Thuringia, officially known as the Free State of Thuringia (German: Freistaat Thüringen), is a federal state located in central Germany. It shares borders with Lower Saxony to the northwest, Saxony-Anhalt to the northeast, Saxony to the southeast, Bavaria to the south, and Hesse to the west. The state’s capital and largest city is Erfurt.
This page provides links sourced from The Familienbuch Eichsfeld, a genealogical project under the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für mitteldeutsche Familienforschung (AMF e.V.)(https://www.familienbuch-eichsfeld.de/) and the Online Familienbücher (OFB) website (https://ofb.genealogy.net/). To make these links more navigable and user-friendly, I have taken the liberty of reorganizing and categorizing them. For updated details and additional resources, please visit the original website directly.
| Cities, Towns, Villages, and Hamlets | Locality Descriptions | Online OFB Links |
|---|---|---|
| Altendorf | Altendorf is a small suburb in Thuringia, Germany, located near Kosma and Kürbitz. It is part of the Altenburger Land district and is known for its rural charm and proximity to scenic landscapes | |
| Anrode | A former municipality in Unstrut-Hainich-Kreis, formed in 1997 through a merger of villages and dissolved in 2023. | |
| Apolda | Apolda, located 15 km northeast of Weimar, is renowned for its 200-year bell-casting tradition, including the “Decke Pitter” for Cologne Cathedral, and as the birthplace of the Doberman Pinscher breed. | |
| Arnstadt | A historic town in Thuringia, notable for its ties to Johann Sebastian Bach and the Liebfrauenkirche. | |
| Artern/Unstrut | A medieval town at the confluence of the Unstrut and Helme rivers, with notable brine springs and cultural landmarks. | |
| Auerstedt | A village of historical significance for the Battle of Auerstedt in 1806 during the Napoleonic Wars. | Local heritage book of Auerstedt |
| Bad Berka | A spa town near Weimar, recognized for its wellness facilities and scenic surroundings. | |
| Bad Blankenburg | A picturesque town with historical landmarks and access to natural beauty. | |
| Bad Colberg-Heldburg | A municipality formed by the merger of two towns, each with its unique history. | |
| Bad Frankenhausen/Kyffhäuser | Famous for the Barbarossa Monument and its historical old town. | |
| Bad Klosterlausnitz | Known for its spa facilities and historical buildings. | |
| Bad Köstritz | Renowned for its traditional black beer brewery. | |
| Bad Langensalza | A town with well-preserved medieval walls and gardens. | |
| Bad Liebenstein | A spa town located in the scenic Thuringian Forest | |
| Bad Lobenstein | Known for its spa facilities and as a gateway to the Thuringian Forest. | |
| Bad Salzungen | Famous for its salt springs and historic spa architecture. | |
| Bad Sulza | Renowned for its spa facilities and proximity to the Saale-Unstrut wine region. | |
| Bad Tennstedt | A charming town with a history of spa culture and serene surroundings. | |
| Ballstädt | A small town with historical significance. | |
| Barchfeld | Known for its historic buildings and scenic location. | |
| Bechstedt | A municipality with a rich history and cultural heritage. | |
| Bechstedtstraß | A locality with historical and cultural importance. | |
| Behrungen | Behrungen, a former municipality in the district of Schmalkalden-Meiningen, Thuringia, Germany, has a long and complex history. First mentioned in 795, it was historically part of Henneberg-Schleusingen before being exchanged in 1440/53 to Römhild, later passing through various territorial changes. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Behrungen was under Saxe-Meiningen, a duchy within the German Confederation. After World War I, it remained part of the Free State of Thuringia within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Behrungen was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Suhl. Due to its proximity to the Inner-German border, the village was heavily affected by border fortifications and restrictions. After German reunification in 1990, Behrungen was integrated into the modern state of Thuringia. In 2007, it was officially incorporated into Grabfeld, where it remains today as part of the Schmalkalden-Meiningen district. | Local heritage book of Behrungen |
| Berga | A town along the White Elster River, Berga merged with Wünschendorf/Elster to create the new municipality of Berga-Wünschendorf. | |
| Berlingerode | Berlingerode, a municipality in the Eichsfeld district of Thuringia, Germany, has a long and complex history. First mentioned on December 5, 1266, it was historically associated with the Westernhagen Castle, which was destroyed during the German Peasants’ War. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Berlingerode was part of Prussian Saxony, specifically within the Worbis district. After World War I, it remained under Prussian jurisdiction within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Berlingerode was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Erfurt. The village was affected by the closure of the nearby Inner-German border from 1961 to 1989. After German reunification in 1990, Berlingerode was integrated into the modern state of Thuringia. Today, it remains a small but historically significant municipality within the Eichsfeld district.1 | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Berlingerode |
