Father's Day 2014

To all the fathers in the Kocevar-Lidman Family Tree

Whether in Austria, Norway, Slovenia, Sweden or the United States - and from 1650 onward, these men make up the paternal branches in my family tree. I only wish we had pictures of more of them.

Ernest William Lidman
Lars Elofsson
Elof Larsson
Lars Elofsson
Lars Jonsson
Peder Eriksen
Erik Ivarsen
Peder Pedersen
Elof Persson
Halfvard Bengtsson Osman
Jons Jonssn
Pehr Sonesson
Pehr Elofsson
Anders Hakansson
Bengt Olafsson
Mattes Jonsson
Elof Gudmundsson
Bonde Jonsson
Hakan Andersson
Nils Larsson
Gudmund Elofsson
Valentin Kocevar
Francis Kocevar
Anton Zagradisnik

Father's Day 2014

This Week on My Family History Calendar

Kocevar-Lidman Calendar  June 15 - June 21
Image made with wordle.net

June 15
Ane Eriksdatter, Hastadgjerdet [4714] (1821-unknown), my great-grandaunt, was born on this date in 1821 in Hegra, Ovre Stjordal, Nord-Trondelag, Norway. Ane's parents were Erik Ivarsen, Medkilplass/Hastagjerdet [4269] and Marta Zakariasdatter, Berget [4270]. The 1865 Norway Census indicates she married Andreas Arntsen, Husbynmoen [4722] (1837-unknown) who was 16 years her junior, and they had one child. Again, this is another one of those families that I need to learn more about, as I have not found their marriage record, additional family records, or their death records.

June 18
John Pedersen, Bang [5251] (1758-1818), my fourth great-granduncle, was born on this date in 1758 in Bang, Stjordal, Nord-Trondelag, Norway. John's parents were Peder Johnsen, Hegre [5245] and Marit Pedersdatter, Hegre [5246]. In 1787 John married Anne Guttormsdatter, Husby [5253] (1766-1854) in Stjordal, Nord-Trondelag, Norway. John took over the family farm at Bang from his father. John and Anne had ten children.

June 20
August G. Kopesky [5533] (1874-1958) and Mary Larson [4296] (1873-1966), my first cousin three times removed, were married on this date in 1900 in Hennepin County, Minnesota. Mary's parents were Halvard Larsson [4294] and Kerstin Larsdotter [4295]. August's parents were Joseph Kopesky [5587] and Mary Portel [5588]. August was a carpenter and he and Mary made their home in Minnetonka. Although they did not have any children of their own, the 1910 census indicates that they took two children into their home (I have not yet determined if these girls were relatives or not).

June 21
Lars Elofsson [4274] (1806-1838), my third great-grandfather, was born on this date in 1806 in Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, Sweden. Lars' parents were Elof Persson [4307] and Kjerstin Andersdotter [4308]. In 1829 Lars married Anna Halvardsdotter [427] (1810-1891) in Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, Sweden. They made their home on a farm in Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, Sweden. Lars and Anna had three children.

Aloysius Valentine Kochevar [901] (1912-1929), my granduncle, was born on this date in 1912 in Taylor, King, Washington. Louis' parents were Valentin Kocevar [897] and Antonia Zagradisnik [898]. As a child, Louis was diagnosed with epilepsy and his condition worsened over time. His parents made the very difficult decision to send Louis to Medical Lake (a state custodial school) in January 1928. Louis died the following year as a result of an epileptic seizure. Louis' hospitalization and unexpected death within the year was always a source of great sadness and heartache for his parents and siblings - something my grandmother and great-aunt continued to comment upon even 70 years later.

Do any of these names or places sound familiar? Perhaps we share some extended family. If so I would love to hear from you, share information, and together we can grow our family tree. 

This Week on My Family History Calendar

This Week on My Family History Calendar

Kocevar-Lidman Family Calendar May 25 - 31
Image made with wordle.net - thanks

May 26
Peder Pedersen, Kval [4697] (1798-1860) and Mali Eriksdatter, Skjelstadsveen [4698] (1794-unknown), my third great-grandparents were married on this date in 1825 in Hegra, Stjordal, Nord-Trondelag, Norway. Peder's parents were Peder Pedersen, Bang/Borstadmyren [4701] and Gunnil Haagensdatter, Kval [4702]. Mali's parents were Erik Hansen [4699] and Mail Larsdatter [4700]. Peder and Mali had six children.

My great uncle, Edward John Kochevar [904] (1918-2010) and Sara Elizabeth Stinnett [459] (1921-unknown) were married on this date in 1941 in Seattle, King, Washington. Edward's parents were Valentin Kocevar [897] and Antonia Zagradisnik [898]. I have not yet found Sara's parents. Eddie and Sara made their home in California and had three children.

May 27
Peder Zakariasen, Berget [4720] (1802-unknown), my second great-great uncle, was born on this date in 1802 in Hegra, Stjordal, Nord-Trondelag, Norway. His parents were Erik Ivarsen, Medkilplass/Hastagjerdet [4269] and Marta Zakariasdatter, Berget [4270]. I have not been able to find Peder on the 1865 census or find any marriage or death information for him. This is another person I need to do additional research on.

Victor Emanuel Mattson [3418] (1883-1942), my first cousin twice removed ,was born on this date in 1883 in Lake Mary, Wright, Minnesota. Victor's parents were Pehr Mattson [3516] and Karin Elofsdotter [3415]. In 1915 Victor married Lena C. Benson [3424] (1890-1973) in Hennepin, Minnesota. Victor and Lena made their home in Wright, Minnesota on the family farm and had three children.

May 28
My great grandparents, Lars Elofsson [Louis Lidman on arrival to the USA] [845] (1860-1926) and Josephine Eriksen [846] (1875-1905) were married on this date in 1902 in Waverly, Wright, Minnesota. Louis' parents were Elof Larsson [847] and Marit Larsdotter [3412]. Josephine's parents were Peder Eriksen, Hastagjerdet [412] and Mali Pedersdatter, Rolfsengbergene [413]. Louis and Josephine made their home first in St. Mary, Minnesota (where my grandfather Ernest William Lidman [825] was born. They moved to Seattle, King, Washington to be closer to two of Josephine's sisters (where my great uncle Milton Theodore Lidman [920] was born). Unfortunately Josephine died from complications of childbirth with her second child. Louis left Milton with Josephine's sister, Mattie (always called Grandma Mattie as I think she served as a grandmother and mother to all the children in the extended family), and she raised him as her own. Louis returned to Minnesota with his oldest son, never remarried, and soon after homesteaded on land in North Dakota, where one of his sisters and his father joined him.

