Central ND News

Johan Stenslie, a professional genealogist originally from Mandan, North Dakota and now based in Bergen, Norway, will speak at the Bismarck Veterans Memorial Public Library on August 13. The event is part of Crossings 200, which marks the 200th anniversary of the first organized Norwegian immigration to North America.

Stenslie’s presentation will include stories about Norwegian immigrant families and live music performances related to the Norwegian-American experience. He will also share research tips for those interested in tracing their family history. A question-and-answer session will follow his talk.

The event is co-sponsored by the Sons of Norway Sverdrup Lodge and the Bismarck Veterans Memorial Public Library. Admission is free and open to people of all ages.

According to organizers, “Crossings 200 commemorates two centuries of organized Norwegian migration to North America, celebrating the strong ties between Norway, the United States, and Canada. It is a time to reflect on what it means to take significant risks and exchange one home for another, as well as to gain a deeper understanding of the movement of people that continues worldwide today.”

For more information about this event or other library programs, visit https://bismarcklibrary.org/2221/For-the-Media or follow updates at https://facebook.com/bismarcklibrary/.

“Whether or not you have Norwegian roots, we invite you to join us and learn more!” organizers said.