize their research time at the Family History Hand sanitizer is available Library.” right inside our entrance. Many genealogy researchers have used the FHL website (www.familysearch.org). If you are feeling ill, have a It is important to remember that not all of the FHL digital collection can be ac- cough, or are running a fever, cessed from every PC. Hundreds of thousands of records are only available at FHL please reschedule your visit or one of its affiliates. for when you are feeling well. Although most of the accessible records are not necessarily related to Norwegian genealogy, access to those collections are still valuable to many of NAGC’s mem- If you are uncomfortable bers. “We’re not all 100% Norwegian,” Ms. Kelly reminds us. “It’s not unusual for visiting the library, you are our members to be accompanied by a non-Norwegian spouse when they visit the welcome to submit research Naeseth Library. Having online records accessible to the non-Norwegian compan- and translation requests to ions of our visitors increases the value of the experience for everyone.” us through our website, email, mail, or telephone. In order to access the additional FHL records, NAGC members simply need to visit the Naeseth Library and use NAGC’s wireless internet connection on their own Curbside pick up is available device or use the designated PC available to visitors in the library. Per the agree- for members who would like ment with FHL, visitors must be at the Naeseth Library to access the additional to buy a map, greeting cards, online material. and other merchandise. “I really hope our members will take advantage of this new service as a part of The NAGC staff will be cleaning their membership,” Ms. Kelly added. “Familysearch.org grows every day. This re- frequently touched surfaces source gets better every time I log on.” throughout the day to protect the health of our members. For more information about the vast resources available through the Family Search website, visit the Family Search Wiki, which contains over 90,000 helpful Thank your for your cooperation. articles about family history research: We are excited to welcome visi- tors again to our library and are https://www.familysearch.org/wiki/en/Main_Page looking forward to helping you with your research.
5 NAGC SERVICES: Carol Culbertson Retires Library Resources: The By Frank Delaney Naeseth Library is open daily for use by members and non- Carol Culbertson had always been aware of members. her Norwegian roots through her mother’s family. However, growing up during the Research: The NAGC staff 1950’s in Belvidere and Rockford, Illinois as conducts genealogical research one of three girls in a busy household, Carol upon request using our collection recalls that her family did not always “do and resources from other sources much Norwegian.” “One time,” Carol remem- including libraries, state reposito- bers, “the family decided we were going to ries, and historical societies. have a Norwegian Christmas dinner. Great grandma, Grandma and my Mother fixed Research Assistance: W e pro- lutefisk and other traditional Norwegian vides assistance to patrons visiting dishes my great grandfather described to the library. them. Well, let’s say they tried to fix lutefisk. We had a wonderful meal – without the fish.” Translation: We offer transla- tion of documents including letters Luckily for NAGC & NL, Carol’s rocky introduction to the classic Norwegian dish and book excerpts from Norwegian did not quell her strong interest in Norwegian heritage, culture, and genealogy. dialects and Dano-Norwegian to After moving to Madison in 1971, when her husband Steve was transferred by English. Monroe Business Machine Company, Carol became involved with NAGC and found her passion for the detective work of genealogy. She started in 1983 as an DNA Results: We offer consul- unpaid volunteer researcher with what was then the Vesterheim Norwegian tation and assistance with inter- American Genealogical Center and Naeseth Library, and moved on to hold vari- preting and using your DNA results ous positions at NAGC, including paid researcher, assistant director, executive for genealogy. director, and senior researcher. Carol retired for the second time in early 2020, making her tenure at the organization span the course of nearly 40 years. Classes: We offer family histo- ry classes at the Naeseth Library Carol was first introduced to the discipline of genealogy while acting out another Ostby Education Center and online one of her passions - being a mother. The year was 1979, and Carol’s sons, Scott (see next page) and Todd, were participating in a genealogy project through a Madison area 4-H club. In the process of tracing back their family history, the boys discovered that Workshops: We customize their father’s family had originally settled in nearby McFarland, Wisconsin in the workshops for family reunions, 1850’s. Carol would take the boys to the cemeteries in McFarland to search for Sons of Norway Lodges, Lags and clues pointing towards their family history, and in the process of helping, caught other groups. the genealogy bug herself. She helped the boys uncover several major genealogi- cal findings on their dad’s side, such as an ancestor who served in the Civil War, NAGC FEE SCHEDULE: and another who emigrated to McFarland from the Voss region of Norway in 1856. Members: Daily Use No Charge After the boys finished their project, Carol Researcher $35/hour began to research her own ancestry and Translator $35/hour continued to reap in exciting findings. DNA Consultation$35/hour Using the Wisconsin State Historical Soci- Classes $125/class ety resources, she was able to locate and trace her English heritage all the way back Non-Members: to several ancestors who settled in colonial Daily Use $15/day New England, and at least three who actu- Researcher $60/hour ally fought in the Revolutionary War. Translator $60/hour These findings motivated Carol to contin- DNA Consultation$60/hour ue her research, but when she turned to Classes $150/class investigate her Norwegian ancestry on her mother’s side, she found the path shroud- Contact us to discuss charges for your ed in more mystery. custom workshop. Edith, Duane, Hazel, Dawn, Continued on page 10 and Chris Skagen, ca. 1902 6 2020 Genealogy Classes Also Online 2020 Has given all of us reasons to be creative with how we BEGINNING GENEALOGY stay in touch. NAGC is no exception. The genealogy classes offered each summer will still be held on the same dates, but July 27-28, 2020- 9:00 a.m., $125 member/$150 non- similar classes will also be offered online. member (in-person) “The COVID-19 pandemic has forced people to get comforta- August 4-5, 2020– 10:00 a.m., $125 member/$150 non- ble with remote learning, and I think it’s a good time for member (online) NAGC to explore this option for our summer classes,” states If you are just beginning your family history research, or Executive Director, Dana Kelly. “We also want our members have some experience with genealogical research but have to feel that we are taking their safety seriously and decided little or no experience with Norwegian genealogy or Norwe- that in 2020 our in-person classes will be limited to a small- gian genealogical records, this class is for you! Topics cov- er number of people, and we will also offer classes online for ered in the class include common genealogical records for those who are unable to visit us in Madison this summer.” Norwegian and Norwegian-American genealogy, Norwegian “As our members become more comfortable gathering in naming customs, and locating your ancestor’s Norwegian groups, we intend to lift the size restrictions for our classes birthplace. in 2021,” Ms. Kelly continued. “That is, provided we feel that it is safe for our members to gather in a larger class- room setting.” WRITING YOUR FAMILY HISTORY August 10-11, 2020– 9:00 a.m., $125 member/$150 non- For those who choose to participate in the online classes, a member (in-person) link and all class materials will be emailed in advance. The class will still be interactive so there will be opportunity for This class is offered to those who would like to write their questions and discussion. “This won’t just be a recording. family histories in a way that is clear, enjoyable, and perma- The classes will be live and offer opportunities for interac- nent. This class will also allow time for research in the tion with us,” Ms. Kelly explained. “We are excited about Naeseth Library. expanding our reach outside of our Madison-area mem- bers.” SHARING YOUR FAMILY HISTORY Online class content will vary slightly from their in-person counterparts. Since the in-person sessions will take place at August 17-18, 2020– 10:00 a.m., $125 member/$150 non- the Naeseth Library, there will be opportunity for students member (online) to research using the NAGC collection with the aid of staff. This class focuses on several ways to share family history. The online sessions will have additional content related to Topics covered will include writing and publishing, social the course topic. media, and ideas for engaging younger generations. The in-person classes will be offered by veteran Norwegian genealogy researcher, Jerry Paulson. The online classes will be led by Dana Kelly and Michael Knudson.