May 31
Britta Persdotter [4314], the wife of my third great-great uncle, was born on this date in 1799 in Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, Sweden. I have not found her family yet. Britta and Per Elofsson [4310] (1789-1838) were married in 1818 and had eight children.

Do any of these names and families sound familiar? We might share family members - and I would enjoy hearing from you and sharing information. Please contact me.

This Week on My Family History Calendar

This Week on My Family History Calendar

Scandia Musings Anniversaries & Birthdays
Week of May 4 - May 10

May 4

Halvard Halvardsson [4299] (1815-1894), the second husband of my third great-great grandmother Anna Halvardsdotter [4275] (1810-1891) was born on this day in 1815 in Eksharad, Varmlands lan, Sweden. Although he is listed as the stepfather to Halvard Larsson [4294] (my second great grandfather’s brother) it is pretty clear that since Halvard Larsson was born in Oct 1840 and his “father” Lars Elofsson died in Aug 1838 that is an impossibility. It also might be one of the reasons why Halvard Larsson immigrated to the USA in 1869. In any event, Halvard and Anna went on to have two daughters, and live in the community (and on the same farm) that Anna lived in with her first husband. Halvard visited the USA and appeared on the 1880 US federal census staying with his “step-son” Halvard and his family (and is listed on the census as Halvard's step-father). The various children from Anna's two marriages remained close. The brothers (actually step-brothers) Halvard Larsson and Elof Larsson settled in the same farming community in Minnesota and shared adjoining farms. I guess there is a little bit of scandal in every family – and I think it is wonderful that both the step-father and step-son were able to stay in touch. From the household examination reports, it looks like Halvard and Anna were together for over 50 years.

May 6

Anton Zagradisnik [915] (1839-1918) my second great grandfather was born on this day in 1839 in Gornji Grad, Austria. This is one of those places that goes back and forth between countries as a result of war. The Zagradisnik family was/is ethnically Slovenian. I have not yet found Anton’s parents. Anton was the husband of Anna Pevec [916] (1840-unk). Anton and Anna had seven children, including my great grandmother Antonia Zagradisnik [898]. Luckily we do have a photograph of Antonia with her parents and some of her siblings so I have been able to put a name with a face for Anton and Anna.

Anton Zagradisnik [923] (1889-1963) my great-great uncle, was born on this day in Nova Stifta, Austria. He was the son of Anton Zagradisnik [915] and Anna Pevic [916] (and in a little twist of serendipity he and his father share a birthday and his father is listed right above!). Anton was first married to Elizabeth Miller [2373] (1896-1972). Anton and Elizabeth had one daughter and later divorced. Anton then married Marja Louisa Strmonik [928] (1902-1979), who was also divorced. Anton and Mary had three daughters and made their home in King County, Washington. Both Anton and Mary are buried at the Black Diamond cemetery in Washington.  

May 9

Marit Elofsdotter [4311] (1793-unk) my third great-great aunt, was born on this day in Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, Sweden. She was the daughter of Elof Persson [4307] (1761-1827) and Kjerstin Andersdotter [4308] (1767-1841]. Although I have “followed” Marit in the household examination records and she is with her family in the 1820-1825 record, she is no longer with the family in the 1825-1829 record. I need to get back to my Swedish research and follow the paths of the extended family members – Marit has just moved to the top of that list! I need to know where she went, whether she married and had a family, and if there are additional family members to add to my tree - inquiring minds and all that. Thankfully the Swedish records are a treat to work with, you just have to put in the time.

How are you doing with your family history research? This calendar meme is really pointing out the people in my family who are calling out for some attention!

If any of these names and/or places sound familiar, perhaps we share some common ancestors. Let's pool our knowledge and share our stories. I would enjoy hearing from you.

This Week on My Family History Calendar

Counting Cousins in SNGF, Part Two

Kocevar-Lidman Cousins' Surnames
made with wordle.net - thanks

What good for the father's side of the family (over at the Keough Corner) is good for the mother's side (here at Scandia Musings). So the mission tonight in Saturday Night Genealogy Fun is as follows:

1)  Take both sets of your grandparents and figure out how many first cousins you have, and how many first cousins removed (a child or grandchild of a first cousin) you have.

2)  Extra Credit:  Take all four sets of your great-grandparents and figure out how many second cousins you have, and how many second cousins removed you have.

HINT:  Make a Descendants Chart with your genealogy software program!

3)  Tell us the grandparents and great-grandparents names, but don't give the name of living cousins unless you want to.  

4)  Are there any of those lines that you don't know all of the cousins names?  Do you care?  

5)  Tell us about them in your own blog post, in a comment to this blog post, or in a Facebook or Google+ post of your own.  Be sure to drop a comment to this post to link to your work.

I describe my methodology over at the Keough Corner but suffice it to say that for this mission and this blog, I choose the Kocever-Lidman direct line (my permanent tag 2). I used my Legacy database program and ran the Relationships report. I printed the report to a csv file and then saved it as a Microsoft Excel workbook so I could filter my report (love, love, love Excel for all kinds of record set downloads, and projects like this). If you are not taking advantage of manipulating your Legacy data in Excel, you are missing out. In this instance, Excel will let you filter your first cousins, your first cousins once removed, your first cousins twice removed, and so on and so on. 

So who are my people and what are my stats - well I'm glad you asked.

My grandparents Ernest William Lidman and Antonia Anna Kochevar had one son and three daughters, one of whom is my mother. I have seven (7) siblings and four (4) first cousins. My mother's side of the family tree is most definitely smaller than my father's side.

Thanks to the Legacy Relationships report (in my handy dandy Excel workbook) which was crosschecked for quality control purposes - I have ten (10) first cousins once removed, four (4) first cousins twice removed and one (1) first cousin thrice removed. I am pretty confident that I have all our family members included, and it is a small number.