| Berlstedt | A historic town with traditional German buildings and local charm. | |
| Bermbach | Known for its historical buildings and community events. | |
| Bernterode (Breitenworbis) | Situated nine kilometers east of Leinefelde-Worbis in the Wipper valley, Bernterode includes the district of Bernterode-Schacht and has been part of Breitenworbis since 2009. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Bernterode-Breitenworbis |
| Bickenriede | Bickenriede is a village in Thuringia, Germany, first documented in 1146. Previously part of the Anrode municipality, it became a district of Dingelstädt in January 2023. Situated in the Luhne valley, Bickenriede serves as the southeastern gateway to the Eichsfeld region. | |
| Birx | Birx is a small municipality in the Schmalkalden-Meiningen district of Thuringia, Germany, situated at an elevation of 740 meters. Located near the border with Hesse, it offers access to various trails and natural attractions in the Rhön Mountains. | Local heritage book of Frankenheim.Birx |
| Bischofferode | Bischofferode, a locality in the municipality of Am Ohmberg within the Eichsfeld district of Thuringia, Germany, has a long and complex history. First mentioned in 1124, it was historically associated with the Benedictine monastery of Gerode, which played a significant role in its development. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Bischofferode was part of Prussian Saxony, specifically within the administrative district of Erfurt. After World War I, it remained under Prussian jurisdiction within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Bischofferode was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Erfurt. The village was known for its potash mining industry, which became a major economic driver until 1993, when production ceased. After German reunification in 1990, Bischofferode was integrated into the modern state of Thuringia. In 2010, it was officially incorporated into Am Ohmberg, where it remains today as part of the Eichsfeld district.2 | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Bischofferode |
| Bischofroda | Bischofroda, a municipality in Thuringia’s Wartburgkreis district, is located about 10 kilometers north of Eisenach near the Hainich National Park. The village is known for its historic half-timbered houses and picturesque farms. | |
| Blankenburg | A town with a rich history and notable architecture. | |
| Blankenhain | Known for its historical buildings and cultural events. | |
| Blankenstein | A locality with scenic beauty and historical significance. | |
| Bleicherode | A town with historical importance and local industries | |
| Brehme | Known for its historical buildings and community activities. | |
| Breitungen/Werra | A town with a rich history and scenic location. | |
| Brotterode-Trusetal | Known for its spa facilities and natural beauty. | |
| Bruchstedt | A village with historical significance and cultural heritage. | |
| Brüheim | A locality with a rich history and community events. | |
| Burgk | A village known for its historic castle and scenic surroundings. | |
| Burgwalde | A municipality in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, located near Heiligenstadt. Known for its Bonifatiuskapelle, a pilgrimage chapel built in 1880, and its scenic surroundings in the Hanstein-Rusteberg region. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Burgwalde |
| Buttelstedt | A town with historical buildings and cultural importance. | |
| Buttstädt | Known for its historical significance and local traditions. | |
| Büttstedt | A village with a rich history and community activities. | |
| Caselwitz | Caselwitz, a locality in the town of Greiz within the Greiz district of Thuringia, Germany, has a long and evolving history. First mentioned on August 4, 1313, it is the oldest of the southwestern Höhenorte near Greiz. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Caselwitz was part of Reuss Elder Line, a principality within the German Confederation. After World War I, it became part of the Free State of Thuringia within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Caselwitz was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Gera. In 1922, Caselwitz was merged with Obergrochlitz to form the short-lived municipality of Caselwitz-Grochlitz, but later that year, it was incorporated into Greiz.3 | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Clodra | Clodra, a locality in the town of Berga-Wünschendorf within the Greiz district of Thuringia, Germany, has a deep-rooted history. First mentioned in 1260 as Cloderawe and later in 1281 as Kloderowe, its name originates from Slavic or Sorbian, meaning “place of woodcutters”. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Clodra was part of Sachsen-Weimar-Eisenach, an administrative region within the Kingdom of Prussia. After World War I, it remained under Prussian jurisdiction within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Clodra was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Gera, experiencing economic and infrastructural changes during this period. The village was known for its late Romanesque Chorturmkirche, which served as a parish church for neighboring villages. The church was burned down in 1633 during an attack but was rebuilt by 1658. After German reunification in 1990, Clodra was integrated into the modern state of Thuringia. In 1994, it was officially incorporated into Berga-Wünschendorf, where it remains today as part of the Greiz district.4 | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Crawinkel | Crawinkel is a village in Thuringia, Germany, located on the northern slope of the Thuringian Forest, approximately 20 km southwest of Gotha and 30 km west of Erfurt. The village is historically significant for the Battle of Crawinkel during the Thirty Years’ War. | |
