Genealogist Johan Stenslie plays a church hymn on the accordion at the Sons of Norway. 8/7/25.
FARGO — A North Dakota native who has spent years studying Norwegian history and genealogy, stopped at the Sons of Norway Thursday to share tips for those looking to learn more about their family history.
Johan Stenslie grew up in Bismarck, and also taught history at Horizon middle school, now lives in Norway where he has built a business helping others learn about their own family history.
Along with sharing his expertise in genealogy, he also performed Norwegian church hymns that he has uncovered in his research.
Stenslie also has a musical background and played banjo or the accordion while singing the hymns.
With all the resources shared during his talk, Stenslie says those just starting out can learn a lot by beginning their research with relatives who they can still talk to.
“It’s really weird going from Norway here, and then suddenly seeing, like, business names that are Norwegian names I’m like, ‘I researched a family with that name just a month ago. And, I don’t know, it just hit me how ingrained the Fargo-Moorhead area is with Scandinavian heritage,” Stenslie said.
Stenslie says he plans on stopping in a Bismarck and New Town before heading back to Norway.
Also, with all the resources he shared during his talk, Stenslie says those just starting out can learn a lot by beginning their research at home by talking to relatives who are still living, and hearing their stories.