From the mid 1840’s
through the 1930’s
population pressures, crop failures, divided inheritances, and
other social ills caused one
fifth of the population or approximately 1,200,000 people to leave
Sweden. Although the emigration was supported by most provinces the
majority of the emigrants came from the provinces of Skåne,
Blekinge, Småland, Öland, Östergötland, Halland, Älvsborgs
Län, Dalsland, Värmland, and Hälsingland.
To know your
roots, your heritage and history is important to everyone’s
personal development. With today’s technology it is easier
than ever before to learn where your ancestors came from and to
visit that
location. What a thrill to find the church or homestead of your
ancestors.
In Värmland,
Småland and Hälsingland,
for example you will find emigrant houses, institutes and museums
making this history
come alive. It’s possible to combine this research with
a visit to the Norwegian Fjords, north of Sweden for the midnight
sun, and
the Sami people, an overnight cruise to Helsinki or one of many
options to create the travel experience of a lifetime
By rental
car from Stockholm drive north via Uppsala, the medieval
capital and home of the largest university, then on to the
province of Hälsingland. Alfta, home of the House of Migrants
located in an 18th century farmhouse, features three old style
farmhouses,
a wooden
storehouse, and a café. Continue your journey to the
province of Dalarna to view the works of world famous artists
Carl Larsson
and Anders Zorn. Stop at Nusnäs to paint your own Dala
Horse before heading southwest into the province of Värmland.
The staff at the Kinship Center in Karlstad may be able to
assist you with further
genealogical research. The Värmland Museum, and Selma
Lagerlöf’s
Mårbacka are but a few of the highlights. Conclude your
visit via highway E18 toward Stockholm.
From Stockholm drive
southwest to Vadstena to spend a night in a 13th century
convent, before continuing to the province
of
Småland.
In the city of Växjö visit the Småland Glass
Museum, and the House of Emigrant’s where additional
genealogical research may be possible. A visit to one of
the many glass factories in the
area should be included before entering the province of Skåne.
In Lund visit the university and the cathedral before continuing
to Copenhagen via the Öresund Bridge to return your
rental car.
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