| Creuzburg | Known for its historic castle and picturesque location. | |
| Crimla | A village with historical significance and cultural heritage. | |
| Culmitzsch | Culmitzsch was a village in he Greiz district of Thuringia. Historically notable for its medieval structures, the village was demolished between 1964 and 1970 due to uranium mining by the Wismut company. This led to the creation of industrial tailings ponds and the displacement of its residents. | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Cursdorf | A locality known for its natural beauty and community events. | |
| Daasdorf am Berge | A village with historical buildings and scenic surroundings. | |
| Dachwig | Known for its historical significance and local traditions. | |
| Dankmarshausen | A locality with a rich history and cultural importance. | |
| Dermbach | A town with historical buildings and community activities. | |
| Deuna | A village known for its scenic beauty and historical significance. | |
| Diedorf | A village in Thuringia, Germany, known for its rural charm and proximity to the scenic Eichsfeld region. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Katharinenberg |
| Dieterode | A village with historical buildings and community events. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Dieterode |
| Dillstädt | A locality known for its historical significance and scenic location. | |
| Dingelstädt | Dingelstädt (Dingelstaedt), a town in Thuringia’s Eichsfeld district, lies along the upper Unstrut River, 8 km south of Leinefelde-Worbis and 15 km northwest of Mühlhausen. Formerly the administrative center of a collective municipality until 2019, it has since grown by incorporating nearby villages. January 2019: Merged with Helmsdorf, Kefferhausen, Kreuzebra, and Silberhausen. January 2023: Absorbed Bickenriede and Zella from the former municipality of Anrode, as well as Beberstedt and Hüpstedt from Dünwald. January 2024: Integrated the village of Struth from the former municipality of Rodeberg. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Dingelstädt |
| Dippach | A locality with historical buildings and cultural significance. | |
| Dittersdorf | A locality with historical buildings and cultural significance. | |
| Dobitschen | A village with a rich history and scenic location. | |
| Döllstädt | A locality known for its historical significance and community events. | |
| Döringsdorf | Döringsdorf, a village in the Eichsfeld district of Thuringia, Germany, has a long and complex history. First mentioned in 1421, it was originally Hessian territory and was granted to the Keudell noble family. During conflicts between Hesse and Thuringia (1357–1402), many residents fled to the Hülfensberg, a nearby pilgrimage site. In 1583, the Landgraves of Hesse exchanged Döringsdorf with the Archbishopric of Mainz, making it the last village to be incorporated into the Eichsfeld region. After 1792, the Keudell family’s holdings were absorbed by Kurmainz, further solidifying its place within the Mainz-controlled Eichsfeld. Following World War II, Döringsdorf was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Erfurt. After German reunification in 1990, it was integrated into Thuringia, and in 1994, it was incorporated into Geismar. Today, Döringsdorf remains a small rural locality, known for its St. Stephanus Church (built in 1812) and its proximity to the Eichsfelder Kreuz, a memorial near the former Inner-German border.5 | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Döringsdorf |
| Dornburg-Camburg | A picturesque town on the Saale River, featuring Dornburg castles and Camburg’s historic charm. | |
| Drescha | A historic Altenburg suburb in Thuringia, first noted in 976 as “Trescouua,” gifted by Emperor Otto II to the Bishopric of Zeitz, known for its rural charm. | |
Duderstadt | A city in southern Lower Saxony, Germany, located in the district of Göttingen. It is the centre and the capital of the northern part of the Eichsfeld. | |
| Effelder | Effelder, a municipality in the Eichsfeld district of Thuringia, Germany, has a long history shaped by territorial changes and regional influences. Located in central Germany, Effelder is part of the Westerwald-Obereichsfeld municipal association and sits at an elevation of 470 meters. Historically, Effelder was under the control of the Archbishopric of Mainz, which governed much of the Eichsfeld region until 1803. Following the Reichsdeputationshauptschluss, the village transitioned to Prussian rule, marking a significant shift in its administration. During the Cold War, Effelder was situated near the inner-German border, restricting movement and access. Today, Effelder remains a small but historically significant municipality, with a population of approximately 1,201 residents.6 | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Effelder |
