Dutch in Russia?

[Dagny]

Does anyone know whether there is/was a substantial population of Dutch people living in Russia? Beginning (perhaps) under the reign of Peter the Great?

Obscure question? Yes. Here's the reason for those interested: My father's side of the family is Russian (his grandparents). Our last name was changed at Ellis Island, and despite the Russian origin is sounds very Dutch (think: "Van--").

[bangdazap]

Don't know about any Dutch russian, but I do know there used to be a German minority in Russia until the end of WW II when they were forced to move to Germany.

[ungoliant]

well, the russian people have a strong norse element in their blood, so to speak. many of the villages in western russia may have been founded by viking traders. in fact, the word 'rus' may have been originally coined to refer to these norsemen. so, that may or may not be germane to your question, but i thought i'd mention it.

[Dagny]

It's a bit like asking around for random trivia; I have a feeling I'll never verify this one way or the other. Thanks though! ;)

[Vorticity]

Originally posted by Dagny
... Our last name was changed at Ellis Island...
Ahem...
http://www.ancestry.com/learn/library/article.aspx?article=3893

[Dagny]

I feel so misled. Edit: my family name was altered at some point during the naturalization process.

[The Central Scrutinizer]

Originally posted by Dagny
Does anyone know whether there is/was a substantial population of Dutch people living in Russia? Beginning (perhaps) under the reign of Peter the Great?

Obscure question? Yes. Here's the reason for those interested: My father's side of the family is Russian (his grandparents). Our last name was changed at Ellis Island, and despite the Russian origin is sounds very Dutch (think: "Van--").

If I recall my study of Russian history correctly, the answer is yes. Let me get my textbook out and fill in the details....