Tom asked whether I knew anything about my immigrant ancestor's route from Switzerland to America. I thought the answer might be helpful to someone else on the list who has Solothurn ancestors. My great-great-grandfather Johann Baptist (Jean-Baptiste) Altermatt sailed from Bremen to Baltimore on the ship Sophie in 1841. He gave "Basel" as his last residence in Europe. None of his family came with him or after him. His hometown was Mümliswil. Have you looked at the microfilm for the passport list for Solothurn? I found J.B. Altermatt in there 4 different times because he was traveling to France and Italy as a student of theology. The handwriting is very clear and easy to read. You can order one at your nearest LDS family history center. Here in St. Louis County, Missouri, we can even borrow the films through our public library, so that may be possible where you live also. The film number is 1692093. Judy Altermatt Fee > Hi Judy > Read your enote to learn your family is from Solothurn, where my family > is also from. My great grandfather became a naturalized US citizen > Pittsburgh in 1843. Through the Diocese of Pittsburgh I have found a little > information. But, am missing much. Like, somewhere along the line the family > name changed from OSTERTAG to EASTERDAY. I think this happened sometime > around 1870 when my grandfather got married. Anyway, I've been trying to > find the route someone might travel from Solothurn to the US around before > 1843. Any suggestions were to look? Also, my great grandmother was a > FREYVOGEL but I don't know her nationality. Thanks for any help. Who knows, > we may be cousins! > Best to all > Tom Easterday