Norwegian Genealogy: What to Look for and Where to Find It

Between 1825–1925, hundreds of thousands of Norwegians immigrated to North America. Millions of their descendants are curious about where in Norway their ancestors left, who they left behind, and how to uncover more of their family’s story. 

This session, geared to beginning and intermediate genealogists, contains an overview of the types of records available to family history researchers, where they are located, and how they can be used. We will also explore some traditions unique to Norwegians and their descendants that create opportunities for research possibilities. 

The primary topics to be covered in this 2-hour session include:

• Norwegian naming traditions: Many people find the patronymic naming system confusing. However, understanding this custom is critical to researching Norwegian families prior to 1900. Norway also had unique first name traditions that can be used as clues to find more family members. 
• Local history and geography and their impact on genealogy: The villages and regions our ancestors called home may not have the same name today as they did when our forebears left Norway. We will look at sources to help us understand municipal and church jurisdiction changes throughout history, as well as the traditional districts that we may find listed as the birthplace of our ancestors. 
• Norwegian Lutheran church records and the Norwegian Digital Archives: Norway had a state church that kept fantastic congregational records. These are usually the most valuable sources we use for genealogical research. We will look at some of the more common records and unique features that can be important clues to our research.
• Bygdebøker & other printed sources: Norway has a unique tradition of creating local histories that focus on the history of each farm in the community. Bygdebøker and other printed historical material can prove to be incredibly valuable genealogical resources.

After a lunch break, we’ll open the Reference Room, in Rølvaag Memorial Library so researchers can continue to explore. The resources at St. Olaf are primarily in Norwegian. While a handful of volunteers will be available for questions, one-on-one research assistance will not be possible. Please also note that the NAHA Archives are in a separate space and will be closed during the conference.