Fortythree Lapps. 15 Norwegians. and 10 Finns. making 118 man. were brought from Lapland in the spring of 1898 uder contract with the War Department for one year from February ii18s. They were selected in Lapland with the understanding that they were to become American citizens and to colonize in Alaska. where a Scandinavian element was desirable for the purpose of fostering the reindeer industry. When they reached Port Townsendthe first place where they made a stop of any. time in the United States23 of them were naturalized. and after reaching St. Michael. Alaska. 4 others. who had not had an opportunity of being naturalized at Port Townsend. took out their first papers. Of the 27 that took out their first papers not over 3 or 4. when their contract terminated with the Government. took up mining for their support. Of the 27 mentioned. 11 were Norwegians. 6 were Finns. and 10 were Lapps.
Keywords matched
naturalized