Decade by Decade

1973

From 1973-1975, Mary Nilles of Rollingstone, Minnesota, was a Fulbright Professor of English in Luxembourg. During that time she began extensive research regarding Luxembourg immigration to the United States. This research would lead to numerous publications and projects reflecting the Luxembourg American experience in the decades that followed.

Photo: Mary Nilles. 2010.

1975

In August 1975, Luxembourg’s Bishop Jean Hengen made a pastoral visit to the United States to experience Luxembourg American communities and people. He is depicted with Fr. Francis McGarry, pastor of St. Nicholas Church, Dacada, Wisconsin, and Alfred Croatt viewing the 1849 statue of Our Lady of Luxembourg in St. Nicholas Church.

1976

In 1976, Luxembourg’s Grand Duke Jean & Grand Duchess Josephine Charlotte made a Bicentennial Tour to the United States. They visited Washington DC, New York and Chicago. This visit also renewed interest in heritage and genealogy on the part of many Luxembourg Americans.

1976

Luxembourg Americans begin to take an active interest in their Luxembourg heritage, genealogy and culture. They begin researching their genealogy, visiting cemeteries, finding old photographs and interviewing relatives. All in an effort to understand their “roots”.

1977

In 1977, the Luxembourg Society of Wisconsin was founded by Dorothy (Schanen) Simpson and Anita (Becker) Kultgen. Its mission was to preserve and celebrate the Luxembourg heritage of families in and around Ozaukee County, Wisconsin. The Society quickly grew in members and for over 30 years welcomed Luxembourg visitors and sponsored activities and tours to celebrate Luxembourg heritage.

1979

In 1979, Fulbright Professor Mary Nilles creates an exhibit at Luxembourg’s National Library highlighting Luxembourg Immigration to the United States from 1840-1918 as well as the development of Rollingstone, Minnesota. In addition, she publishes a bibliography on Luxembourg immigration to the United States. This exhibit and bibliography is well received in Luxembourg and spurs on greater interest in the Grand Duchy.