I want that extra credit Randy mentioned (and Legacy did all the hard work for me). My paternal great grandparents Lars Elofsson and Josephine Eriksen had two (2) children and my maternal great grandparents Valentin Kocevar and Antonia Zagradisnik had seven (7) children. 

I have sixty-three (63) second cousins - twenty-three (23) are second cousins, thirty-nine (39) are second cousins once removed, and one (1) is a second cousin thrice removed. I also have four (4) third cousins.

I am sure and, in light of the small numbers, I hope I don't have everyone. That is one of the reasons I blog. In answer to Randy's question, I do care about any missing cousins as I want our family history to be inclusive. So, if any of these names are familiar, we might be related - so contact me! 

There you have it, Saturday Night Genealogy Fun, part two. It was much quicker counting cousins on the Swedish, Norwegian and Slovenian side of the family.

Mission Accomplished! 

Counting Cousins in SNGF, Part Two

Week 1 - My Family History Calendar

This week on my Scandia Musings Family History Calendar (or I need a prompt that will help me blog at least once a week!)

A few of the surnames and places you will see over the coming months on this calendar
Image made at Wordle.net - thanks

Thanks and a tip of the hat to Cheri Hudson Passey and Linda McCauley who both have used this idea to blog about their family members' birthdays and anniversaries. This type of project is a great way to check in with your genealogy database program and focus on a few family members each week.

I was lucky a few years back to spend some time at the Family History Library in Salt Lake City doing research (quite unexpectedly) on my Swedish and Norwegian relations. With the help of some wonderful consultants at the Scandinavian research desk and a few impromptu Saturday morning classes on Scandinavian research, I was well on my way to tracking down my ancestors. The wonderful thing about Swedish and Norwegian family history research is that church and municipal records have been kept in pristine order and are available online. Due to the patronymic naming pattern and the fact that families rarely moved away from their small villages or farm, tracing family back several generations in Sweden and Norway might be time-consuming but it is always rewarding.

Since that first research trip I have traveled to Minnesota (where my ancestors who immigrated to the United States first made their homes) as well as North Dakota and Washington (when a few of the families continued their journey and finally settled). Research into this side of our family continues to be a fascinating project. In the process I have learned a great deal about the history and culture of Sweden, Norway, and Slovenia, picked up a bit of the language (in order to translate some of the records), and given thanks to the Lutheran Church for its excellent record-keeping both abroad and here in the United States.

Without further ado, here is my first entry in the Scandia Musings' Family History Calendar.

April 21 -
Bengt Olafsson [4385] (1737-unknown), my fifth great-grandfather was born on this day in 1737 in Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, Sweden. He was the son of Olaf Jonsson [4855] (1711-unknown) and Karin Hendricksdotter [4856] (1720-unknown) and the husband of Anna Halfvardsdotter [4386] (1757-unknown). Bengt and Anna had three children.

April 23 -
Peder Eriksen Hastagjerdet [412] (1833-1913) and Mali Pedersdatter Rolfsengbergene [413] (1835-1883), my second great-grandparents were married on this day in 1860 in Hegra, Ovre Stjordal, Nord-Trondelag, Norway. Peder's parents were Erik Ivarsen Medkilplass/Hastagjerdet [4269] and Marta Zakariasdatter Berget [4270]. Mali's parents were Peder Pedersen Kval [4697] and Mali Eriksdatter Skjelstadsveen [4698]. Peder and Mali had seven children. They emigrated from Norway through Canada to the United States, settling in Minnesota.

April 25 - 
Joseph Valentine Kochevar [902] (1914-1997), my great uncle was born on this day in 1914 in Taylor, King, Washington, USA. He was the son of Valentin Kocevar [897] (1874-1955) and Antonia Zagradisnik [898] (1886-1928).  Joe managed the family farm after his father's death, was a wonderfully kind man and terrific great uncle and as a hobby built beautiful model airplanes that he gave to family and friends.

April 26 -
Zakarias Eriksen of Hastagjerdet [4715] (1823-unknown), my second great-granduncle was born on this day in 1823 in Hegra, Ovre Stjordal, Nord-Trondelag, Norway. Zakarias' parents were Erik Ivarsen Medkilplass/Hastagjerdet [4269] and Marta Zakariasdatter Berget [4270].

Do we share any family members? If so, I would enjoy hearing from you and sharing information. Until next week ...

Week 1 - My Family History Calendar

SNGF - Ancestral Homes 150 Years Ago

It has definitely been awhile! Although I have posted on Google+ and been active in the Guild of One-Name Studies and the Legacy Virtual Users' Group, I am afraid I have let my blogging slide. Well it's time to get back in the saddle and why not start with some of Randy Seaver's Saturday Night Genealogy Fun.

The mission that I accepted (and yes you are hearing the Mission Impossible theme music) was as follows:

1) Determine where your ancestral families were on 1 June 1863 - 150 years ago.
2) List them, their family members, their birth years, and their residence location (as close as possible). Do you have a photograph of their residence from about that time, and does the residence still exist?
3) Tell us all about it in your own blog post, in a comment to this post, or in a Facebook Status or Google+ Stream post.

Here are my answers for the Norwegian, Swedish & Slovenia side of my family:

My second great-grandparents, Peder Eriksen, Hastajerdet (1833–1913) and Mali Pedersdatter, Rolfengbergene (1835–1881) resided on the Lille Kleven farm in Hegra, Øvre Stjørdal, Nord-Trøndelag, NORWAY. I have mapped the location of their village, and I have a photograph of the farm (Lille Kleven) and it still exists. In 1863 the household included my great grandaunt Mette Pedersdatter (1860–1961) and Elisæus Pedersen (1862–unknown) but my great grandmother Josephine Eriksen (1875–1905) did not arrive on the scene until 1875.

My third great-grandparents, Erik Ivarsen, Medkilplass/Hastagjerdet  (1796–1875) and Marta Zakariasdatter, Berget (1796–1895) resided on the Hastagjerdet farm in Hegra, Øvre Stjørdal, Nord-Trøndelag, NORWAY. I have mapped the location of their village, and I have a photograph of the farm (Hastagjerdet) and it still exists. In 1863, none of their children resided with them (as they were adults and married).