| Ehrenberg | Ehrenberg, a municipality in Hildburghausen district, is noted for its rural charm and scenic elevation of 429 meters. | |
| Eppichnellen | Eppichnellen, in Thuringia’s Wartburgkreis district, is part of Gerstungen municipality. Located 14 km from Bad Salzungen in the western Thuringian Forest, it was an independent municipality until 1945, when it was incorporated into Förtha. The area is notable for copper mining from the 15th century to the 1950s | Local heritage book of Oberellen (currently offline) |
| Farnroda | Farnroda, part of Wutha-Farnroda in Thuringia, Germany, boasts half-timbered houses and has historical ties to families like the Kleinsteubers, dating back to the 17th century. Its location near the Thuringian Forest made it a hub for trade and culture over the centuries. | Local heritage book of Oberellen (currently offline) |
| Faulungen | Faulungen is a village in the municipality of Südeichsfeld, located in the Unstrut-Hainich-Kreis district of Thuringia, Germany. Surrounded by scenic wooded hills, it is home to St. Martin Church, an 18th-century building, and a grotto inspired by Lourdes. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Faulungen |
| Förtha | Förtha, a village in the Wartburgkreis district of Thuringia, Germany, has a rich history dating back to its first documented mention in 1239. The village is located in the western part of the Thuringian Forest, near the Elte River, approximately 14 kilometers from Bad Salzungen. Historically, Förtha developed around a ford crossing, which made it a strategic point along trade and military routes. The Alte Frankfurter Straße, an old trade route, passed through the village, connecting Frankfurt, Vacha, Marksuhl, and Eisenach. In the 15th century, copper mining became an important industry in the area, with several mining shafts established north of the village. During World War II, Förtha was the site of intense battles between German forces and the advancing U.S. Army on April 5, 1945. The village was eventually occupied by American troops, and several German soldiers were buried in the local cemetery1. In 1996, Förtha was officially incorporated into the municipality of Marksuhl, and later became part of Gerstungen following administrative reforms. Today, Förtha remains a small but historically significant village, known for its picturesque landscape and former mining heritage.7 | Local heritage book of Oberellen (currently offline) |
| Frankenheim | Frankenheim, a municipality in the district of Schmalkalden-Meiningen, Thuringia, Germany, has a rich and evolving history. Located in the Rhön Mountains, it is known for its high elevation, ranging from 750 to 780 meters. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Frankenheim was part of Saxe-Meiningen, a duchy within the German Confederation. After World War I, it remained under Thuringian jurisdiction within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Frankenheim was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Suhl. The village experienced economic and infrastructural changes during this period. After German reunification in 1990, Frankenheim was integrated into the modern state of Thuringia. Today, it remains a small but historically significant municipality within the Schmalkalden-Meiningen district.8 | Local heritage book of Frankenheim.Birx |
| Freienhagen | Freienhagen, a village in the Eichsfeld district of Thuringia, Germany, has experienced numerous territorial changes throughout its history. First mentioned in 1304, it was governed by the von Bodenhausen family, who retained control until 1610, despite territorial disputes with the Duchy of Brunswick-Lüneburg. The village suffered destruction in 1623 during the Thirty Years’ War, but remained part of Kurmainz until 1802, when it transitioned to Prussian rule following the Reichsdeputationshauptschluss. After World War II, Freienhagen was situated within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) from 1949 until German reunification in 1990. Since then, it has been part of Thuringia, within the Eichsfeld district, and today it remains a municipality in the Verwaltungsgemeinschaft Hanstein-Rusteberg, with a population of around 287 residents. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Freienhagen |
| Gangloffsömmern | A municipality in Sömmerda district, Thuringia, known for its Romanesque church and historical ties to noble families | |
| Geismar | Geismar, a village in the Eichsfeld district of Thuringia, Germany, has a rich history shaped by territorial shifts and regional influences. First mentioned in 1357, it was historically linked to the Archbishopric of Mainz, with its parish church placed under the authority of Kloster Anrode. The village name originates from the Old High German words “gisan” and “mari”, meaning a sump-filled area with bubbling springs. During the Thirty Years’ War, Geismar was burned down in 1641 by Swedish troops, leaving only four houses intact. In 1682, the Eichsfeld region was struck by the plague, which devastated Geismar’s population. The village later became part of Kurmainz until 1802, when it transitioned to Prussian rule following the Reichsdeputationshauptschluss. After World War II, Geismar was located within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) from 1949 until German reunification in 1990. Since then, it has been part of Thuringia, within the Eichsfeld district, and today it remains a municipality in the Verwaltungsgemeinschaft Ershausen/Geismar, with a population of around 1,076 residents. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Geismar |
