“Our family’s journey through time is a tapestry woven with stories, love, and enduring legacy.”

The Starting Point: John P. Elcik, Sr.

Every family historian faces the daunting task of deciding where to begin their heritage exploration. The journey into our family’s past starts with John P. Elcik, Sr. He is my great-great-grandfather, our namesake, and the guiding light through the corridors of time.

The Census as a Time Machine

Imagine the United States Federal Census as a time machine. Every ten years, it captures a snapshot of American life. These snapshots are windows into the lives of our ancestors, revealing not just names and dates but also their struggles, triumphs, and dreams.

Consider the 1910 Census. This is where our Elcik-Elsik name puzzle begins. My granddad listed his last name as Elsik, while his wife Mary and their children were recorded as Elcik. These discrepancies are the essence of genealogy, presenting little mysteries that beg to be solved.

Origins and Identity

According to the census, John was from Austria, and Mary was from Slovenia. However, family lore tells a different story, suggesting roots in Czechoslovakia. This complexity highlights how fluid identity can be, especially when empires rise and fall and borders shift. In the Austro-Hungarian Empire’s melting pot, our Slovak ancestors were labeled ‘Austrian’ upon arriving in the U.S.

The Rich History of Czechoslovakia

Our family’s tale intersects with the rich history of Czechoslovakia. This nation was born after WWI, reshaped by WWII, and gripped by the Cold War before finally standing sovereign. Our ancestors not only witnessed these historical events; they lived through them and contributed to the unfolding story.

The Call of Durham, Maine

Durham, Maine, is more than just a place on the map. It’s the stage where my great-grandfather’s American dream came to life. The shadows of his parents and siblings, still shrouded in mystery, beckon us to delve deeper into our family saga.

The Journey Ahead

So, grab your metaphorical shovel and detective hat. We have stories to unearth, connections to rediscover, and historical puzzles to solve. This journey is not just about tracing a lineage; it’s about piecing together the vibrant mosaic of our shared history.

Ready to Explore?

Are you ready to step into the past with me? There’s a whole world of family tales waiting to be explored.