My second great-grandparents Elof Larsson (1833–1922) and Marit Larsdotter (1829–1906) resided on the Ormliden farm in Fastnäs, Norra Ny, Värmlands län, SWEDEN. I have mapped the location of their village, but I do not have a photograph and do not know if the farm still exists. The household included my great grandfather Lars Elofsson (1860–1926) and his two sisters Karin Elofsdotter (1856–1946) and Anna L. Elofsdotter (1863–1942).  

My second great-grandparents Anton Zagradisnik (1839–1918) and Anna Pevec (1840–unknown) resided Nova Stifta, , Slovenia, AUSTRIA. I have mapped the location of their village, but I do not have a photograph and do not know if their home still exists.  My great grandmother Antonia Zagradisnik (1886–1928) did not arrive on the scene until 1886. 

My second great-grandparents, Francis Kocevar (unknown–unknown) and Jenie Prisel (unknown–unknown) resided in Šmartno ob Dreti, Nazarje, Slovenia, AUSTRIA. I have mapped the location of their village, but I do not have a photograph and do not know if their home still exists.  My great grandfather Valentin Kocevar (1874–1955) did not arrive on the scene until 1874.

To check out the Irish side of my family go to my other blog, the Keough Corner.

SNGF - Ancestral Homes 150 Years Ago

Happy Thanksgiving

Hope you and yours have a great day today.  May everyone get to their destinations safely, enjoy the community of family and friends, share a great meal, tell stories, and make great memories.  And may those who did not clean, bake, cook or set the table, please do the dishes!

Today especially, may we remember to be thankful for those who came before us.  They made it possible for the rest of us to enjoy the many blessings this country has to offer.  Our country is not perfect and times are tough for many of our fellow Americans.  We certainly need to spend more time thinking about and solving our problems rather than pretending they don't exist or trying to get our piece of the pie at the expense of someone else.  The majority of us do not have ancestors who came over on the Mayflower.  The majority of us do have ancestors who came over in the 19th or 20th century.  The USA has and will always be a nation of immigrants ~ and that is a good thing. 

Today as we celebrate the first Thanksgiving, let all give thanks for those who made the trip here whenever they made the trip here.  

• Peder Eriksen & Mali Pedersdatter (arrival 1865 from Norway)
• Elof Larsson & Marit Larsdotter (arrival 1882 from Sweden)
• Valentin Kocevar & Antonia Zagradisnik (arrival 1903 & 1907 from Slovenia, Austria)

Thank you so much!

Created with Wordle.net ~ Thanks

Happy Thanksgiving

SNGF - My Heritage Pies

If it is Saturday you know that Randy Seaver has another bit of genealogy fun for us.  Did someone mention pie - I'm up for that! (This has been cross-posted to both my blogs.)

My mission (which I accepted) was to find my Sixteen Great-Great Grandparents in my genealogy database (thanks for the hint about using an Ancestors Report ~ after a bit of playing around with the options and then saving it in a text format I was able to add it to this post).  For extra credit I went over to the Kid Zone and used the chart generator to come up with my own Heritage Pies.  (Be sure to check out the original post referencing this cool website.)   Have some fun making your own pie!

Without further ado, here is a little something about my Sixteen Great-Great Grandparents.

16.  James KEOUGH [170], son of Andrew KEOUGH [187] and Catherine AYLWARD [188], was born in Aug 1824 in Plate Cove East, Bonavista Bay, , NEWFOUNDLAND and was baptized on 22 Aug 1824 in Plate Cove, Bonavista Bay, , NEWFOUNDLAND. I have not yet found his death date but I am pretty sure that he died in NEWFOUNDLAND.

17.  Margaret DOOLEY [171], daughter of James DOOLEY [3924] and Margaret MICHAN [3925], was born on 10 Nov 1832 in Knight's Cove, Bonavista Bay, , NEWFOUNDLAND and died on 17 Sep 1919 in Plate Cove East, Bonavista Bay, , NEWFOUNDLAND at age 86.

James and Margaret were married [MRIN: 60] on 31 Oct 1849 in King's Cove, Bonavista Bay, , NEWFOUNDLAND.

18.  Dennis DRISCOLL [1564].   To-date I do not have any information on his birth and death dates, he may have been born in either IRELAND or NEWFOUNDLAND, but I am pretty sure he died in NEWFOUNDLAND.

19.  Ellen KENNY [1565] was born about 1832 in Saint John's, , , NEWFOUNDLAND, died on 30 Mar 1902 in Plate Cove, Bonavista Bay, , NEWFOUNDLAND about age 70, and was buried in Open Hall, Bonavista Bay, , NEWFOUNDLAND.

Dennis and Ellen were married [MRIN: 508] in NEWFOUNDLAND.  I do not have their marriage date.

20.  James Joseph MURPHY [352], son of Patrick MURPHY [891] and Mary McCABE [892], was born on 19 Aug 1819 in County Carlow, Leinster, IRELAND, died on 13 Mar 1882 in Vesta, Johnson, Nebraska, USA at age 62, and was buried in Tecumseh, Johnson, Nebraska, USA (St. Andrew Catholic Cemetery, Tecumseh, Nebraska, USA).

21.  Eleanor KILEY [353] was born in Feb 1835 in County Cork, Munster, IRELAND, died on 24 Feb 1913 in Tecumseh, Johnson, Nebraska, USA at age 78, and was buried in Tecumseh, Johnson, Nebraska, USA (St. Andrew Catholic Cemetery, Tecumseh, Nebraska, USA).

James and Eleanor were married [MRIN: 10] on 28 Apr 1861 in Tecumseh, Johnson, Nebraska, USA.

22.  Michael Daniel O'MURPHY [354], son of Michael Daniel John O'MURPHY [889] and Mary HENNESY [890], was born on 8 Sep 1836 in County Kerry, Munster, IRELAND, died on 19 Aug 1926 in O'Neill, Holt, Nebraska, USA at age 89, and was buried on 22 Aug 1926 in O'Neill, Holt, Nebraska, USA (Calvary Catholic Cemetery, O'Neill, Nebraska, USA).

