Are we German or French?

by Kendra
(Texas, USA)

I have my family traced back to Pieter Klein in 1575. He and several generations after him before they came to America are listed as being from Stiensall, also Stiemsall Alsace.A few are listed as Postorff, Alsace. I am having a hard time trying to figure out if they are German(which we've always believed) or French. There are so many different records listing Alsace as Alsace, Germany and Alsace, France. I'm just unsure of where exactly they were from. Thanks for any input!

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French or German
by: Suzele

Hi Kendra,

Someone else just asked me that question! ; )
But it's a valid question.

And the answer is it depends on the when.
Certain times Alsace was under French governance and sometimes it was under German governance.

It's good to know but ultimately Alsace is its own unique place that is neither one nor the other.

Ask anyone who isn't Alsatian and they'll tell you, Alsace is different!

I'm seriously considering offering some sort of primer or educational tool to those who would like to get a really feel for their Alsatian ancestors, their lives, their histories etc.

If that interests you, email me and let me know : )

Happy researching!
Suzele

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Pieter Klein
by: Stacy Cline

I've been researching this also. Pieter Klein is my grandfather 11 generations back. I live in Akron Ohio.

I'd love to hear your story. :)

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Klein - Postroff
by: Jim Lance

I am descended from Moritz Klein and Sebastian Lentz both of Postroff. You and I are probably distantly related. I am trying to find out if there are any Lentz's or Klein's still living in Postroff or Hirschland (or the surrounding area). Take care!

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