| Glasehausen | Glasehausen, a village in the Eichsfeld district of Thuringia, Germany, has a long history dating back to its first documented mention in 1300. The name is believed to originate from a former glassworks, which may have once operated in the area. Situated north of Heilbad Heiligenstadt, near the Thuringia–Lower Saxony border, Glasehausen is surrounded by notable elevations such as the Silberberg (315 m), Gehlenberg (383 m), and Auberg (345 m), giving it a scenic landscape. The village’s Johannes der Täufer Church, built in 1714, serves as its historical and architectural centerpiece, featuring a late Gothic carved altar. During the Cold War, Glasehausen was enclosed within the 500-meter restricted zone along the inner-German border, limiting movement and access. Today, it is part of the Grünes Band Thüringen, a protected natural monument preserving the former border landscape. On January 1, 2024, Glasehausen was officially incorporated into Heilbad Heiligenstadt, marking a new chapter in its administrative history. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Glasehausen |
| Gottesgrün | Gottesgrün is a village in the municipality of Mohlsdorf-Teichwolframsdorf, located in the Greiz district of Thuringia, Germany. First mentioned in historical records in 1507, it features the Evangelical village church constructed in 1657. | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Greiz | Greiz is a town in eastern Thuringia, Germany, serving as the district’s capital. Situated on the White Elster River, it lies about 100 km east of Erfurt. The town is renowned for its Fürstlich Greizer Park, designed in the English landscape style, and its Jugendstil architecture. | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Großsaara | Großsaara, first mentioned in 1387, is a village in the Saara municipality of Thuringia, Germany. It features the Evangelical Church of St. Maria, originally a medieval hall church. | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Günterode | A village in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, now part of Heilbad Heiligenstadt since 1992. It is known for its St. Georg Catholic Church, built in 1703, and its scenic location on a sandstone plateau near the Beber River. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Günterode |
| Haussömmern | A small village in Unstrut-Hainich-Kreis, Thuringia, known for its restored St. Ambrosius Church and traditional half-timbered houses. | |
| Heiligenstadt | A historic spa town in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, Germany, known for its saltwater baths, St. Mary’s Church, and scenic location along the Leine River. It has been the district capital since 1994 and features landmarks like the Iberg and the Eichsfeld-Hainich-Werratal Nature Park. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Heiligenstadt St. Marien Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Heiligenstadt St. Martin |
| Hildebrandshausen | A village in Unstrut-Hainich-Kreis, Thuringia, now part of Südeichsfeld municipality since 2011. It is known for its picturesque half-timbered houses and its location near the Konstein-Plesse-Keudelskuppe ridge. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Hildebrandshausen |
| Helmsdorf | A village in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, located along the upper Unstrut River, now part of Dingelstädt since 2019. | |
| Heyerode | A village in Thuringia’s Unstrut-Hainich district, now part of Südeichsfeld municipality since 2011. It is known for its proximity to Hainich National Park and features landmarks like the Grenzhaus and a historic church from the 11th century. | Familienbuch Eichfeld – Heyerode |
| Herrmannsgrün | Herrmannsgrün is a village in the municipality of Mohlsdorf-Teichwolframsdorf, located in the Greiz district of Thuringia, Germany. Established in 1315, it merged with Mohlsdorf in 1922. | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Hirschfeld/Wolfersgrün | A village in Saxony, Germany, part of the Zwickau district, known for its scenic surroundings and Hirschfeld Wildlife Park. | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Hüpstedt | A village in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, now part of Dünwald municipality since 1994. It is known for its Baroque church, built in 1740, and its scenic location on the Dün plateau. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Hüpstedt |
| Kallmerode | A village in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, now part of Leinefelde-Worbis since 2019. It is nestled in a scenic valley and features historical landmarks like the Gut Beinrode, a former monastic estate. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Kallmerode |
| Katharinenberg | A small village in Südeichsfeld, Thuringia, featuring the ruins of a 16th-century monastery church and hosting an annual festival in honor of St. Mary Magdalene. | Familienbuch Eichsfed – Diedorf / Katharinenberg |
| Kefferhausen | A village in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, now part of Dingelstädt since 2019. It is known for its scenic location and historical landmarks, including the Viadukt Kefferhausen, a former railway bridge. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Kefferhausen |
