|
I started to research my family 'Roots' in 1993, and didn't even have a photograph of my Grandfather who migrated from Malax in Finland in 1897, so you can say that I started off from 'scratch'.
My Grandfather, Johannes Jonasson Styris, came to New Zealand, via Australia (it is said, but cannot find any record of such) in 1897, worked as a Waggoneer (bullock-team driver) on the making of the road through the bush in Wairarapa, North Island of New Zealand. From there he worked on the Railhead of the Main Trunk rail-line at Ohakune, and finally for the County Council of Wanganui, on the road through the Parapara Mountain range north of Wanganui.
He died at the age of 81 in Wanganui, on the 9 November 1957.
From my Grandfather I have traced the family back in Finland to aprox. 1580 and ALWAYS are keen to add any information whatsoever, to my work.
I must mention at this point, that my work would not be as complete if it wasn't for some great help and information that was supplied by people in New Zealand, United States of America and Finland.
In August 2001, my wife and I travelled back to Malax, Finland and had the great joy of actually visiting the 'Family Farm' in Malax. The local people were marvelous and gave us a great welcome, and show us arround the local area, we meet so many wonderful people who all offered us great hospitality and friendliness.
|
