Cochuyt Family — Maldegem to the USA
The Cochuyt family of Maldegem forms a clear migration cluster toward Paterson, New Jersey, with additional branches settling in Newark, New York in the early twentieth century.
Paterson, New Jersey
One of the later arrivals was Alois Cochuyt (born 22 October 1891, Maldegem), who departed on 25 October 1910 aboard the KROONLAND, joining brother-in-law Philibert Gilles in Paterson. His parents were Eduardus Cochuyt and Nathalie Verbist.
Earlier, Honore Cochuyt (born 16 February 1901) travelled twice: first in 1905 on the FINLAND to father Pieter Cochuyt in Paterson, and again in 1910 on the VADERLAND, bound for uncle Alois.
Jordan Cochuyt (born 24 November 1889) departed in 1905 on the FINLAND, later again in 1910 on the VADERLAND, joining the Paterson network.
Theophiel Cochuyt (born 3 July 1879), son of Eduardus Cochuyt and Nathalie Verbist, travelled on 24 December 1910 aboard the VADERLAND to brother Alois in Paterson. An earlier crossing in 1901 on the POTSDAM lists him heading to uncle E. Cochuyt.
Another early figure is Eduard Cochuyt (born 17 February 1857), who emigrated before 1900, referenced in connection with Paterson. His parents were Petrus Cochuyt and Riberghe Mathilde.
Newark & New York
A separate branch settled in Newark. Alfons Cochuyt (born 18 January 1871), son of Petrus Cochuyt and Riberghe Mathilde, departed 13 April 1904 on the KROONLAND, joining brother-in-law Frans De Windt.
On that same 1904 voyage were:
- Clement Cochuyt (born 30 December 1898), son of Alfons and Stefania Cauwels
- Octaaf Cochuyt (born 26 January 1903), son of Alfons and Stefania Cauwels
- Petrus Cochuyt (born 14 December 1900), son of Alfons and Stefania Cauwels
Migration Pattern
The Cochuyt migration shows a classic structure: Maldegem → first pioneer → siblings follow → extended family consolidates in Paterson and Newark. Repeated voyages between 1901 and 1910 confirm a carefully organised family movement rather than isolated departures.
Hans-note
In the Cochuyt story, Paterson was not merely a destination — it became an extension of Maldegem itself, rebuilt through family ties across the Atlantic.
Add scans/photos when ready.