TO REGISTER:
Left: Beginning ge- www.nagcnl.org nealogy class, 2018 608-255-2224 [email protected]
7 IMMIGRANT SACRIFICE (CONTINUED) (Continued from page 3) Thomas’ interest in leaving his homeland is a true testament to how difficult it was to make a living farming in Valdres. He was the eldest brother in his family, which by Norwegian custom meant that he, and he alone, had inherited the family farm after their father, Ole Tomasson Bergei, passed away at the early age of 48. “Typically this was a system built to enrich one person, and the other members of the family had to find something else to do,” says John. That is why when he began to learn more about his family’s past. John did not understand why anyone who was lucky enough to own a farm in Norway would sell it to move to Wisconsin and, as he put it, “hack a living out of the forest of the land.” That was, until he had the chance to actually visit the Valdres Valley on a trip to Norway. With the help of a local genealogist, John was able to find the Helle farm in Vang, and quickly he was able to understand the logic in Thomas’ decision. According to John, “it was basically a granite hillside.” So, when in the spring of 1848 Stefen set out for a second time to the new world, leading a group of his country- men to Wisconsin. Thomas, his wife, Kari Eivindsdatter Hoyme, and their four children were among them. The caravan journeyed first to Bergen, and then set out aboard the sailing vessel Drafna for New York. Eleven weeks later, when they reached New York, they transferred from Drafna to a steam boat which took them first up the Hudson River to Albany, and then up the Erie Canal to Buffalo, New York. On the final nautical leg of their journey, they boarded a ship bound for Port Washington, Wisconsin via the Great Lakes, and arrived around the beginning of August, 1848 - roughly three and half months after they had originally set out from home. From there, the group went north to the yet unclaimed land that Stefen and Ole had scouted on their first trip to Wisconsin. At $1.25 per acre, Thomas and Kari purchased 80 acres of undeveloped forest 10 miles west of Manitowoc Rapids, where they began their new lives in America together with their children. Once Stefen had facilitated the successful establishment of his fellow pioneers in the area that would become Valders, his mind turned towards home. In 1851, he returned to Vang in Valdres, Norway to bring his mother, Marit Stefendatter Brekken, and his fiancé, Marit Nilsdatter Fylken-Alfstad, to the new home he had prepared for them in Wisconsin. Upon his return, he learned that even more people wanted to make the journey to America, so he agreed to lead another group of Norwegian immigrants, in addition to his family, to Wisconsin. Little did he know that his prior success could in no way predict the disaster that would soon befall them. The group set out from Bergen in the spring of 1852, and by August they had reached Buffalo, New York after the transatlantic crossing and journey up the Erie Canal. The three were set to finish the final stage of the jour- ney, the Great Lakes voyage, when on the foggy evening of August 20 they set foot aboard the Atlantic, bound for Milwaukee. The ship set out, but after it had made it well out into the lake, the Atlantic was rammed in its hull by the Ogdensburg, a propeller ship also headed for the Welland Canal. Though the Ogdensburg sustained no threatening damage, within minutes panic ensued aboard the Atlantic as the ship quickly began to go down. Fully clothed and in the middle of the night, people began to jump overboard into cold, dark Lake Erie, and soon the water was filled with people desperate to keep their heads above water. Somehow, Stefen, his fiancé, and his mother, Marit, managed to stick together as they were forced into the water. Struggling to stay afloat, they found themselves a piece of floating debris strewn about from the wreck, clinging to it for life. After some time in the water, it must have become apparent that the collective weight of three people would be too much for their lifeline to handle. Realizing this, Marit, Stefen’s mother, said, “We can’t all be saved,” and decided to let go - sacrificing herself for the young couple. Of the 134 Norwegian immigrants whom Stefen had been leading to Wis- consin, his mother, Marit Stefendatter Brekken, was one of the many to drown that night amid the wreck of the Atlantic. Stories have long been told that the captains of the two ships had a feud which led to the Og- Thomas Helle’s headstone in West densburg ramming the Atlantic, but this has never fully been substanti- Valders Cemetery ated. What we do know is that after such a traumatic and life alter- Continued on page 13 8
Librarian’s Corner By Sigrid Kolstø Han- for staff to make improvements to the organization of sen the library. Here is one change that is in the process of being made: As the library special- ist at NAGC, I want to Books are being shelved from “A” to “Å” (Not reach out to our mem- from “A” to “Z”) bers and other Tracks As many of the readers know, the Norwegian alpha- readers with infor- bet contains three additional letters to the English mation and ideas from alphabet: After “X,” “Y,” and “Z,” “Æ,” “Ø,” and “Å” the Naeseth Library follow. We are now in the pro- through this column. cess of shelving library items So what kind of news according to the Norwegian can possibly be coming out of a library? Well, at alphabet, starting with the times, probably not a lot other than highlighting bygdebøker (also known as books and other items that sit on the shelves for you bygdeboks or bygdebooks). to use for your research or for other information. What this means is that if you Sometimes, I may have news to share about how we are looking for a book about a organize the items in the library, or tips on ways to geographical place in Norway improve your searches through our online catalog. beginning with one of the Norwegian letters “Æ,” “Ø,” or As reflected in other articles in this issue of Tracks, “Å,” you will need to look for the entire library is currently under construction. this book at the end of the Most of our library items are -- at the time of this alphabet. writing -- in storage. This will have to be the case un- til our brand new bookshelves have been assembled Remember: there will always be staff members you can ask in the newly remodeled library. Above: New spine label on a for help! bygdebok using the new call This renovation is in itself “big news” -- also from a number with Norwegian letters library perspective -- as this is a golden opportunity