23.  Honora Agnes BUTLER [355], daughter of Thomas BUTLER [511] and Margaret HENIGAN [513], was born on 14 Mar 1840 in County Cork, Munster, IRELAND, died on 16 Aug 1925 in O'Neill, Holt, Nebraska, USA at age 85, and was buried on 19 Aug 1925 in O'Neill, Holt, Nebraska, USA (Calvary Catholic Cemetery, O'Neill, Nebraska, USA).

Michael and Honora were married [MRIN: 91] on 11 Jan 1861 in New York, New York, New York, USA.

24.  Elof LARSSON [847], son of Lars ELOFSSON [4274] and Anna HALVARDSDOTTER [4275], was born on 4 Sep 1833 in Fastnäs, Norra Ny, Värmlands län, SWEDEN, was baptized on 8 Sep 1833 in Fastnäs, Norra Ny, Värmlands län, SWEDEN, died on 22 Apr 1922 in Ward County, North Dakota, USA at age 88, and was buried in Waverly, Wright, Minnesota, USA.

25.  Marit LARSDOTTER [3412], daughter of Lars JÖNSSON [4290] and Ragnilda PERSDOTTER [4291], was born on 6 Jul 1829 in Stakerud, Ekshärad, Värmländs län, SWEDEN, was baptized on 12 Jul 1829 in Stakerud, Ekshärad, Värmländs län, SWEDEN, and died on 5 Mar 1906 in Woodland, Wright, Minnesota, USA at age 76.

Elof and Marit were married [MRIN: 248] on 27 Apr 1856 in Ekshärad, Värmlands län, SWEDEN.

26.  Peder ERIKSEN, Hastagjerdet [412], son of Erik IVARSEN, Medkilplass/Hastadgjerdet [4269] and Marta ZAKARIASDATTER, Berget [4270], was born on 29 Sep 1833 in Hegra, Øvre Stjørdal, Nord-Trøndelag, NORWAY, died on 5 Jul 1913 in Seattle, King, Washington, USA at age 79, and was buried on 7 Jul 1913 in Seattle, King, Washington, USA (Crown Hill Cemetery, Seattle, Washington, USA).

27.  Mali PEDERSDATTER, Rolfsengbergene [413], daughter of Peder PEDERSEN, Kvål [4697] and Mali ERIKSDATTER, Skjelstadsveen [4698], was born on 6 Apr 1835 in Hegra, Øvre Stjørdal, Nord-Trøndelag, NORWAY, was baptized on 10 May 1835 in Hegra, Øvre Stjørdal, Nord-Trøndelag, NORWAY, and died between 1881 and 1885 in Minnesota, USA.

Peder and Mali were married [MRIN: 270] on 23 Apr 1860 in Hegra, Øvre Stjørdal, Nord-Trøndelag, NORWAY.

28.  Francis KOCEVAR [2390] was born in AUSTRIA.  To-date I have not found his birth and death dates but I am pretty sure he died in AUSTRIA.  The family were Slovenes and their homeland was part of the Austria-Hungary empire during their lifetime.

29.  Jenie PRISEL [4650] was born in AUSTRIA.  To-date I have not found her birth and death dates but I am pretty sure she died in AUSTRIA.

Francis and Jenie were married [MRIN: 748] in AUSTRIA.  I do not have their marriage date.

30.  Anton ZAGRADISNIK [915] was born on 6 May 1839 in Gornji Grad, , , AUSTRIA and died in 1918 in AUSTRIA at age 79.  The family were Slovenes and their homeland was part of the Austria-Hungary empire during their lifetime. 

31.  Anna PEVEC [916] was born about 1840 in Bocna, , , AUSTRIA. To-date I have not found her death date but I am pretty sure she died in AUSTRIA.

Anton and Anna were married [MRIN: 265] in AUSTRIA.  I do not have their marriage date.

So for those of you keeping track here are the birth and death places for my Great Greats:

the birth places for my Great Greats break down as follows:

4 = Newfoundland

4 = Ireland

2 = Sweden

2 = Norway

4 = Austria (Slovenes)

the death places for my Great Greats break down as follows:

4 = Newfoundland

4 = Austria/Slovenia

2 = USA - Minnesota

4 = USA - Nebraska

1 = USA - North Dakota

1 = USA - Washington

And finally ~ here are my Heritage Pies

SNGF - My Heritage Pies

June Birthdays & Anniversaries

Each month I post a "roll call" of those who came before me ~ it is a listing of the birthdays and anniversaries of my Kocevar/Kochevar & Lidman ancestors who were born or married during the month. I use a cutoff year of 1910 for privacy concerns. As you can see Austria/Slovenia, Norway, Sweden, and the United States (Minnesota & Washington) are represented.

June Birthdays & Anniversaries by Wordle.net

Do we share any of the same ancestors? If so, I would love to hear from you and hear all about them.

1. John Carl LARSON [4301] (Jun 1885, Woodland, Wright, Minnesota, USA)
2. Sadie Edna NUTTALL [3443] (1 Jun 1895,  Minnesota, USA)
3. Mary Louise Strmonik [9238] (2 Jun 1902, Smartno ob Dreti, Nazarje, Slovenia, AUSTRIA)
4. Kerstin ANDERSDOTTER [4903] (4 Jun 1697, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
5. Peder Bang/Borstadmyren PEDERSEN and Anne Opem JOHNSDATTER [1666] (9 Jun 1806, NORWAY)
6. Milton Theodore LIDMAN [920] (9 Jun 1905, Seattle, King, Washington, USA)
7. Kjerstin LARSDOTTER [4292] (13 Jun 1830, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
8. Anna ELOFSDOTTER [3413] (14 Jun 1863, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
9. Lars ELOFSSON [4274] (21 Jun 1806, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
10. Karen ELOFSDOTTER [3415] (24 Jun 1856, Norra Loffstrand, Eksharad, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
11. Anna ERIKSEN [418] (25 Jun 1871, , Nicollet, Minnesota, USA)

Note: The number in brackets [ ] is the individual's RIN (record identification number) or the couple's MRIN (marriage record identification number) in my genealogy program. If there is a word after an individusl's name, it is his/her farm/village as listed in the Bygdebok.

Come back and check out next month's roll call.

