Theses and Dissertations - UTB/UTPA

Date of Award

5-2009

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

Department

Creative Writing

First Advisor

Dr. Philip Zwerling

Second Advisor

Dr. Jean Braithwaite

Third Advisor

Dr. Danika Brown

Abstract

In the summer of 1821, Cleng Peerson came to America as a scout for a group of Norwegians hoping to find a place where they could freely express their religion and enjoy economic prosperity. In this thesis, I explore the results of Cleng’s scouting and his preparations for the arrival of his sister, Carrie, her family and their friends on the Norwegian sloop Restaurationen. Throughout the text, I juxtapose my life story with Cleng’s. Together we experience relocation, homesickness and hardships and create a familial bond 188 years after his arrival in America. My thesis ends at the Murray/Kendall settlement in New York, completing Part I of what will eventually become a two-part manuscript on my journey with my great-great-great-great uncle, Cleng Peerson.

Comments

Copyright 2009 Christine Suzanne Ardis. All Rights Reserved.

https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/following-cleng-peerson-nieces-journey/docview/305182022/se-2

Granting Institution

University of Texas-Pan American

Share

COinS