THINKING OUTSIDE THE (BYGDE) BOX The Naeseth Library (NL) contains an impressive collection of Wisconsin, they had three more children, with Thurine being the bygdebøker, especially when you consider that they are hard to first of those born in America. get ahold of outside of Norway. We at NAGC sometimes refer to Something that stood out to me about this particular immigrant these local history books as our “jewels.” Naturally, this is pri- story was that Thurine’s parents were doing quite well back in marily because of the valuable genealogical information that can Norway and didn’t seem to lack anything. They made a choice to be found in those books. move to America after many of their close Norwegian relatives However, we have more than bygdebøker in our collection, and had left several years earlier. The tale of the “golden opportuni- this time I want to highlight a section in the library that may help ties in the promised land” had certainly reached Thorild and our members understand the story behind the names and Mathis through their relatives who had left before them. Howev- birthdates that are listed in genealogical records. er, as opposed to most Norwegian emigrants at that time, it did not seem like it was despair that drove them away from their “Wisconsin My Home,” by Erna Oleson Xan, was recommended homeland. to me by a relative, Bob. He took special interest in this book be- cause the narrator in the story, Thurine Olsen, grew up with her Only the first short section of the book is devoted to the family’s Norwegian immigrant parents in Winchester, Wisconsin, which life in Norway, followed by their journey to and settlement in is the same area in which Bob grew up (admittedly almost hun- Wisconsin. However, the descriptions of their Telemark farm and dred years later). the stories about the lives they led there are very detailed and vivid. In fact, it felt as if I could see and smell the surroundings of Although written by Xan, the story is told from the perspective of the area and even taste the Norwegian food! It is all talked about her mother, Thurine, and therefore is written in the first person. very fondly, and as I was reading this section of the book, I be- Thurine’s parents, Thorild and Mathis, came over from Telemark, came increasingly curious about how the American experience Norway, in 1866 with their seven children. After they arrived in would turn out for them Continued on page 10
9 THINKING OUTSIDE THE (BYGDE) BOX (CONT.)
Continued from page 9 given that they were seemingly so content and happy in their homeland. In the following section of the book, we learn of the family’s transition to the new land and how this is experienced - especially by Thurine’s mother, Thorild. As a reader, we obviously do not learn about Thorild’s story firsthand. However, we get enough second-hand information through her daughter to understand that she is terribly homesick despite being surrounded by relatives. The remainder of the book is a collection of stories from Thurine’s happy upbringing including church, courtship, interactions with neighbors and relatives -- and, of course, cooking! I suspect that different readers of this book will cherish different sections depending on their background and interests. However, whichever chapter you choose to focus on, you will find environments and people described with lots of details, and I “betcha” many of you with Norwegian immigrant background (especially from Wis- consin) will feel familiarity with the environment, social culture and traditions in this story. And to top it off: In the back of the book, you will find genealogical charts of the fam- ily!
CAROL CULBERTON RETIRES (CONT.) Continued from page 6 Madison delegation to Norway. It was on this trip that she met Gerhardt B. Naeseth, who would inspire Carol to begin volun- The story of Carol’s exploration of her Norwegian heritage teering at NAGC upon their return to the States. actually begins much earlier in her life, during a summer in high school that she spent living with her great grandparents After she stayed with a family in Oslo for one week as part of while working in a canning factory in Belvidere. This was a the exchange, Carol had the ability to separate from the group unique opportunity to spend time with her great grandfather, and go out on her own. Based on her preliminary research, Chris Skagen, who had emigrated to the United States from Carol knew that her great grandfather had once lived in Vik in Norway as a young man. However, Carol had always known Sogn og Fjordane and been confirmed at the Hove Church in how hesitant he was to open up about his past, and unfortu- Vikøyri, so she went there to continue her search. nately that did not change over the course of her summer in Vik, an area of roughly 300 square miles northeast of Bergen Belvidere. “Great Grandpa Skagen talked a lot about the beau- known for its relatively mild climate, lush meadows, and spec- tiful fjords in Norway,” Carol recalls, “but he didn’t share any- tacular mountains, is a municipality that up until January 1, thing about his life in Norway, even when asked.” Facing this 2020 was part of Sogn og Fjordane County, and is now part of roadblock, Carol knew that a deeper level of investigation Vestland County. Vik hugs the southern shore of the would be necessary to get to the bottom of her great grandfa- Sognefjord, which, known as the King of the Fjords, is the ther’s story. largest and deepest fjord in Norway. Vik’s name is derived Her chance came when she heard that the Madison-Oslo Sis- from the Old Norse word meaning inlet or cove, referring to ter City Exchange was sponsoring a trip for local Madisonians the small bay off the Sognefjord where the village of Vikøyri is to visit Norway. Sister City Exchanges are an initiative born of located. The area of Vik has long been known for its agricul- the Eisenhower administration in which cities in the United tural prominence, and it is home to two 12th century churches States can create formal, “sister” relationships with cities and many Viking-era burial grounds. across the globe for the purpose of diplomatic and cultural Carol spent her first day in Vikøyri taking in the sights. “I exchange. Madison and Oslo established such a sister city walked and walked around the town,” she remembers, “I kept relationship in 1962, and in 1981, Carol was part of the official 10 gen, where she had been advised by Odd’s family to check in with a Peter Skagen, who had been tracing the family’s genealogy for years. This turned out to be the pivotal moment in the search. Upon her arrival in Bergen, Peter Skagen went to the archives to investigate on behalf of Carol, and finally came out with an answer - Carol’s great grandfather was not born a Skagen. By birth, he was actually Christoffer Hugneson Kirketeig, the son of unmarried parents Anne Johanne Nilsdatter Valen and Hugne Halderson Berge. Additionally, he was not born in Vik, but rather on the Kirketeig farm in the parish of Fjelberg in Hordaland County. For the first years of his life, he lived with his grandmother, Anne Hansdatter Skeie, and her second husband on the Above: Carol’s ancestor, Anne Johanne Nilsdatter Løvøen Myren farm in the nearby parish of Eide in Skagen, by her home in Vik i Sogn. Hordaland. Then in 1869, when he was six, his moth- Below: Carol next to the same house in 1981 er married Hans Johan Skagen, and he went to live with them, first in Laerdal and then in Vik, for the rest of his childhood. Although on paper he remained Christoffer Hugneson Kirketeig, Chris adopted his step father’s last name, Skagen, in practice after arriv- ing in the United States. He would keep his new name when on January 19, 1882, just two days after turning nineteen years old, Chris set out alone from Bergen to start a new life in America. He eventually settled in Bonus Township, just east of Belvidere, Illinois, the area where he would stay for the rest of his life.
