Your American Story

[lizziebith]

On my Dad's side I'm a Schoonover. Originally Van Schoonhoven (which means from the Dutch town of Schoonhoven, or "safe harbor"), my ancestors came to upstate New York (New Amsterdam) in 1650. All Schoonovers are in this one big family, as the last name was created here in America. I am related to famous artist Frank Schoonover, of the Brandywine School (Wyeth, Pyle et al.). My husband lived for many years near Kingston, NY (our family seat) -- and of course knew who Frank Schoonover was -- so he pretty much flipped out with excitement when he found out I was a Schoonover!

On my Mom's side I'm Irish -- half Catholic, half Protestant hehe. We were always told to wear green AND orange on St. Patty's Day. Family legend has it that we are Mayflower descendants (LOL seems like everybody claims that) and DAR and...horse-thieves. There were many name-changes due to criminal behavior. We think the original last name was McHugh. Or Campbell. On my Mom's side there are many tellers of tall tales though, so at this point in my life I have to admit that I am not sure about any of that.