Replies

If someone wants to know about Sweden, I might just be the one to ask. I have kind of a goofy general question for you. My father's mother was from Smaland, a small town called Ryd. She emigrated to the US in the 1890s. Part of her family remained behind and apparently their descendants are still living there -- at least there are Dahlboms still living in Ryd, and as that's an unusual surname I assume they're related to me. I've always wanted to go for a visit and meet up with my cousins. Here's my question: if an American showed up on a Swede's doorstep one fine morning claiming to be a long lost relative, what sort of reception would he get? I realize that different individuals react differently, of course, and there may not be a general rule in this situation, but I'm interested in your opinion.

>if an American showed up on a Swede's doorstep one fine morning claiming to be a long lost relative, what sort of reception would he get?

Been there, done that. The reactions are not predictable. Some welcome you, some act like you are looking for money from some lost Will. Europeans in general are FAR more reserved than we are, and not inclined to talk to strangers. Best to write ahead if you can and gauge the temperature of the water. Once you have met some of your local relatives, and they tell others, meeting the others may be easier.

if an American showed up on a Swede's doorstep one fine morning claiming to be a long lost relative, what sort of reception would he get?

You'd probably get a warm welcome (I know my family would in that situation), but I think you'd better have more to say than that you "assume they're related" to you. But of course, nobody can guarantee that the Dahlboms in Småland will greet you with open arms. It's always fun to travel back through your familys history (I'm related to the tsars of Russia myself) and if you'd wish to explore your Swedish roots there are plenty of good organisations where you can get help. I can't give you any references right now though, but if your interested I can see if I can give you some pointers.