After finally discovering these long sought after an- swers, Carol returned home to Madison and became extensively involved in the work of NAGC. From 1983 to 1991 she worked as a volunteer for several projects, the most notable of which was the 1900 Census Pro- ject. In this capacity, Carol would regularly visit the Wisconsin State Historical Society and go through rolls of microfilm to record each family in Wisconsin that the census had marked as being Norwegian. She thinking that I was walking where my great grandfa- then typed this information on slips of paper that ther had once walked. It was such an emotional expe- were filed in drawers at NAGC & NL, creating an in- rience for me.” The next day, Carol started her search valuable resource for many future genealogical re- in Vikøyri by going into the Hopstock Hotel and ask- searchers. ing if there were any Skagen families still living in Vik She returned as a volunteer in 1993, when she took on who knew English. She was put in touch with a local the task of typing the text for volume two of Gerhard named Odd Skagen and his wife, Anne-Guri Schroed- B. Naeseth’s “Norwegian Immigrants 1825-1850 to er. The two had no idea how Carol might be related to North America.” Unfortunately, Naeseth was in fail- their family, but together they went to the Hove ing health at the time, so Carol would do this work in Church to see if they could find any record of Chris’ his home, where he had a word processor. After confirmation. The pastor found nothing for Chris Naeseth passed away on June 10, 1994, Carol contin- Skagen, but later, one of Odd Skagen’s relatives ued to work for NAGC as a researcher, until 2001 pulled out a family scrapbook, and in it was a picture of Carol’s great grandparents and their children. Mo- Continued on page 12 tivated by this clue, Carol moved her search to Ber- 11 CAROL CULBERTSON (CONT.)
Continued from page 11 The drive to Madison from Evansville on Hwy 14 was not the best and was the reason for my decision, as well as wanting more when she filled in as assistant director. Later, from 2002 to time with my great-grandchildren and doing my own family 2003, she served as executive director, the position from which research.” she retired - for the first time. Thank you again, Carol, and good luck in this next stage of life! Carol returned to the Center in 2010 as a senior researcher and retired for the second time in January 2020. When speaking of this point in her career, Carol says, “My biggest accomplish- ment, in addition to all the research projects I did, was prepar- ing the Norwegian Research Guide for publication in 2013 and the revised edition to be published in 2020.” Additionally, in this final stage of her career with NAGC, Carol was involved solving several important genealogical puzzles, including the case of the two Ole Sveinsen/Svendsens that had served in the Civil War and had been confused with each other by prior re- searchers (“Norwegian Tracks” Volume 40 Number 2 Spring 2017), and identifying all of the owners of Diderikke Brandt’s sewing kit dating back to 1653 (“Norwegian Tracks” Volume 41 Number 1 Fall 2017). Together, Carol’s commitment to and impact on NAGC & NL has been unparalleled throughout our organization’s history. Her story of genealogical discovery, on both a personal and profes- sional level, is something we can all look to for inspiration. The staff and clients of NAGC & NL are incredibly thankful for her service, guidance, and friendship. As she says goodbye, she would like to leave us with these final thoughts: “It has been very rewarding finding information and answering questions from our clients. It has been a very fulfilling job. In case you didn’t know it - Genealogy is addicting – whether it is your own or someone else’s. It was like detective work looking for the answers to people’s research questions. Both times I re- Top: Carol and her husband, Steve tired it was a difficult decision because I liked the work so much. Bottom: Carol leading a scrapbooking class at NAGC
Supporting NAGC is Easier than Ever
NAGC is now a Thrivent Choice and an AmazonSmile organi- zation, which means supporting NAGC has never been easier for its members. Thrivent has long offered its members the opportunity to des- ignate a portion of the company’s earnings to the non-profit organization of the members’ choice. Eligible Thrivent mem- bers can recommend where Thrivent distributes a portion of its charitable funding by directing Choice Dollars®. Visit https://www.thrivent.com/making-a-difference/living- generously/thrivent-choice/ for more information. AmazonSmile offers a similar opportunity. A portion of your purchase from Amazon.com can be directed to NAGC. For more information about enrolling in AmazonSmile visit https://smile.amazon.com/gp/chpf/about/ ref=smi_se_rspo_laas_aas.
