Episode 11: Legacy of Hope: Drawing Strength from Our Ancestral Stories
In this episode I'll share the powerful story of my father’s escape from communist Bulgaria in 1949 and eventual arrival in New Zealand in 1951 as a Displaced Person. It is a story of escape, freedom and perseverance. It is a story that at times raises more questions than providing illumination. It's also a story of how world history impacts family history and all the complications for genealogy researchers that arise when borders, political systems and language change.
Background information: Approximately 5,000 WWII DPs arrived in NZ in the late 1940s early 1950s: 2,000 from Eastern Europe (sailed on the Goya) and 3,000 from western Europe. Many DPs spent 6 weeks at the Pahiatua Camp learning English prior to being given Ministry of Works employment during the settlement phase. In total 90 Bulgarians came to NZ as DPs.
Background information: Approximately 5,000 WWII DPs arrived in NZ in the late 1940s early 1950s: 2,000 from Eastern Europe (sailed on the Goya) and 3,000 from western Europe. Many DPs spent 6 weeks at the Pahiatua Camp learning English prior to being given Ministry of Works employment during the settlement phase. In total 90 Bulgarians came to NZ as DPs.
Inspirational Quote: "Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall." – Confucius
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Email: dontretirereinspire@gmail.com or visit us on FB
I also encourage you to watch Untold Stories - World War 2 Displaced persons who settled in Palmerston North, New Zealand. (youtube.com) which tells the story of five DP families who settled in Palmerston North.
Email: dontretirereinspire@gmail.com or visit us on FB
I also encourage you to watch Untold Stories - World War 2 Displaced persons who settled in Palmerston North, New Zealand. (youtube.com) which tells the story of five DP families who settled in Palmerston North.
