Genealogy Session

Norwegian Patronymic Names vs Farm Names Speaker: Dana Kelly Free for Swedish American Genealogical Society members. Have you ever wondered why your Norwegian ancestors seemed to change their names from one record to another? Understanding the difference between Norwegian farm names and family names is essential for successful Norwegian genealogy research. Join Dana Kelly, Executive Director of the Norwegian American Genealogical Center & Naeseth Library, for an informative Zoom presentation exploring the unique Norwegian naming traditions that often challenge family historians. Learn how farm names were used, why surnames changed from generation to generation, and how understanding these customs can help you accurately trace your Norwegian ancestry. Dana oversees the daily operations of the Norwegian American Genealogical Center & Naeseth Library and is actively involved in outreach and educational programming. Her passion for family history led her to earn a degree in Scandinavian Studies from the University of Wisconsin at Madison, where she learned to speak, read, and write Norwegian. Dana's specialties include: She has served on the Board of Directors of the Koshkonong Prairie Historical Society since 2009 and currently serves as Vice President of the Dane County Area Genealogical Society. Dana is a sought-after speaker who has presented for: Whether you are just “found” Norwegians in your Swedish family history journey or have years of Scandinavian research experience, this presentation will provide valuable insights into one of the most important aspects of Norwegian genealogy. Register today and discover the story behind your Norwegian ancestors' names!