12 IMMIGRANT SACRIFICE (CONTINUED)
(Continued from page 8) THE OGDENSBURG AND THE ATLANTIC ing episode, the remaining immigrants had to pick up what remained of their lives and complete their journey. Stefen was able to get his group to Milwaukee, where they then The newspapers called it a dispersed to their respective plots in the Wisconsin countryside to try to begin life “frightful catastrophe.” anew. Looking toward the future, Stefen and his fiancé Marit returned to the area that would become Valders to finally settle. At approximately 2:00 a.m. on August 20, 1852, the Atlantic Over a century later, John says he can still feel the reverberation of this incident in the collided with the Ogdensburg. It way he lives his own life. John grew up in Valders in the 1950’s on the farm which his was a foggy night, which likely great grandfather Thomas built. “Most people left these farms after one generation or contributed to the collision. two generations, but somehow my father was around for the third generation,” John Some hypothesize that the offic- says smiling. After realizing that he did not want to stay on the farm, John moved to ers miscalculated how to steer Madison and went through the engineering school at the University of Wisconsin. He their vessels. Others claim it then pursued graduate studies at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylva- was deliberate. Either way, it nia and graduated with an M.S. in Financial Analytics. Upon graduation, he moved ended it tragedy. back to the Madison area and established a successful career in investment manage- ment. After the collision, the captain Although his life extended beyond the farm of his forefathers, there are some lessons of the Atlantic attempted to which John says will always stick with him - like that tragedy can come in more forms continue on his course, hoping than just a shipwreck. Recalling how his dad approached life on the farm, John says, to be able to reach the port. He “It was all about trying to avoid disaster, avoiding the bad. Spending money on frivo- urges his passengers to remain lous things gave you temporary happiness and benefit, but put you in a position of calm and remain onboard. Ap- having to worry about your long-term future - it wasn’t worth it.” John says that he has proximately two miles from carried over much of this same mentality into his personal and professional life as an where the collision occurred, investor. “About twenty five years ago I had a person do some carpentry work for me. the Atlantic sank. Eventually he finished, so I bought a house on East Washington Avenue, ten blocks from the Capitol, and had him spend a year rebuilding it. When it all got done, I The passengers of the Atlantic thought, ‘Why sell this house?’ So I rented it, but I still had this fellow who was a great were largely Norwegian immi- worker. So now, including this house, I have eighteen houses. With no debt on any of grants, and therefore most did- them. Having rental properties was a secure, steady income. I don’t know why anyone n’t understand English. The would do that kind of thing without thinking they need to avoid a disaster, like if I lost crew advised them to hold tight my job. I think you have to attribute that to my Norwegian culture or heritage, or may- to the furniture of the cabins be it’s just an instinct.” because it would float, but many of the passengers jumped over- Whatever it is, it is clear that John has, at least so far, successfully avoided a disaster of board with nothing to cling to Atlantic-like proportions. John became interested in genealogy after learning more but hope. about his family history, and as an adult became involved with the Madison Torske Klubben, Vesterheim, and NAGC & NL. “I always enjoyed the NAGC Friends Dinner Approximately 150 of the pas- every year,” John recalls. “It reminded me of growing up in Valders.” John appreciated sengers were rescued from the how NAGC was trying to preserve Norwegian culture because he feels “That setting is water in spite of the dense fog. slipping away. Organizations like NAGC are important in the lives of Norwegian Amer- Sadly, nearly 200 passengers icans.” He is now the Chairman of the Board of Directors for NAGC, where he helps drowned that night. guide the organization’s leadership through the establishment and completion of stra- tegic goals and objectives. With that same ancestral spirit of sensibility and frugality, A full list of the Norwegian im- coming first migrant casualties aboard the from the Val- Atlantic can be found at http:// dres Valley and www.norwayheritage.com/ developing articles/templates/great- further in Val- disasters.asp? ders, Wiscon- articleid=33&zoneid=1 sin, it is our hope that John will continue to serve as a leader at NAGC & NL for years to come. John, his wife, Jane Bartell, Christian Overland, and Maura Overland at the 2019 Madison Area Friends Dinner 13 RECENT ACQUISITIONS
We offer our sincere thanks to the donors listed below who gave research materials for the Naeseth Library during the first half of 2020.
NEW FAMILY HISTORIES
Martha Frey, Middleton, WI Enid Johnson Ringdahl, Fergus Falls, MN Marjory Thorstenson, Rapid City, SD Francis Turmo, Maryville, TN
NEW NORWEGIAN LOCAL HISTORIES & REFERENCE
Robert & Robin Fossum, Chetek, WI Ronald Humphrey, Sun Prairie, WI Roar L. Irgens, Mount Vernon, WA Luther P. Nervig, Wadena, MN
NEW U.S. LOCAL HISTORIES & REFERENCE
Tacoma-Pierce County Genealogical Society, Tacoma, WA
OTHER NEW RESEARCH MATERIALS
Kathleen Dahl, Savage, MN
We are also grateful for the two acquisitions funds that continue to support additions to the library collections at NAGC: the William Helgeson Fund and the Loper Fund for North Norway Acquisitions.
For a complete listing of authors, titles, and subjects of the items in the Naeseth Li- brary, please consult our website: https://nagcnl.pastperfectonline.com/
Volunteer Kara Kelly re-shelving the collection in preparation of reopening the Naeseth Library 14 14 2019 Annual Report BOARD OF DIRECTORS By Dana Kelly, NAGC Executive Director John Thompson, Chair It is my honor to be writing the introduction to the annual report for 2019. I joined the Gary Smithback, Vice Chair NAGC staff in August and it is no exaggeration to say that it was a dream come true for Ken Larson, Secretary me. I have spent the majority of my free time over the past three decades learning the ins Paul Berge, Treasurer and outs of Norwegian genealogy and studying Norwegian immigration history. To be Robert Fossum asked to use and share that experience and knowledge in a professional setting was Peggy Hager something I never imagined would be my fate. I thank you for placing your confidence in Scott Johnson me as your new Executive Director. Rolf Killingstad Ann Leon STAFF AND BOARD UPDATES Marg Listug First and foremost, NAGC bid farewell to two longtime staff members: Executive Direc- Christine Milligan-Ciha tor, Jeanne Wright and Development Director, David Wright. The Wrights were instru- Peder Moren mental in building the sound financial foundation on which NAGC stands today. Their Ellen Smithback decision to retire at the end of 2019 was bittersweet. It is humbling to step in and as- sume their responsibilities, and I am very appreciative for how supportive they have STAFF been during the transition.
Dana Kelly, Executive Director Jerry Paulson has been inching toward retirement which led to the addition of Michael Gerald Paulson, Naeseth Chair for Knudson to the NAGC staff. He is a graduate student at UW-Madison with extensive Genealogical Research knowledge of Norwegian dialects. He has proven to be an exceptional researcher and and Publication translator. Michael Knudson, Senior Genea- logical Researcher Our board of directors also saw some changes. Paul Larson and Anne Lindblom both Solveig Quinney, Translator rotated off the board at the end of their terms. They both gave several years of service to Sigrid Hansen, Librarian NAGC and were active in creating the successful organization it is today. Several new Diane Maurer, Member Services members joined the board and offer incredible experience and knowledge to benefit Coordinator NAGC. Christine Milligan-Ciha, Ann Leon, and Peder Moren all joined the board in 2019. VOLUNTEERS OUTREACH AND EVENTS Carol Culbertson Last April the Madison Area Friends hosted a dinner at Blackhawk Country Club to sup- Frank Delaney port NAGC. The program was second to none. The Nordic Fiddlers Bloc provided out- Kara Kelly standing musical entertainment. The fellowship between staff, members, and friends Carolyn Love Gary Swain was, of course, another highlight of the evening. Sons of Norway, Norse Valley Jerry Paulson led his popular research tour to Salt Lake City and it was my privilege to Lodge, Appleton, WI accompany the group. It was my first time visiting the Family History Library and it was David Wright a great pleasure to explore the resources available there and to meet some more of our Jeanne Wright members.
