When my great grandparents Marie and Kurt Martin immigrated to America from Germany, they brought with them a beautiful christening gown. This specific christening gown is a piece of clothing made of white, translucent lace and cotton. This christening gown, in particular, was made in Plauen, Germany in a lace factory owned by our relatives. This gown was worn by many babies in my family for their christening day ceremony. The first person to wear this gown was my granduncle Richard Martin in 1915, followed by my grandfather Otto Martin in 1919. When my grandfather had children, he continued the tradition and both my aunt Gail Martin in 1949 and my mother Tina Martin in 1956 wore the gown at their baptisms. Then both my sisters, Katie and Kristin, wore this gown at their christenings in 1985 and 1989, respectively. Finally, in 2001, I had the privilege of wearing this gown at my christening. This heirloom is important to me because it connects our family to the Lutheran faith and our German heritage. I look forward to continuing this tradition when I have children of my own.

– Charlie M

Relationship:  Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more