I'm trying to find Hans Hanssen Foss and ultimately his parents in Norway. Family information states he was born 18 Sept 1868 in Østerdalen, Hedmark, Norway. In Østerdalen I am told there are farms called Foss in the parishes of Elverum and Trysil. Unfortunately, I can't find him in the church birth (1868) or emigration records (emigrated in 1895 according to the 1920 US Census) for either parish. I do see some "Hans" people, but not with the correct birth date. I have information he had a brother Ole.

A previous family member looked into this a long time ago and said that this area is close to Sweden and may have become Sweden in 1905 with Norway's independance and redefining of the border. I hope that's not the case.

Any ideas where to look next? The Foss farm in a different parish? Better search in the Norwegian records?

Appreciate any guidance. Planning a trip to a local college soon since they have the Elverum Bygdebok.

John