I just received birth records for 6 of my ancestors which included my Grandmother. Five of these were born in Gross Zirkwitz and one in Ploetzig (these 2 villages are very close together). They were born between the years 1872 and 1880 and included Maria Magdalena (all last name Schmidt), Michalina Thekla (my Grandmother), Paul George, Johann, Albertine Angelica (Bertha), and Martha Annastasia.
These were born to Martin Schmidt (born 1844, location?), and Catharina maiden name Behnke (born 1852, location?). Martin's Father was George Schmidt (one census shows born in 1810, location?), and Mother unknown? Catharina's parents were Frank Behnke (date and location of birth unknown?), and Maria Von Liser or maybe Liesser, Lusser, or?? (date and location of birth unknown?).
The family immigrated, he in 1881, and Catharina and 5 children in 1883 (not sure what happened to Johann??). They immigrated to Gilmanton, Benton County, Minnesota where they farmed. George (Martin's father) was with the family in 1885, but not sure what happened to him after that?? My understanding from relatives is that Catharina and some children spent some time in New York to make some money, and then it seems they also spent some time in St Paul, MN before moving to the farm, which they may have been building as they could afford to??
Looking for any possible connections from West Prussia, or Minnesota???
Thanks so much!!!
Tom McMillan (Washougal, WA)