Germany Resources

With German Americans being America’s largest self-reported ancestral group, chances are at some point in time you will come face to face with German records. Unfortunately, too many of us are scared away by the language, handwriting and nuances of German research. This does not need to be the case. A multitude of resources and reference materials, which if studied and applied, will help lead us across the ocean and into the hearths and hearts of our German ancestors.

One does not need to speak fluent German in order to experience success in German research, though it does require an investment of time to gain an understanding of the German genealogical process, history, geography, language, vocabulary, handwriting, etc. Below are listed some resources that will assist you as you begin this exciting journey.

Research Resources Free internet resources regarding the nuances and basics of German research:

BYU Independent Study: Brigham Young University Independent Study Online offers general Genealogical Research classes and an entire German Family History series at no cost.

FamilySearch Wiki: Patterned after Wikipedia this online-library is community based where everyone can share something to assist in genealogical research. There are hundreds of articles on basic genealogical research and articles specific to Germany.

Jensen, Larry O. Genealogical Handbook of German Research. Pleasant Grove, Utah, 1980; available at FamilySearch - go to previous site - Research Helps - Articles - “G” - Genealogical Handbook of German Research. This book has 22 chapters of priceless information and instruction.

ProGenealogists: A genealogical site containing several training articles regarding German research and also has German gazetteers.

Language and Archaic Terms You will need a good modern German dictionary and at least one dictionary containing the archaic terms.

A German Genealogical wordlist is available at FamilySearch Wiki. Also available are word lists for Latin, French, Danish, Dutch and Polish – languages that often appear in German records.

Google Translate is a good source for both small translations and entire websites – be aware that any word for word translation prepared by a computer program is going to have some errors!

Online Latin Dictionary and Grammar Aid is available through the Notre Dame University Library

Online Latin Word List published as a reference to medieval studies.

Leo.org