Württemberg Civil Registration

As in most states of Germany the Civil Registration in Württemberg began in 1875. Each little town had its own registration office which was the mayor's office (Bürgermeisteramt). Camparable to church records the civil records do not contain more information. To obtain civil records the genealogist has to write to the respective office. Church records can be obtained through the parishes and Family History Library systems as far as microfilming was allowed (1874-1920). Some areas of Württemberg have deposited their books at district archives. This is mostly the case with Catholic church records. In most cases relationship has to be proven before the civil registration office will give out information because of privacy laws. This can vary from place to place.