The Untold Story of the Brues, the Teigens, the Tjernagels, and the Wollans (1836-1959)

When we look back at our family histories, we often find fascinating tales buried within the depths of time. The Brues, the Teigens, the Tjernagels, and the Wollans stand as pillars of a captivating saga that unfolded over a span of 123 years, from 1836 to 1959.

Their journey began humbly, with John Brue, a courageous immigrant from Germany, who set foot on American soil in 1836. Despite the challenges he faced, John's perseverance enabled him to create a foundation upon which future generations would build a remarkable legacy.

John Brue: The Pioneer

In the vast expanse of the American Midwest, John Brue carved his path to success. His unwavering determination and entrepreneurial spirit allowed him to establish a thriving farm, which served as the launchpad for his descendants' achievements.

Norwegian Families Becoming American: The Brues, the Teigens, the Tjernagels, and the Wollans, 1836-1959

by Premilla Nadasen(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	27257 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	156 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

John's tenacity resonated with his offspring, who continued to expand the family's horizons. In the late 19th century, his daughter Emma Teigen, along with her husband Johan Teigen, ventured into the unpredictable realm of commerce, opening a successful general store that catered to the growing needs of their community.

Emma Teigen: A Maverick Merchant

Emma Teigen, a visionary businesswoman ahead of her time, recognized the untapped potential of her small town. With her sharp acumen and unwavering determination, she transformed their modest store into a bustling hub of economic activity.

The Teigen General Store became not only a place for essential goods but also a social gathering spot where neighbors bonded over shared experiences. From supplying farmers with their equipment to providing a haven for travelers passing through, Emma's establishment offered much more than products on shelves.

The Tjernagels: Weaving a Different Story

Meanwhile, another remarkable family was weaving their own narrative adjacent to the Brues and the Teigens. The Tjernagels, known for their craftsmanship in the art of weaving, brought a touch of elegance to the town's fabric. Their intricate designs found their way into the homes of prominent families and dignitaries, elevating the small community's reputation.

Hannah Tjernagel, the family's matriarch, was meticulous in her craft—an artist with a loom. Her creations were highly sought after and garnered regional acclaim. From stunning tapestries that depicted captivating scenes to intricately designed blankets that offered warmth and comfort, the Tjernagels quickly established themselves as esteemed artisans.

The Wollans: Meshing Hearts and Minds

While the Brues, the Teigens, and the Tjernagels each held their unique positions within the community, fate brought forth a union that would intertwine their lives even further. The merging of the Wollan family, hailing from a neighboring town, with these prosperous lineages sparked a newfound era of growth and innovation.

Young Grace Wollan, a questing mind seeking knowledge and adventure, crossed paths with Jacob Brue, a enterprising spirit seeking to explore unexplored domains. Their union intertwined their families through marriage, forging bonds that would transcend mere bloodlines.

To them, their wedding day encapsulated more than just their personal commitment; it signaled the blending of minds, ideas, and paths that led to uncharted territories.

A Legacy for Generations

Together, the Brues, the Teigens, the Tjernagels, and the Wollans embarked on a journey that stitched together a rich tapestry of experiences, shaping the community's culture and defining their lineage.

From their humble beginnings as pioneers to their contributions as merchants, artisans, and catalysts of progress, these families left an indelible mark on the towns they called home. They built schools, established traditions, and explored new endeavors at the forefront of their respective fields.

Although the passages of time may dim the memory of their names, the legacy they created endures. Their stories serve as testaments to the determination of individuals overcoming obstacles, the spirit of entrepreneurship driving progress, and the power of unity in building prosperous communities.

The Roots from which We Blossom

As we reflect upon our own backgrounds, it becomes apparent that the accomplishments and sacrifices of those who came before us provide a strong foundation upon which we stand today. The Brues, the Teigens, the Tjernagels, and the Wollans have left an indelible mark on our history.

By cherishing their heritage and carrying their spirits forward, we honor their contributions and ensure that future generations will understand the remarkable story of these families. A story that began with a brave immigrant seeking a better life and unfolded into a tapestry of resilience, intellect, and community.

Norwegian Families Becoming American: The Brues, the Teigens, the Tjernagels, and the Wollans, 1836-1959

by Premilla Nadasen(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	27257 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	156 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Emigrating from Norway between 1856 and 1873, the Brues, Teigens, Tjernagel, and Wollans established themselves in Iowa, Minnesota, and Washington. Drawing upon capsule biographies of 295 of these immigrants and their descendants, this book sketches how four Norwegian families became Americans.