My people came from Denmark, from Scotland and Germany, Prussia, Poland and other places still to be found. They brought amazing stories of pain, hard work, creativity and beauty; and even some scandal and humor.

My people will not be forgotten, although most of them I have never met. I know some of their faces from wrinkled pictures and many of their stories from family legend.

My people had dreams and faith and fears. They hoped for a better life for their children. If I could reach back I would tell them they did well. My life is good because of their choices; their faith and their values. Well, done, you Leitches and Schmidts, Ulrichsens and Husars, you Butzkes and Reichows. Good job, you Koesters and Kennedys, you MacGregors and Morrisons! You will not be forgotten!

My people came from Denmark, from Scotland and Germany, Prussia, Poland and other places still to be found. They brought amazing stories of pain, hard work, creativity and beauty; and even some scandal and humor.

My people will not be forgotten, although most of them I have never met. I know some of their faces from wrinkled pictures and many of their stories from family legend.

My people had dreams and faith and fears. They hoped for a better life for their children. If I could reach back I would tell them they did well. My life is good because of their choices; their faith and their values. Well, done, you Leitches and Schmidts, Ulrichsens and Husars, you Butzkes and Reichows. Good job, you Koesters and Kennedys, you MacGregors and Morrisons! You will not be forgotten!