Charlemagne

Like most Americans of European descent, both Blaine and Cindy are descended from Charlemagne. Charlemagne was the ruler of Western Europe and is considered the founding father of countries such as France and Germany. He was greatly responsible for the spread of Christianity in Europe and helped revive the arts and education in the west. On a visit to Rome in 800 Charlemagne was crowned emperor and the period of his reign in Europe is known as the Holy Roman Empire.

Also, like many other Americans, a common ancestor of both Blaine and Cindy is Edward III, King of England from 1227 to 1277, and one of the most successful English monarchs of the Middle Ages. To a large extent Edward III can be credited with the birth of the English nation. Edward III brought Scotland under English control and claimed France, which started the Hundred Year War. He also led England through the period of time when it was afflicted with the Black Plague.

Cindy's heritage in Norwegian royalty is striking, stretching from King Eysteinn “Fret” Halfdansson in 736 to King Erik III Magnuson in 1268 and including Harald “The Fair” Halfdansson in 805. Cindy's Swedish heritage goes back to King Yngvi Alreksson in 466. Ancestral lines go into royalty in France, Spain, Scotland, Italy, Luxembourg, and others.

William the Conqueror is in Blaine's family tree as is Pepin, King of Italy. Other ancestors include King Henry III of England and King Philippe III of France. English families of nobility in Blaine's ancestry include the Spencer's, Radcliffe's, and Stafford's.

Ancestor's of Blaine and Cindy sailed on clipper ships in the spice trade with India, fought in the Revolutionary War, and served as officers in the Civil War. They served as officers in the Nauvoo Legion and as body guards to the Prophet Joseph Smith. Some family members, including a great, great-grandfather were killed crossing the plains with the pioneers. Members of the family went overseas to fight in the two world wars and didn't return.