New Insights into the Icelandic Emigration Story

For nearly a decade, a small team of dedicated genealogists within Icelandic Roots has meticulously researched an array of sources to paint a more accurate picture of the Icelandic Emigration Story between 1850 and 1914. This research has included documenting who left, when they left (and if they stayed), why they left, and how they made the journey. 

The Camoens, one of the many ships Icelanders took on their journey to North America. Accessed 2/26/2026 from Icelandic Roots Ships Archive.

The Emigration Research Team has combed through and fact-checked a multitude of sources such as the Vesturfaraskrá, census records, ship passenger lists, immigration records, family stories and records, obituaries, and much more. The result has uncovered names, details, and more accurate numbers than previously reported, thanks to new available sources. 

Over the course of the year, the team will periodically share insights from this wealth of data to help us better understand our shared history. The first of these updates will be shared in a special email this coming Wednesday, March 4th. 

While Icelandic Roots members with database access can already explore the emigration details of their ancestors—thanks to the hardworking Emigration Research Team—the upcoming Issue Papers will analyze the data collected and examine the broader history to shed light on new details.

Meet the Emigration Research Team:

David Johnson

Dave Jonasson

Willie Engelson

Greg McNeill