June Birthdays & Anniversaries

May Birthdays & Anniversaries

Each month I post a "roll call" of those who came before me ~ it is a listing of the birthdays and anniversaries of my Kocevar/Kochevar & Lidman ancestors who were born or married during the month.  I use a cutoff year of 1910 for privacy concerns.  As you can see Austria/Slovenia, Norway, Sweden, and the United States (Minnesota, North Dakota & Washington) are represented.

May Birthdays & Anniversaries by Wordle.net

Do we share any of the same ancestors?  If so, I would love to hear from you and hear all about them.

1. Erik OLOFSSON and Ragnilla HALVARDSDOTTER [1550] (1 May 1702, Eksharad, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
2. Anton ZAGRADISNIK [915] (6 May 1839, Gornji Grad, , , AUSTRIA)
3. Anton ZAGRADISNIK [923] (6 May 1889, Nova Stifta, , , AUSTRIA)
4. Marit ELOFSDOTTER [4311] (9 May 1793, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
5. Marta ZAKRIASDATTER, Berget [4270] (17 May 1796, Hegra, Stjordal, Nord-Trondelag, NORWAY)
6. Nils LARSSON and Karin ENGELBREKTSDOTTER [1548] (22 May 1726, , Eksharad, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
7. Anders HAKANSSON [4340] (24 May 1737, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
8. John F. KOVASH [2366] (25 May 1910, Renton, King, Washington, USA)
9. Peder PEDERSEN, Kval and Mali ERIKSDATTER, Skjelstadsveen [1460] (26 May 1825, Hegra, Stjordal, Nord-Trondelag, NORWAY)
10. Victor Emanuel MATTSON [3418] (27 May 1883, , , Minnesota, USA)
11. Abigail STEVENSON [3429] (27 May 1890, , , North Dakota, USA)
12. Lars ELOFSSON (Louis LIDMAN) and Josephine ERIKSEN [247] (28 May 1902, , Wright, Minnesota, USA)
13. Casper Charles KRAVAGNA [2369] (28 May 1910, , , Washington, USA)
14. Britta PERSDOTTER [4314] (31 May 1799, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)

Note:  The number in brackets [ ] is the individual's RIN (record identification number) or the couple's MRIN (marriage record identification number) in my genealogy program.  If there is a word after an individusl's name, it is his/her farm/village as listed in the Bygdebok.

Come back and check out next month's roll call.

May Birthdays & Anniversaries

April Birthdays & Anniversaries

Each month I post a "roll call" of those who came before me ~ it is a listing of the birthdays and anniversaries of my Kocevar/Kochevar & Lidman ancestors who were born or married during the month. I use a cutoff year of 1910 for privacy concerns. As you can see Austria/Slovenia, Norway, Sweden, and the United States (Minnesota) are represented.

April Birthdays & Anniversaries by Wordle.net

Do we share any of the same ancestors? If so, I would love to hear from you and hear all about them.

1. John N. JOHNSON [4407] (Apr 1861, SWEDEN)
2. Albert E. LARSON [4297] (Apr 1877, , Wright, Minnesota, USA)
3. Erik HANSEN and Mali LARSDATTER [1484] 5 Apr 1774, , Nord-Trondelag, NORWAY)
4. Ernest William LIDMAN [825] (5 Apr 1903, Lake Mary, , Minnesota, USA)
5. Mail PEDERSDATTER, Rolfsengbergene [413] (6 Apr 1835, Hegra, Ovre Stjordal, Nord-Trondelag, NORWAY)
6. Jons NILSSON [4356] (8 Apr 1818, Nedre Varnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
7. Elof GUDMUNDSSON and Marit LARSDOTTER [1352] (9 Apr 1716, , Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
8. Halfvard PERSSON [4322] (12 Apr 1836, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
9. Alfred SWANSON [879] (15 Apr 1866, SWEDEN)
10. Rudolph John ZAGRADISNIK [921] (17 Apr 1885, Nova Stifta, , , AUSTRIA)
11. Bengt OLAFSSON [4385] (21 Apr 1737, , Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
12. Hannah M. MATTSON [3419] (21 Apr 1885, Woodland, Wright, Minnesota, USA)
13. Peder ERIKSEN, Hastagjerdet and Mail PEDERSDATTER, Rolfsengbergene [270] (23 Apr 1860, Hegra, Ovre Stjordal, Nord-Trondelag, NORWAY)
14. Elof LARSSON and Marit LARSDOTTER [248] (27 Apr 1856, , Eksharad, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
15. Alfred SWANSON and Anna ERIKSEN [324] (29 Apr 1891, , , Minnesota, USA)
16. Reuben E. SWANSON [1024] (29 Apr 1896, , , Minnesota, USA)
17. Per Elofsson [4310] (30 Apr 1789, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)

Note: The number in brackets [ ] is the individual's RIN (record identification number) or the couple's MRIN (marriage record identification number) in my genealogy program. If there is a word after an individual's name, it is his/her farm/village as listed in the Bygdebok.

Come back and check out next month's roll call.

April Birthdays & Anniversaries

March Birthdays & Anniversaries

Each month I will post a "roll call" of those who came before me ~ it is a listing of the birthdays and anniversaries of my Kocevar/Kochevar & Lidman ancestors who were born or married during that month. I use a cutoff year of 1910 for privacy concerns. As you can see Norway, Slovenia, Sweden, and the United States (Minnesota) are represented.

March Name Wordle made with Wordle.net ~ thanks

Do we share any of the same ancestors? If so, I would love to hear from you and hear all about them.

