Welcome!Thank you for your interest in the Oregon Chapter of The American Historical Society of Germans from Russia (AHSGR). Our organization is a resource for learning about the rich history and heritage of this ethnic group.
Migrating primarily from the German speaking areas of Western Europe beginning in the 1760's, these colonists settled in many parts of the Russian Empire where they built stable communities, established farms, churches, schools and businesses in their new homeland. In the late 19th century, many of these ethnic Germans looked to the Americas to find new opportunities, escape political repression and preserve their way of life. By the early 1880's these pioneers were moving west and many made their new homes in the Pacific Northwest. The Germans from Russia became an integral part of the diverse fabric of Oregon and Southwest Washington. We hope that you will join us to explore the culture, history and heritage of the Germans from Russia and become active in its preservation. 
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Upcoming Events
April 23, 2022 @ 2 pmSt. Michael's Lutheran Church, 6700 NE 29th Ave, Portland, OR (next to Concordia University)
Trudy Walter Carlson: No Country No Home Trudy Walter Carlson is from a Besserabian family that eventually ended up in Portland. Trudy will discuss her book about her family's journey and the process she went through in writing it. If you'd like to read her book beforehand, you can order it at either of the links below: Amazon Dorrance Publishing Trudy will also have copies on hand for sale. "No Country No Home" is a Memoir about two sister's and their family accounts that will open your eyes to their personal stories that were unorthodox to the traditional accounts of WWII as Germans. After the upheaval of the advancing Russian army forcing them to flee their flourishing farms, they found themselves put into captivity by their own government under Hitler’s rule. The escape from their condition left them on the move from one country and village after another as they continually survived invading armies. This memoir is full of deep moments to leave you with an inspiration to grow, love others around you, and have faith no matter the circumstances of the origin of your blood. It's the story of a family of immigrants and the difficulties they experienced after immigrating to an America that didn't understand their cultural differences. A story of how the traditions and German upbringing affected the next generation and continues throughout the next generations. It's both nature and nurture without bells and whistles. |
Last updated April, 5, 2022.