Bo,

The foster father you mentioned is someone that I have as possibly Karl's (step) uncle....I don't have any sources to back it up on paper yet, though. But that would definitely make sense.

What are the page numbers and other numbers you referenced? I saw mention of 1895 and 1892, which happen to be the two years in which I am trying to find a ship manifest with Karl's mother and stepfather (Ester Charlotta and Sven Johan) Their 1910 census record states they arrived here in 1895, but they are listed in the Swedish emigration records in 1892.

Would it be normal for there to be that much of a difference in dates? Also wondering about the birth date with that....everything from this side of the ocean seems to have a birthdate of 11 Dec 1881, but everything on that side has 23 Dec 1881. I start to worry I'm researching the wrong Karl over there! But then all the place names match up, and whatnot, and I know Ester and Sven ended up here in Philly - I located their graves via their 1912 and 1914 death certificates. They lived right around the block from the addresses I have for my verified Karl here. Ugh....I'm just so unsure of things, and I feel stupid asking y'all all these questions!! I really appreciate all the help though :)

What is the best resource for me to access the Swedish parish records, household examinations, etc? And do I have any chance, as a newbie to all of this, at navigating them successfully? I look at all this info and wonder if I'm in over my head!! :)