1.  Clifford L. POST [1472] (Mar 1881, , , Wisconsin, USA)
2.  Ruth JOHNSON [4428] (Mar 1893, , , Minnesota, USA)
3.  Alice SWANSON [1023] (Mar 1894, , , Minnesota, USA)
4.   Lars ELOFSSON [4313] (5 Mar 1797, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
5.   Elsie STEVENSON [3627] (5 Mar 1893, , , Minnesota, USA)
6.   Kjerstin NILSDOTTER [4355] (11 Mar 1817, Nedre Varnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
7.   Albert Reginal SWANSON [1016] (13 Mar 1892, Minneapolis, Hennepin, Minnesota, USA)
8.   Anna ELOFSDOTTER [4312] (14 Mar 1800, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
9.   Eugenia C. BAKER [1058] (17 Mar 1895, , , Kansas, USA)
10. Edward MATTSON [3422] (18 Mar 1892, , Wright, Minnesota, USA)
11. Josephine ERIKSEN [846] (20 Mar 1875, , Nicollet, Minnesota, USA)
12. Erik IVERSEN, Medkilplass [4269] (Mar 1796, Hegra, Ovre Stjordal, Nord-Trondelag, NORWAY)
13. Mary Erickson MARK [1466] (31 Mar 1883, , , Minnesota, USA)

Note: The number in brackets [ ] is the individual's RIN (record identification number) or the couple's MRIN (marriage record identification number) in my genealogy program. If there is a word after an individual's name, it is his/her farm/village listed in the Bygdebok.

Come back and check out next month's roll call!

March Birthdays & Anniversaries

Remembering My Great Grandfather - Valentin Kocevar

Today is St. Valentine's Day.  It is also the anniversary of my great grandfather's birth back in 1874.  When I was a child, my grandmother told us that we were Yugoslavian on her side and later when Yugoslavia "fell apart" she mentioned that our ancestors were the Slovenians.  I thought on the anniversary of my great grandfather's birth I would share his story as told through the paper trail.

Valentin Kocevar

(14 Feb 1874 - 16 Mar 1955)

My great grandfather was born on February 14, 1874 in Smartno ob Dreti, Nazarje, Slovenia, Austria.  His parents were Francis Kocevar and Jenie Prisel (they are listed as his parents on his marriage license).  We know he had at least one brother as one of his nephews came to the America, but we do not know anything about his siblings.  In fact we know very little about his life in Austria ~ my great aunt told me recently that she thought her father served in the Austrian military before coming to America, but we don't have any information at this point to confirm her recollection.  His last residence was Sentjost, Slovenia, Austria.

My great grandfather came to the United States on October 4, 1903.  Valentin traveled aboard the S.S. La Touraine, sailing from Harve, France on September 26, 1903 and arriving in New York on October 4, 1903. How he got from Austria to France is still a mystery.

SS La Touraine

The Ship's Manifest shows at line 22 ~ Valentin Kocevar - 29, male, single, farmer, able to read and write, Slovene, last residence St. Josta [Sentjost], traveling to Black Diamond [Washington], contact ~ a friend Johan Dobnik, Box 612, Black Diamond. 

Manifest for SS La Touraine

On the trip over Valentin met Rudolph Zagradisnik, a fellow Slovene, who also traveled to Black Diamond.  My understanding is that they took trains across country.  Rudolph later introduced him to his future wife (and Rudolph's sister).  The story goes that Rudolph suggested that his sister Antonia (who remained in Austria) would make a good wife for Valentin (Rudolph was a bit of a matchmaker).  Rudolph and Valentin made arrangements for her to come to the United States. 

Antonia Zagradisnik arrived in the United States on June 28, 1907, traveled via train across the county, and arrived in Washington in July 1907.  After a one month courtship and on August 31, 1907, Valentin and Antonia were married at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Roman Catholic Church in Seattle, Washington.

Valentin Kocevar & Antonia Zagradisnik
Their Wedding Day

The Marriage Certificate has not only their marriage information but also their signatures.  The Marriage Return on file in King County, Washington lists Valentin Kocevar's parents as Francis Kocevar and Jenie Prisel and Antonia Zagradisnik's parents as Anthony Zagradisnik and Annie Pevec.  Their ages are off on the Return but it also appears that document was not filled in by the couple ~ the rest of the information clearly shows this Return is for the correct couple.

The 1910 Federal census found Valentin and Antonia in Sherwood, King County, Washington.  They had been married three years and had two children ~ Mary Kocevar (18 months) and my grandmother Antonia Kocevar (2 months).  Valentin was employed in the the coal mines in the Ravensdale area and he rented his home.

1910 US Census ~ Ancestry.com

Mary & Antonia Kocevar
I love this picture of my grandmother on the chair!

In 1914 Valentin became a U.S. citizen as evidenced by his Petition and Order of Naturalization filed in the State of Washington.

The paper trail led me to his World War I military registration card dated September 12, 1918 and filled out in Seattle, King County, Washington.  He listed his birth date as February 13, 1874 and stated that he was a naturalized citizen.  He continued to be employed as a coal miner in Taylor, King County, Washington.  His physical description was "tall, medium build, with brown eyes an black hair."

World War I Draft Registration Card ~ Ancestry.com

The 1920 Federal census found Valentin and Antonia on their farm in Hobart, King County, Washington.  By this time they had been married thirteen years and had an additional  five children for a total of seven children ~ Mary (age 11), Antonia (age 9), Anne Margaret (age 8), Aloysius Valentine (age 7), Joseph (age 5), Christina (age 3) and Edward (11 months).  My great grandfather saved his money and in 1915 purchased  land for a farm and paid off his mortgage in record time.  Over time, my great grandparents built their home,  barn, and other outbuildings..  In addition to working his farm with Antonia, Valentin continued to be employed as a coal miner.  My grandmother told us that he started early in the morning with farm chores, had breakfast and then walked to mines, worked all day, and then walked home.  Antonia worked the farm and took care of the children.

1920 US Census ~ Ancestry.com

My great grandparents were married for 21 years until Antonia's death in 1928.

Valentin & Antonia on their 20th Wedding Anniversary

this photo was taken at their farm

The following year their son Aloysius died at the age of 16 while a patient at Medicine Lake in Spokane, Washington.  Louis, as he was known, had been placed there the previous year due to complications associated with epilepsy.  His death was heartbreaking to his father and siblings and continued to be a source of sadness to my grandmother throughout her life.  

The 1930 Federal census found my great grandfather and 4 of his children on their farm in Hobart, King County, Washington where he continued to be employed as a coal miner.

1930 US Census ~ Ancestry.com

My great grandfather died on March 16 1955 at the age of 81.  His obituary stated in part:

• Mr. Kochevar, who was 81 years old, was born in Yugoslavia and came to this county in 1903.  He was employed in mines in Black Diamond, Ravensdale and Taylor before acquiring a farm 40 years ago.  His wife, Antonia, died in 1928.  Two sons and four daughters as well as 12 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter survived him.
  
