Wow I use to be a neighbor of yours. I'm from Minnesota.
Here in England, many people ask where Im from so I have them guess. In the 25 years I have been here, only 4 have said America. The rest say Canada. I even had a guy say he was really good at tracing accents and also guessed Canada. I usually respond with, "Have you ever heard of Winnipeg"? most have and then I tell them. I come from a little place just outside of there called, America".
I look forward to your rebuild and Have a Merry Christmas!