OFB index

Discover your German roots

Hesse


Tracing your Hessian Roots

Church Records

Hesse’s church records, including baptism, marriage, and burial registers, date back to the Reformation era. These records are critical for constructing family histories. Explore church records through Archion.

Civil Registration Offices (Standesamt)

Established in the 19th century, these offices hold vital records such as births, marriages, and deaths, facilitating research for more recent generations. Learn about Hessian records at Standesamt Hessen.

Archives and Libraries:

The Hessian State Archives and local city archives house extensive collections, including census records, military registers, and emigration lists. Online webinars and guides from regional institutions also support family history research. Check out resources at Hessian State Archives.

Online Databases

Digital platforms like FamilySearch and Ancestry provide access to Hessian genealogical records, enabling researchers to explore their heritage remotely.

Town Family Books:

Town family books (“Ortssippenbücher” or “Ortsfamilienbücher”) are genealogical resources documenting family histories of specific towns, often including births, marriages, and deaths. Helpful resources are Genealogy.net, FamilySearch, WorldCat.