| Kreuzebra | A village in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, now part of Dingelstädt since 2019. It is known for its Baroque church dedicated to St. Sergius and Bacchus, built between 1738 and 1740, and its scenic location near the Harz foothills. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Kreuzebra |
| Krombach | A village in Bavaria, Germany, located in the Aschaffenburg district. It is known for its picturesque setting in the Spessart hills and its historic St. Wendelin Church. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Krombach |
| Langenwetzendorf | Langenwetzendorf is a municipality in Thuringia, Germany, located in the Greiz district. The village stretches along the Leuba River and was first mentioned in historical records in 1507. | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Lützensömmern | Lützenzömmern is a village in the municipality of Bad Köstritz, located in the district of Greiz, Thuringia, Germany. The village is characterized by its rural setting and traditional Thuringian architecture. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Lützensömmern |
| Mackenrode | A village in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, now part of Uder municipality since 2024. It is known for its scenic location in the “Eichsfeld Switzerland” and features landmarks like St. Martin’s Church and a fairytale park. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Mackenrode / Eichstruth |
| Marth | A village in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, Germany, known for its scenic rural setting and traditional half-timbered houses. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Rustenfelde / Marth |
| Meiningen | Meiningen is a historic town in southern Thuringia, Germany, serving as the capital of the Schmalkalden-Meiningen district. Known as a cultural hub, it hosts the Meininger State Theatre and several museums. | Local heritage book of Meiningen Frühzeit |
| Mengelrode | A village in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, now part of Heilbad Heiligenstadt since 2024. It is known for its 1687 St. Maria Magdalena Church and its scenic location near the Beber River. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Mengelrode |
| Mittelsömmern | Mittelsömmern, a municipality in Unstrut-Hainich, Thuringia, is home to the 11th-century Church of St. Cyriax and St. Laurentij, as well as the 13th-century Edelhof half-timbered building. | |
| Mönchpfiffel | Mönchpfiffel-Nikolausrieth is a municipality in the Kyffhäuserkreis district of Thuringia, Germany, formed in 1956 by the merger of the villages Mönchpfiffel and Nikolausrieth. Located along the river Helme, the municipality lies near the border between Thuringia and Saxony-Anhalt. | Local heritage book of Mönchpfiffel |
| Mohlsdorf | Mohlsdorf, in Greiz, Thuringia, merged with Teichwolframsdorf in 2012, forming Mohlsdorf-Teichwolframsdorf. It’s known for scenic landscapes and traditional Thuringian architecture. | |
| Naitschau | Naitschau, a locality in the municipality of Langenwetzendorf within the Greiz district of Thuringia, Germany, has a rich and evolving history. First mentioned on August 25, 1444, it was historically part of the region’s agricultural and milling economy, with several mills operating in the area. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Naitschau was under Prussian rule, specifically within the administrative district of Greiz. After World War I, it remained part of the Free State of Prussia within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Naitschau was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Gera, one of the administrative divisions of the German Democratic Republic. The village experienced economic and infrastructural changes during this period. After German reunification in 1990, Naitschau was integrated into the modern state of Thuringia. In 1994, it was officially incorporated into Langenwetzendorf, where it remains today as a part of the Greiz district. | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Nikolausrieth | A village in Kyffhäuserkreis, Thuringia, historically tied to the Cistercian Walkenried Abbey and known for its medieval chapel. | Local family database Amt Voigtstedt |
| Pöllwitz | A locality in Greiz district, Thuringia, featuring the historic Wehrkirche St. Nikolaus and surrounded by the scenic Pöllwitzer Wald. | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Röhrig | A village in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, now part of the municipality of Sonnenstein since 2011. It is known for its scenic rural setting and traditional half-timbered architecture. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Röhrig |
