Dennis R Winge

In Search of a New Scandinavia - The Story of the Norwegian Winge Immigrant Family Dennis R Winge

Norwegian emigration in the 1800s described in terms of a family from the Skatval parish in Nord-TrØndelag. The Vinges had been a successful farming family for eight generations in Skatval prior to their departure to America. During a period in Norwegian history when many individuals were forced to lease land and live as economic slaves, the Vinges were stable, independent landholders. However, the lure of abundant, inexpensive land motivated their decision to vacate their homeland. Their emigration and subsequent pioneering in Goodhue and Lac qui Parle Counties in Minnesota is a story typical of Norwegian families. The enclave of the Vinge - who became the Winge - family in the Wanamingo Township in Goodhue County became a new Scandinavia for them. Considerable emphasis is placed on the family life in Norway and in pioneer settlements in Minnesota as well as history of the Norwegian Lutheran Church, especially the Hauge Synod in America. Christianity was a central focus in the lives of Norwegian pioneers, including the Winges. The book ends with a genealogy of the Winge family.