Carlson is actually my family name, in that I was born a Carlson and am one-quarter
Swedish. I was adopted at a young age by an aunt, half-sister to my birth father.
She was married to Farmacka, who himself had immigrated about age 10 from Czechoslovakia.
I grew up around both Farmackas and Carlsons. Being in south Texas, I heard four
different languages until I was around age 10 or more.
I remember my grand-father telling me of his days as a shepard boy on the hills of Sweden.
By then he was blind from eye cancer. So during visits, I would sit near him as
he told his stories.
The reason they decided to immigrate to the States is not exact, although it has
been suggested it was for religious freedom. As best I can determine, they were
faithful Luthern followers and religious conflicts were on the rise.
It must have taken a strong will, especially with such a change of climate from
Sweden to central Texas. That had to be a shock!
For whatever reason, they didn't just come as farmers
seeking land, (though several were), but instead many were highly trained in
various fields, like banking, and particularly medicine.
One thing that has never escaped me is that my Grandfather (PawPaw)
said that there are 3 things
that you NEVER bring up in conversation... unless... you want a fight.
I did not pay much attention to that... but as I get older...
I see his wisdom......
If you want to have fun without a problem.. then NEVER...
and I mean NEVER, bring up these 3 subjects:
Sex
Politics
Religion
There is no specific order. ALL are volatile ! As I age, I increasingly understand the reasons why..
Those are words to live by... and to be able to enjoy the company of others !!!!
..............This page is temporary, and I hope to continue adding more.