BUILDING AND FACILITIES
The building at 415 West Main Street has been showing its age. In July, the furnace/air conditioning unit needed to be replaced, and in October the sump pumps were replaced.
NAGC launched a fundraising campaign to make some more substantial changes to the building and improve access to the Naeseth Library and the NAGC collection. Improve- ments include updated lighting, computer-friendly workstations, accessible bathrooms, and an elevator. Construction began on the project at the end of 2019 with an expected completion in spring 2020.
RESEARCH GUIDE
The popular publication, “A Research Guide for Norwegian Genealogy,” is in need of a few updates. The staff and volunteers undertook revising, updating, and adding a great deal of information to include the changes the field of genealogy has seen over the past several years. Be watching for the updated version this fall. 15 Thank You!
The board of directors and staff of the Norwegian American Genealogical Center & Naeseth Library record with heartfelt gratitude the names of the following contributors during 2019. Every effort has been made to acknowledge the many wonderful gifts received during this year. Please remember that this list reflects contributions made in the 2019 calendar year.
LEADERSHIP GIFTS IN 2019 GIFTS TO THE LIBRARY Paul Berge Josefa Andersen The Edwin E. and Janet L. Bryant Foundation Roberta and Charles Anderson Deanna and Gerald Erickson John Bergren Kay Bogart Linda Harvey John Brugge Helen Campbell Donald Hoganson David and James Gunderson HPE Corporate Affairs Organization Matilda Hansen Rhys Hanson Anna Marie Huesers William Helgeson Fund IBM Foundation Steven Heimerle Harald Hvattum Sandra and Jay Jensen Jeanne Iverson David and Susan Johansen M.L. and Karen Jacobson Kjell A. Johansen Gary Johnson Richard Kinsman Ronald T. Lee Scott and Wendy Johnson Leydig Center Ken and Kathy Larson David Lohman Loper Fund for North Norway Acquisitions Paul and Dianne Larson Minnesota Historical Society Ann Leon Mjøsmuseet Tom Moe Joan Losen Jon Nelson Esther Mills Lawrence and Helena Nelson Estate Allan, Ralph and Patrick Peterson Jeanne and Peder Moren Joan Phelan Gerhard & Milma Naeseth Charitable Foundation Kathryn Ramberg Rock Valley Lutheran Church Irene Navarre Byron L. Schmid St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church David and Ann Nelson Michael and Jeanne Sween Eugene Nordby Patricia Thorstad True Jane Wallace Helen and Lowell Olberg Laurence & Sally West Mary and Gerald Paulson Karen Wyman Cathleen Cleven Zange JoAnn Six Årbokutvalget Gary and Ellen Smithback
Gilman Thompson John Thompson and Jane Bartell Frank Tysver
Jeanne and David Wright 16 MANY THANKS TO ALL 2019 DONORS
GIFTS IN KIND David & Ann Nelson Liv Paulson Norderhaug Paul Berge Lowell & Helen Olberg Blackhawk Country Club Gary & Ellen Smithback Joyce Bringe Gary Swain Carol and Steve Culbertson Marion Thoreson John O. Glesne Jeanne & David Wright Diane Maurer
2019 DONORS Bernice Day Finn Gunderson Fran and James Debnam Muriel and Kenneth Gunderson Mary Adams Den Norske Pioneers Club Joan and Ron Halverson Evy and Robert Alsaker Debra Dieter Arleigh Hamel Peter Amundson Audrey Dybdahl John Hammond Arthur and Nancy Andersen Karen and Wayne Eastby Janet Hampson Phyllis Andersland Paul Eastwood Milan Hanson Norman and Elmo Anderson Joyce Eckblad David Hardy Terrie Rae and Chris Anderson Edith and Dale Eggen Elaine Hasleton Gary Antoniewicz and Martha Taylor Doris Elmer Carol Hassemer Anton Arneson ExxonMobil Foundation Carol Williams Hasvold Darlene and John Arneson Kathy Faris Roe and Beverly Hatlen Alton Ask Saralee Fassbender John Haugen Thomas Asp Judith Finley Alv Hay Beverly and Robert Bachelder Marjorie Fitzsimmons Teri Hedrich Jean Bakkom Janet Floeter Susan Helms Norma Bakros Dean Flugstad Kenneth Henrickson Eunice Becker Steven and Ruth Fortney Wendy Higgins Sara Becker-Catania Joyce and Howard Foss Merlin Hoiseth Owen Bekkum Ella Fossum Barb and David Holt Carolyn Bellissimo Robert and Robin Fossum John Holzhueter Paul Berglan Martha Frey Marilyn Hooper John Bergren Ruth Freymann Michael Hovland and Nancy Jones Lucille Bjerke Curt and Joanne Frisk Penny Hubbard Nancy Blatt Myrtle Fujii Frances Ingebritson Shirley Boe Allan and Judith Fulkerson Ella Inglebret Thomas Branigar Helene Furst LaMont Jacobson Joyce Bringe Judith Gambrel Nancy and Norman Jensen Rosemary Brooks Linda George Jon Jensen Gil Bunker Janet and Lee Geronime Kjell Johansen Evonna Cheetham Lucretia Ghastin Bringa Johnson Ruth and David Christ Cristel and Craig Gjerde Bruce and Mary Johnson Karin Christensen John Glesne Jill Johnson Vicky and Michael Christianson Clarice Goodrick Mark Johnson Allan Ciha and Christine Milligan- Hannah and Gaylon Greenhill Richard Johnson Ciha Priscilla Greenlees Darlene and Thor Jondahl Linda Clauder Ronald Grider John Kaldahl Delores and William Clayton Shirley Gronlund Kent and Helen Karberg Robert Coons Gudrid Reading Circle Gloria Kaste Kathleen Dahl Diane Guildner Dana Kelly Karen Davidson Kathleen and Perry Gulbrandsen Rolf Killingstad Helen Davison
17 MANY THANKS TO ALL 2019 DONORS Continued from page 13
