Author: Karrie Blees

Coat of Arms: Gentzkow

Coat of Arms: Gentzkow

One of my American immigrant ancestors, George Edward Gentzkow (aka Julius August Emil von Gentzkow), was born of the noblewoman Julie von Gentzkow. She demanded that his baptism record be amended and his lineal decent be properly acknowledged by the church. By this documentation process, … read more

One photo, or is it two?

One photo, or is it two?

Twenty-seven years ago, I visited my Great-Uncle Don, my grandfather’s youngest brother. Besides reminiscing, I wanted to view his collection of family photos. Using a tripod, I made photographic copies of his photos. There was one that was very difficult photograph because it was encased … read more

Two Photos: Boat Store

Two Photos: Boat Store

The Boat Store in Minneiska, Minnesota did not sell boats; it was a grocery and a meat market located on the bank of the Mississippi River.   J.C. Gentzkow and unidentified man, 1913   J.C., Rodney and Mary Gentzkow, undated   Boat Store in the … read more

Parents of Gert Rector

Parents of Gert Rector

Gillison “Gee” Rector and May “Pettris” Garnett were the parents of Florence Gertrude “Gert” Rector Gentzkow. What is known about Gee and Pettris?     Gert’s Father Gillison G. Rector was the 4th of 8 children born to Milton A. Rector (1855-1951) and Charlotte “Lottie” … read more

Vacation: Warning

Vacation: Warning

There is no blog post this week – I’m taking a little vacation.   When traveling, one should heed local advice.   Beware! Falling Coconuts   No coconuts fell on me that day (or any other day).     Sometimes my vacations are more unusual … read more

Roy Family Reunion

Roy Family Reunion

The Pike Hole Resort was the gathering place for a family reunion on June 15, 1941. Susan (Roy) Lydick had siblings from her mother’s first and second marriages. On that sunny day, they gathered together.   1941 Newspaper Clip   Roy – Gamache Clan Gathered … read more

Richert – Schröder Marriage

Richert – Schröder Marriage

Over the last several weeks, we’ve been looking at the parents of Konstantin Nörenberg. His father, Michael, was first married to Louise Ziemer. Konstantin’s mother, Louise Schröder, was married first to Gottfried Richert.     Gottfried Richert To date, not much is known about Gottfried … read more

Nörenberg – Ziemer Marriage

Nörenberg – Ziemer Marriage

Michael Nörenberg (c. 1840-1895) and Louise Schröder (c. 1845-1909) were the parents of Konstantin Nörenberg. Michael/Michał was first married to Louise/Ludwika Ziemer. Perhaps Michael’s marriage to Louise Ziemer will lead to a greater understanding of his early life.   Michael’s First Marriage The first place … read more

Remembering Marilynn

Remembering Marilynn

One year ago, my mother, Marilynn Gentzkow Norenberg (1933-2023) passed from this earthly realm to heaven. During her lifetime, mom helped so many people: students, neighbors, family, friends, and those she happened upon. When she was 82-years old, the Duluth News Tribune printed a story … read more

Nörenberg – Schröder Marriage

Nörenberg – Schröder Marriage

Michael Nörenberg (c. 1840-1895) and Louise Schröder (c. 1845-1909) were the parents of Konstantin Nörenberg. In Polish records, their names may be spelling Michał and Ludwika. In Russian: Майкл and Луиза. What is known of their marriage?   Marriage Michael Nörenberg and Louise Schröder’s marriage … read more