If you do research in Friesland, you will notice that the names there are quite different from the rest of the Netherlands. Friesland has its own language, Frisian (Fries) which comes with its own unique set of names.
Some Frisian male names look like female names to those of us who are not from Friesland. Some of these names are used as female names in other parts of the country. If you’re unsure whether the person is male or female, check the record to see what the role is (bruidegom/groom, bruid/bride, zoon/son, dochter/daughter).
Examples of Frisian male names that can be mistaken for female names are Anne, Jentje, Sjouke, Wopke, Romke and Bauke.
A Frisian man and woman in traditional costume. Credits: L.G. Portman, Rijksmuseum (public domain)
About Yvette Hoitink
