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From Europe to America
my family tree

My name is Holly West Derby and I started tracing my family history about three years ago. It has been a long, fascinating journey. Some information fell into my lap and some I really had to search for. I have also met many new relatives who have given much help and guidance along the way.

Some of the information I have presented in this web site is documented and some is not and I am always in the process of conducting research to verify what is contained here. I am also always open to discussion and discourse over what you see on my web site.

Growing up I was always told that I was Irish, German and Italian. I have not found any Irish in me yet and ended up adding a lot of Dutch, French and English. I was very surprised to learn that my ancestors took part in much of what I studied throughout my school years. I have found Huguenots, pioneers and military men. Some of my ancestors were among the first settlers of this country and have gone on to fight in the Revolutionary War and Civil War. Others came to this country barely knowing a word of English, settled here and prospered.

I wish to thank all of my family members who helped me search through graveyards, archives and documents. I would especially like to thank my husband, Bob who hauled me all over the countryside and Walt Whipple who started it all. Enjoy!

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