Irene Kinna Arthur Ness Dianne Snell Barbara and Gary Klofstad Lori and Paul Ness Barbara Soderberg Sue Kontney Melany Newby Sons of Norway Kristiania Lodge #47 Laurette Kosky Cornelia Newtson Sons of Norway Solbakken Lodge 6- Irene Kringle Liv and Michael Norderhaug 64 Karen Kuhlman Gerald Offerdahl Sons of Norway Solglimt Lodge #1- Lu Kummerow Judy Offerdahl 547 Dean Larsen Beverly Olson Sons of Norway Vennligfolk Lodge 5- Judith and William Larsen Darlene Olson 627 Marlys Larsen Lee and Kathleen Olson Dennis Souza Mark Larson David Opsahl Judith Stang Sandra Lazo Sara Orvick Tyrone Steen Lora Lee Richard Palmer Carol Steffan Ronald Lee Anita Parks Anne Marie and John M. Stole Dale Leeper Patricia Paulson Cynthia Strasser Lynn Legler Carroll Pedersen Karen Suksi Sue Lendborg James Pence Linda Ann Sunde Delores Lewis Beth Percy Coral Swanson Anne and Scott Lindblom Kate Peterson Shirley and Edward J. Swartz Marg Listug Thomas Pierce Virginia Swingen Roald Lokken Peter Prestrud Patricia Tharp Carolyn Love Patricia Putnam Gail Thompson Marcy and John Lovick Margaret Quinlan Gail and Bjorn Thompson Lowell Ludford Ann and James Reeve Mark Thompson David Mades Janet Nelson and Timothy Reilley Marion Thoresen Thomas and Lynne Martin-Erickson David and Janice Reinhardt Robert Thorkildson Judith Mathison Diane Risley Denise and Keith Thousand Dale Maurer Kek Robien Patricia True Diane Maurer John Roe Francis Turmo Marilyn Maurer Mark Rogstad Mary and Pete Vandenberg Elaine Mayers Ann Romo Jill Vander Brug Sigurd Midelfort Donald Rorvig Chris Velline Joan Miller Brian and Karen Rude Arlen Viste Leann Miller Delana Ruud Sandy Volmar Victoria and Randal Miller Beverly Saboe Donald Wang Liza Moe Lora N. Sanford Nancy Washington Thomas Moe Diane and Michael Schmidt Maralyn Wellauer Sheldon Mork Julia Schmolke Carolyn White Ann and John Myhre Mary Schranz Ginny and Lawrence White Joel Myklebust Donald Schuette Cheryl Wille Schlesser Brett Nelson Joy and Glenn Shong Patricia Williams Delphine Nelson Gail Simmons Vincent and Verla Williams Eileen Nelson Stephen Eric Simon Harold Williamson Lloyd Nelson John Skillrud David Woldseth Marybeth Nelson Dennis and Judy Skogen Mary Zaroufy Richard & Marilyn Nelson James Skurdall Steven Nelson Jane Smith
18 SPONSORS OF 2019 MADISON AREA FRIENDS DINNER
PLATINA SØLV BRONSE John Thompson and Jane Bartell Owen Bekkum Robert and Evy Alsaker Paul M. Berge Ron and Joan Halverson GULL Robert and Robin Fossum JoAnn Six Don Hoganson Jay and Sandra Jensen Dennis and Judy Skogen Paul and Dianne Larson Dental Health Associates—Dr. Scott Carolyn White Ann and David Nelson and Wendy Johnson E. J. Nordby, MD Peder and Jeanne Moren Lowell & Helen Olberg Gary and Ellen Smithback Frank A. Tysver Martha Taylor
TRIBUTE AND MEMORIAL GIFTS
TRIBUTE GIFTS IN HONOR OF
50th Anniversary of Paul & Di- David & Jeanne Wright by Da- Diane Maurer by Richard and anne Larson by Terri Rae and vid and Ann Nelson Marilyn Nelson Chris Anderson David & Jeanne Wright by Di- Dr. Eugene Nordby by Jill 90th birthday of Audrey Brekke ane Maurer Johnson Kunstman by Diane Maurer David & Jeanne Wright by Di- Gudrid Reading Circle by Diane Aslak Olsen Lie by John ane and Michael Schmidt Risley Holzhueter David & Jeanne Wright by Don- Her Norwegian heritage by He- Blaine Hedberg by John Skill- ald Hoganson lene Furst rud David & Jeanne Wright by Ella His Karlsen family in Minneso- Born in Lanesboro, MN and Fossum ta by Alv Hay confirmed in Norwegian by Ar- David & Jeanne Wright by Eu- Hon. Consul General Paul S. & len Viste gene Nordby Lindy Anderson by Jeanne and David Wright Carol Culbertson by Janet David & Jeanne Wright by Hel- Hampson en and Lowell Olberg Retiring Hon. Consul General Paul Anderson by Ken & Kathy Darwin Odell Hildahl by Esther David & Jeanne Wright by Larson Mills Jeanne and Peder Moren John Thompson by Roe and David & Jeanne Wright by Allan David & Jeanne Wright by Lee Beverly Hatlen Ciha & Christine Milligan-Ciha & Kathleen Olson Marie Jordahl by Sara Becker- David & Jeanne Wright by Ann David & Jeanne Wright by Mar- Catania Leon tha Taylor and Gary Antoniewicz Neil and Rosalee Krinke by Liv David & Jeanne Wright by Anne David & Jeanne Wright by Paul and Michael Norderhaug and Scott Lindblom Berge Ruth Fortney’s 80th Birthday David & Jeanne Wright by David & Jeanne Wright by Paul by Diane Maurer Audrey Dybdahl and Dianne Larson The Reishus Family by Kek David & Jeanne Wright by Bev- David & Jeanne Wright by Mary Robien erly and Robert Bachelder and Gerald Paulson David & Jeanne Wright by Da- David & Jeanne Wright by Vic- vid Hardy toria and Randal Miller 19 TRIBUTE AND MEMORIAL GIFTS
GIFTS IN MEMORY OF
All of my Norwegian ancestors John Gerhard Erickson by Julia Albert (Albie) Holacek by Liv by Judith Finley Schmolke and Michael Norderhaug My Norwegian ancestors by My proud Norwegian Uncle Dick Petra Lybak Holter by Coral John Hammond Erstad by Diane Maurer Swanson
My Telemark ancestors by Patri- My father Einar Erstad by Mari- Inga Syverson Honrud by Marlys cia Williams lyn Maurer Larsen My brother Franklin Olaf Al- Amanda Aasen Fitzsimmons by Dan Huebner by Diane and Mi- vstad by Lynn Legler Marjorie Fitzsimmons chael Schmidt
Verland and Agnes Blake by Vin- Leroy T. Fitzsimmons by Marjo- Daughter Christine L. Huesers cent and Verla Williams rie Fitzsimmons by Anna Marie Huesers
