Our Services and Resources
Almost one in five Icelanders immigrated to North America between 1870 and 1914, which means that almost every Icelander today has relatives in the North America. It is therefore not surprising that an initiative that provides access to connections and information is a cause for celebration for both Icelanders and the descendants of the settlers. It is natural that people are interested in tracing their ancestry and finding their relatives and roots. The Icelandic Emigration Center uses multiple technological and print resources to help people in their search. It has often been possible to connect relatives even though the relationship has been broken for many generations. Special emphasis is placed on establishing friendship and cultural relations with the descendants of the settlers.
Library and Print Resources
The center's library is housed in the house called Frændgarður and mainly contains books dealing with the migration period from 1870 to 1914 and information about the migration, genealogy and Icelandic settlements in North America. Many of these books are gifts from the center's benefactors in Iceland and America. The collection is suitable for both academic and recreational use
Icelandic Roots Genealogy Database
Icelandic Roots is a strong supporter of the Icelandic Emigration Center, and the Icelandic Roots database is an excellent genealogy research tool. We encourage those looking for family information to become members of this fantastic database in order to gain access to all the information it holds.
Genealogy Research Assistance
We are always happy to help visitors find information on their ancestors, locate family farms, or reconnect with long-lost cousins. Please contact us to make an appointment to meet with one of our genealogy experts who can help you to navigate our resources.