  
  

  

  Valentin Kocevar 

  
  

While the paper trail is just a small part of my great grandfather's story, it provides a wealth of information I otherwise would not have not known.  His military registration contained a physical description (at the age of 44) as well as his signature; his certificate of citizenship included witness names and information regarding his background; the censuses contained the names and ages of family members, home addresses and farm schedule information from when he lived in Sherwood and Hobart, King County, Washington; his marriage certificate and citizenship paperwork contained the names and addresses of witnesses to his marriage and his character; and his obituary provided information about his funeral and burial.

My grandmother and great aunt were able to tell me stories and give me a better picture of Valentin.  He took a child with him whenever he went to Seattle to purchase staples, including coffee, pasta and olive oil.  When I asked why, my great aunt told me - "... well I never thought about it, but pa probably took me because he didn't speak American very well."  She also mentioned that my great grandparents spoke Slovenian at home whenever they did not want the children to know what they were talking about (a habit she and her husband also employed with their own family!).  She showed me my great grandmother's china pattern and my great grandfather's coffee mug ~ I was born after my great grandfather died but apparently we had something in common ~ a love of lots of strong coffee!

Antonia's china pattern

Valentin's coffee mug which held 24 ounces ~ he soaked biscotti in it - yum! 

My great grandparents purposefully settled in an area with a significant Slovenian community and kept up their ethnic and religious traditions.  On a recent visit to Maple Valley, I visited the cemetery where Valentin and Antonia are buried     

and walked the property that was the farm he purchased and worked throughout his life (which until recently remained in the family).

Valentin & Antonia's Farm

So today, on the anniversary of his birth a heartfelt thanks (Hvala lepa) to my great grandfather Valentin Kocevar, who had the drive and determination to travel via ship and train across Europe and the USA to start a new life in Washington and to make a better life for his descendants.     

Remembering My Great Grandfather - Valentin Kocevar

February Birthdays & Anniversaries

Each month I post a "roll call" of those who came before me ~ it is a listing of the birthdays and anniversaries of my Kocevar/Kochevar & Lidman ancestors who were born or married during that month. I use a cutoff year of 1910 for privacy concerns. As you can see Norway, Slovenia, Sweden, and the United States (Minnesota) are represented.

February Name Wordle made with Wordle.net ~ thanks

Do we share any of the same ancestors? If so, I would love to hear from you and hear all about them.

1.  Ida JOHNSON [4644] (Feb 1885, , , Minnesota, USA)
2.  Marit LARSDOTTER [4293] (1 Feb 1836, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
3.  Anders ELOFSSON [4309] (11 Feb 1786, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
4.  Kristina ELOFSDOTTER [3414] (13 Feb 1869, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
5.  Valentin KOCEVAR [897] (14 Feb 1874, Smartno ob Dreti, Nazarje, Slovenia, AUSTRIA-HUNGARY)
6.  Julianna DERNAC [922] (16 Feb 1889, Zabukovje, , , AUSTRIA)
7.  Antonia Anna KOCHEVAR [826] (17 Feb 1910, Taylor, King Washington, USA)
8.  Jon PERSSON [4320] (21 Feb 1831, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
9.  Lena C. BENSON [3424] (22 Feb 1890, SWEDEN)
10. Doris Marie Mark JONES [1468] (23 Feb 1910, Tacoma, Pierce, Washington, USA)
11. Marit BONDESDOTTER [4344] (26 Feb 1718, Nedre Varnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)

Note: The number in brackets [ ] is the individual's RIN (record identification number) or the couple's MRIN (marriage record identification number) in my genealogy program.  If there is a word after an individual's name, it is his/her farm/village listed in the Bygdebok.

Come back and check out next month's roll call!

February Birthdays & Anniversaries

January Birthdays & Anniversaries

January Name Wordle made with Wordle.net ~ thanks

This year I decided to add birthdays and anniversaries to my blog mix.  Each month I will post a "roll call" of those who came before me ~ it is a listing of the birthdays and anniversaries of my Kocevar/Kochevar & Lidman ancestors who were born or married during the month.  I use a cutoff year of 1910 for privacy concerns.  As you can see Norway, Slovenia, Sweden, and the United States (Minnesota) are represented.

Do we share any of the same ancestors? If so, I would love to hear from you and hear all about them.

1.  Oscar JOHNSON [4647] (Jan 1896, , ,  Minnesota, USA)
2.  Kjerstin PERSDOTTER [4319] 2 Jan 1829, Fastnas, Norry Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
3.  Frederick Lawrence ROBERTSON [3581] (3 Jan 1898, , Wright, Minnesota, USA)
4.  Peder PEDERSEN, Kval [4697] (Jan 1798, Hegra, Stjordal, Nord-Trondelag, NORWAY)
5.  Anna O. FALL [3587] (7 Jan 1905, Big Lake, Sherburne, Minnesota, USA)
6.  Olga C. STEVENSON [3482] (8 Jan 1898, , , Minnesota, USA)
7.  Pehr SONESSON [4861] (11 Jan 1763, Sodra Loffstrand, Eksharad, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
8.  Elof PERSSON [4315] (12 Jan 1819, Fastnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
9.  Rudolph John ZAGRADISNIK and Julianna DERNAC [267] (14 Jan 1909, Saint Clairsville, Belmont, Ohio, USA)
10. Ragnilda PERSDOTTER [4291] (18 Jan 1795, Stakerud, Eksharad, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
11. Halvard LARSSON and Christina PETERSON [1335] (20 Jan 1873, , Wright, Minnesota, USA)
12. Per JONSSON [4350] (25 Jan 1795, Nedre Varnas, Norra Ny, Varmlands lan, SWEDEN)
13. Clara Wilhelmina STEVENSON [3431] (25 Jan 1896, Clarissa, Todd, Minnesota, USA)


Note: The number in brackets [ ] is the individual's RIN (record identification number) or the couple's MRIN (marriage record identification number) in my genealogy program. If there is a word after an individual's name, it is his/her farm/village listed in the Bygdebok.

Come back and check out next month's roll call!

January Birthdays & Anniversaries