Heimathaus Wehdem
Emigration
In the agricultural society of the 19th century, emigration was the only way for many people in the region to leave servitude and poverty behind.
Heimathaus Wehdem
Emigration
Between the middle of the 19th century and the 1930s, numerous inhabitants from Wehdem and the surrounding villages left for all corners of the world to start a new life somewhere else. Most of them found a new home in North America. In this way, the emigrants sought to escape the poor life in the countryside, individual economic hardship, as well as Prussian military service. Direct recruitment of settlers by the destination countries were also a reason for many to set out for the New World.
Heimathaus Wehdem
Emigration
Database
In the Heimathaus you will find an extensive database on the emigration history of the former inhabitants of what is now Stemwede, with letters, photos and memorabilia on emigration history from the immediate region. The database can be viewed during opening hours in the Heimathaus. If you would like to add photos, documents or your own story to our database, please contact the Heimathaus directly.