Most of us trace our ancestry back to farmers at some point in time. Did you know there are several different words to describe different types of farmers? Church records, census records and any other records you look at often times give the individual’s occupation. If you watch, you will see that several different classes of farmers might be listed within the same village.
Gårdmand: This would be a farmer who owned his land. It was typically a large farm that would support more than just his household. His crops could be sold to others.
Bonde: This term refers to a peasant. Typically you would see a man listed as “Hus-bonde,” meaning the “head of the house.” This is, of course, the origins of our word “husband.”
Huusmand/Husmand: Another word that might be used here is “cottager.” This term applies to a man who owned his home but not his farm. He likely paid land fees to the village or manor council.
Boelsmand: Similar to a cottager in that he worked a small piece of land adjacent to where he lived.
Jordbruger/Jordebrukare: This would indicate a very small farm, likely enough to support a household. A jordbruger would likely have another occupation to provide financial support to the family.
Hopefully this brief introduction to the different classes of farmers helps you learn more about your ancestors. Notice the occupations of the other farmers in your ancestors community, and you will learn more about your own family.