Jennie Buraas Anderson by Pa- Dr. and Mrs. C. A. Fjeldstad and Lloyd Huesers by Anna Marie tricia Tharp Al Fjeldstad by Joan Losen Huesers Lorentina Regina Antonson by Peer and Esther Gulbrandsen by Ella Frankson Inglebret by Ella Irene Kinna Kathleen and Perry Gulbrandsen Inglebret
Merle Aus by Liv and Michael Helga Gundersen and C. Fredrik Frances M. Jeffers by Jeanne Norderhaug Midelfort by Sigurd Midelfort and David Wright Beatrice Helena Reque Beckett Ralph Henrickson by Kenneth Anna Dorthea Johannessen by (1904-1986) by Stephen Eric Simon Henrickson Gil Bunker
Marian Bergan, life member by John E. and Herborg (Paulson) Karl Johansen by David and Su- Jeanne and David Wright Gunderson by Muriel and Ken- san Johansen neth Gunderson Mary K. Berge by Paul Berge Richard F. Johnson by Mary Ad- My father Emil James Gustafson ams Alyce P. Bjoraas by Kathy Faris by Wendy Higgins My mother Gladys B. Anderson Clarence Corneliusen by Rose- My great grandmother Hilda Ketterl by Karen Suksi mary Brooks Gustafson by Wendy Higgins Andreas Kristian Kolstad by Barbara D’Amico by Diane Elaine Halls by Jeanne and Da- Priscilla Greenlees Maurer vid Wright C. Marvin Lang by Jeanne and Barbara D’Amico by Jeanne and Aunt Dorothy Hamre by Marcy David Wright David Wright and John Lovick C. Marvin Lang by Vennligfolk My fun loving and proud Norwe- Fred G. Hansen by Diane Guild- Sons of Norway Lodge 5-627 gian mother Bev Doerfer by Gail ner Simmons My parents Dorothy and Mau- Thordis Louise Hansen by David rice Leon by Ann Leon Marcus and Lucile Eastby and Mades Orville and Dorothy Hoffmann Trygve Lønnebotn by Finn by Karen and Wayne Eastby Paul M. Hasvold by Carol W il- Gunderson liams Hasvold Anna Emmanuelson by Laurette Trygve Lønnebotn by Melany Kosky Ole and Anna Hendricks by Newby Mary Schranz
20 TRIBUTE AND MEMORIAL GIFTS
Our granddaughter Kyria Robert Thorkildson Swingen Madany-Klein by Darlene and Hans and Gunhild Paulson by Clarence and Jane Sunde by Thor Jondahl Mary and Gerald Paulson Linda Ann Sunde My father Lyall Mathison by Helen Pedersen by Deanna and My grandfather Edward A. Judith Mathison Gerald Erickson Thingstad by Jeanne and Peder Carl and Helen (Larson) Moe Moren Caye Marie (Johnson) Pierce by by Ruth and David Christ Thomas Pierce My parents Lewis and Selma Nels and Johanna Moe by Thompson by Gilman Thomp- Sue A. Asperheim Pope by Mary Thomas Moe son and Gerald Paulson Irene Navarre by Dianne Snell My Thorstad and Simonson An- Bill Putnam by Diane Maurer cestors by Patricia True Irene Navarre by Jeanne and Capt. Hans Rasmussen by Car- David Wright Carl and Gladys Turmo by olyn Love Francis Turmo Alvin Nelson by Liv and Mi- John Reindl by Jeanne and Da- chael Norderhaug Cornelius and Mariane Vander vid Wright Brug by Karen Jill Vander Brug Gerhardt and Constance Johan O. Ronningen by Dennis (Olson) Nelson by Steven Nel- Father Arthur Eugene Viste Souza son (1898-1987), a full blooded Nor- My grandfather Ole Olsen Ruud wegian by Arlen Viste Family genealogist Lawrence by Delana Ruud Nelson by Phyllis Andersland Roslyn and J. K. Waddell by Joy Fran Susag Silha by Liv and Mi- and Glenn Shong Rex R. Nelson by Richard and chael Norderhaug Marilyn Nelson Jennie Anderson Wergin Logan Silha by Liv and Michael (6/8/1910-4/1/1975) by Ginny and Olive J. Nordby by The Gudrid Norderhaug Lawrence White Reading Circle Clair Strommen by Liv and Mi- Jack Westman by Carroll Dolores and Nordeen Offerdahl chael Norderhaug Pedersen by Judy Offerdahl Gladys Strommen by Liv and Rhona L. Wetherille by Liv and Earle and Rosalind Olson by Michael Norderhaug Michael Norderhaug Marilyn Hooper Anthon Sundbye (1904-1980) Arnt Estensen Øien and Andrea Emma Josephine Olson by Gail by Anita Parks Hansdatter Vuluvdden by Bar- Thompson bara Soderberg Eldred M. Swingen by Virginia Magnus Olaf Thorkildson by
MISSION STATEMENT: The Norwegian American Genealogical Center & Naeseth Library is an educational non-profit research center with national and international scope. The Center collects, preserves, shares, and interprets re- sources for the study of Norwegian heritage. Through its collections, research and publications, NAGC & NL strives to maintain and enhance its role as the most comprehensive source of information about the history of Norwegian immigration.
21 PLEASE PLACE Norwegian American Genealogical STAMP Center & Naeseth Library HERE 415 West Main Street Madison, WI 53703-3116
Phone: 608-255-2224
E-mail: [email protected] www.nagcnl.org Facebook: @NorAmGeneCtr
Give the Gift of Membership Norwegian American Genealogical Center & Naeseth Library Membership Level: ______New ______Gift _____ Associate- $40 per year _____ Philanthropic- $80 per year Name: ______Supporter- $160 per year (Includes full database access) Address: ______Membership Total
City: ______Annual Fund Contribution
State & ZIP: ______Total Amount Enclosed Return completed form and payment to: NAGC & NL Phone: ______415 W Main Street Madison, WI 53713-3116
Or become a member online at Email: ______www.nagcnl.org
Annual dues are payable by check or credit card. For credit cards please complete the following information: _____ Visa _____ MasterCard _____ Discover _____ American Express
Account# ______Expiration Date ______
Signature: ______Phone Number ______