Since studying genealogy of my Swedish immigrant family I have encountered more interest and chatter about US immigrant name change stories occurring at Ellis Island than most any other topic. My 2020 book, My Maja A Grandson’s Tribute explores my journey to track my relatives coming from Sweden through Ellis Island eventually landing in Chicago.Continue reading “Swedes and Immigrant Name Change Stories: Facts, Myths, Mysteries, and Fun”
Category Archives: history
Swedish Immigrant Great Depression Kids- The Fallout
Grandma Maja was one of the finest teachers I have ever met. Her three children , Delores, Peter, and Linnea without a father learned the meaning of a lifestyle philosophy: “a stitch in time saves 9”. The incredibly hard times of America’s Great Depression tested the character of widow Maja and her three Swedish AmericanContinue reading “Swedish Immigrant Great Depression Kids- The Fallout”
Swedish Edge? Culture, Heritage, Tradition
I grew up believing that my very Swedish grandmother was invincible and slaying a dragon would be no big deal. Not that she spent one minute of our 21 years together trying in any way to convince me of her super powers. I somehow just knew she was like a knight, a powerful Viking SwedeContinue reading “Swedish Edge? Culture, Heritage, Tradition”
Grandma Maja’s Swedish Time Machine
My Grandma Maja, like so many Swedish grandparents might have secretly hoped to one day be remembered by her loved ones. Imagine her surprise to see her face portrayed on the cover of a book at her local library shelf. In Maja’s book are over 50 pages of favorite and meaningful images that bring MajaContinue reading “Grandma Maja’s Swedish Time Machine”
Swedish American Toughness Built on Strong Roots
My Swede Grandmother made a big decision by coming to America in 1922. She initially came just for a visit and looking for adventure. She stayed, quickly finding romance. And as they say, the rest is history. Her Swedish roots would grow an American dream that would be severely tested. Before 1900. Maja’s father’s brotherContinue reading “Swedish American Toughness Built on Strong Roots”
Swedish Women’s Hats: Simple Elegance
1948-1969 represents a time when I fell in love with everything about my very Swedish Grandmother, including her hats. I hope you enjoy a short journey exploring My Maja, as I focus on highlighting her stylish hats and reveal some family history. Grandma Maja was impressive in many ways. How I wish I would haveContinue reading “Swedish Women’s Hats: Simple Elegance”
Hidden Swedish Family Secrets
One of the big lessons that my Grandma Maja tried hard to teach me was: “We Swedes try to keep to ourselves and don’t share family business.” I won’t be a spoiler and take away suspense and prematurely share Grandma Maja’s hidden family secrets in this blog. I implore you to read our book instead.Continue reading “Hidden Swedish Family Secrets”
Maja's Blessings 