I was always interested in family but didn’t catch onto comments my parents made and food they cooked that were clues to what I eventually found. Like many other people who investigate their family origins, I wish I would have asked more when I could have. When my parents passed, I realized how many questions I had! I scoured diaries, address books and backs of photos for clues (all written in Hungarian).  After hours of transcribing and using a translation program, I finally understood the main ideas. I found people who could find and send records from faraway places for both of my parents’ families. Finally, I found my grandmother and grandfather in Hungary. They and the rest of the family were in the Swabian villages of Schonthal, Wahlei, Darotz, Gilwatsch and Maitingen.  

The great thing about discovering family history, for me, isn’t only finding out who my ancestors have been.  It’s more than names and dates and places – it’s finding our story. I love putting together facts from primary resource research, but also looking at the cultures, traditions, and what was happening in different periods in time. I read anything I can find to help me understand what my ancestors were experiencing in Sathmar…in their village, country and the world.  It’s so interesting to me to build a genuine story about family. I’m so happy that I found this friendly group where we can share our experiences and love for our families. I’ve learned I hope that I can help others the way I’ve been helped.  If you ever have questions, have extra information or just want to chat, feel free to send me an email using the link in the contact registry. Enjoy the site!