Our People
"At the time of grandfather's death, the words "our people" were constantly used by members of the family. The phrase had a double meaning. It referred not only to one's relatives, but also the Volga Germans as a whole. To a great extent the two meanings were interchangeable, because the only relative that a person was likely to have were Volga Germans." -- Emma Schwabenland Haynes |
Photograph taken in 1901 of twins Katy and Dora Schwabenland (front row) along with three friends.
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The Volga Germans often referred to themselves as "Unsere Leute " (Our People). This term evoked a sense of community and belonging in Russia and in the early years of settlement in America, when much of the world around them was culturally distinct.
Below are short biographies of individuals and families who migrated from Russia and made Portland their new home. This list represents only a small number of individuals and families. We are grateful to those who have shared their family stories.
Please consider writing your own family story. Download a template in Microsoft Word format to help you get started. Simply replace the fictitious text with the actual facts about your family, attach a few photos, and send it to us. That's all there is to it!
Below are short biographies of individuals and families who migrated from Russia and made Portland their new home. This list represents only a small number of individuals and families. We are grateful to those who have shared their family stories.
Please consider writing your own family story. Download a template in Microsoft Word format to help you get started. Simply replace the fictitious text with the actual facts about your family, attach a few photos, and send it to us. That's all there is to it!
Last updated December 8, 2025