Great-Grandfather Emigrated from Groningren

Question

Are there any Dutch history experts out there? I'm curious to learn the major events in Groningren during the late 19th and early 20th century that might have motivated his decision to leave? Was there tremendous poverty or famine? Was there an illness outbreak? Was there religious persecution or an authoritarian leader?

I've read pieces about the significant migration of people from the Netherlands to New Jersey, but haven't found strong sources to reflect the current events of the time. I know it's impossible to truly know his motivation, but I'd like to be educated on the possible considerations.

With thanks,
Rhyan

Answer 1

Hi Rhyan,

As you already stated there could have been many reasons for your grandfather to migrate. Not only events in time. One of the reasons could be that he was the second son. So he couldn’t stay on the farm of his parents, because that would be reserved for his brother. Or he just wanted some adventure. Over time you see many people leaving in a certain period of time. I will try to see of something specific is related to Groningen around 1900 but I’m not certain if there’s anything that can explain his leaving the country.

Comments

I’ve found a document in the Groninger Archives that is written about emigration in general. Unfortunately it’s in Dutch and too large to translate but this is also not giving any specific information for Groningen. That period of time was the second big wave of emigration, and mostly driven by the circumstances in the northern provinces. https://www.groningerarchieven.nl/images/scriptieprijs/DGG2019-scriptie-PJKoning.pdf#page18

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I added some profiles related to his mother Marijke Alles. All were 'dagloners' which means: paid per day and no security. Poverty all over. It is in Dutch, Google translate will be helpful .

Answer 2

I think the ancestry of Cornelius Buikema needs to be adjusted. See my comment on his profile.

Comments

I agree, sent it via private message.

Answer 3

It wasn't this Cornelis who emigrated, it was his father and his family came along. At the birth of this Cornelis, (see https://www.wiewaswie.nl/nl/detail/18896519 ) as well as his brother Jan (John, see https://www.wiewaswie.nl/nl/detail/19235639 ) he was 'daglooner', day laborer. Almost anything could be an improvement, even more so as machinery was making it's way into agriculture, of mayor importance around Leens.

I will send you a direct message via de profile of his father, there are some inconsistencies.