| Rohrberg | Rohrberg, a municipality in the Eichsfeld district of Thuringia, Germany, has a long and complex history. First mentioned before September 1, 1055, it was historically part of Kurmainz, governed by the Archbishopric of Mainz. However, the village was abandoned in the 15th century for unknown reasons, only to be re-established around 1500. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Rohrberg was under Prussian Saxony, specifically within the Regierungsbezirk Erfurt, an administrative district overseeing governance in the region. After World War I, it remained part of the Free State of Prussia within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Rohrberg was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Erfurt, one of the administrative divisions of the German Democratic Republic. From 1961 to 1989, the village was affected by the closure of the nearby Inner-German border. After German reunification in 1990, Rohrberg was integrated into the modern state of Thuringia, where it remains today as part of the Eichsfeld district.9 | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Rohrberg |
| Rüstungen | A village in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, now part of the municipality of Sonnenstein since 2011. It is known for its scenic rural setting and traditional half-timbered architecture. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Rüstungen |
| Rustenfelde | A village in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, part of the Hanstein-Rusteberg municipality. It is known for its St. Peter and Paul Church and its scenic rural setting. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Rustenfelde/Marth |
| Schierschwende | A village in Thuringia, Germany, now part of the Südeichsfeld municipality since 1995. It is known for its scenic rural setting and landmarks like the Gut Schönberg estate and the Lindenhecke. | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Wendehausen |
| Schwobfeld | A village in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, part of the Ershausen/Geismar municipality. It is known for its 16th-century Allerheiligen Church and its picturesque rural setting | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Schwobfeld |
| Sickerode | A village in Eichsfeld, Thuringia, part of the Ershausen/Geismar municipality. It is known for its scenic rural setting and traditional half-timbered houses | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Sickerode |
| Silberhausen | Silberhausen, a village in the Eichsfeld district of Thuringia, Germany, has a long and complex history. First mentioned in 1171, it was historically part of various regional territories, including the Archbishopric of Mainz, which governed much of the Eichsfeld region until 1803. Following the Reichsdeputationshauptschluss, Silberhausen transitioned to Prussian rule, marking a significant shift in its administration. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Silberhausen was under Prussian Saxony, specifically within the Regierungsbezirk Erfurt, an administrative district overseeing governance in the region. After World War I, it remained part of the Free State of Prussia within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Silberhausen was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Erfurt, one of the administrative divisions of the German Democratic Republic. After German reunification in 1990, Silberhausen was integrated into the modern state of Thuringia, where it remains today as part of the town of Dingelstädt, following its incorporation on January 1, 2019.10 | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Silberhausen Not an OFB but highly recommended: Descendants of Hans Hildebrand Ziegenfuss |
| Steinbach | Steinbach, a municipality in the Eichsfeld district of Thuringia, Germany, has a long and complex history. First mentioned in 1294, it was historically part of various regional territories, including the Archbishopric of Mainz, which governed much of the Eichsfeld region until 1803. Following the Reichsdeputationshauptschluss, Steinbach transitioned to Prussian rule, marking a significant shift in its administration. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Steinbach was under Prussian Saxony, specifically within the Regierungsbezirk Erfurt, an administrative district overseeing governance in the region. After World War I, it remained part of the Free State of Prussia within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Steinbach was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Erfurt, one of the administrative divisions of the German Democratic Republic. After German reunification in 1990, Steinbach was integrated into the modern state of Thuringia, where it remains today as part of the Eichsfeld district.11 | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Steinbach |
| Struth | Struth, a village in the Unstrut-Hainich district of Thuringia, Germany, has a long and complex history. It is one of the oldest settlements in the region, though its exact origins remain unclear. According to tradition, inhabitants of Hirsingerode, a settlement destroyed by Hungarian and Slavic invasions in the 10th century, relocated to Struth. Historically, Struth was a Reichsdorf (imperial village) and was subject to the Amt Gleichenstein, later coming under the control of Treffurt. In 1273, Heinrich von Treffurt sold Struth to Kloster Zella, linking its history closely with the monastery. During the Thirty Years’ War, Struth suffered greatly, particularly during conflicts between Swedish forces and Pappenheim’s troops. The village was frequently caught in territorial disputes, leading to economic hardship. Following World War II, Struth was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Erfurt. After German reunification in 1990, Struth was integrated into Thuringia, where it remains today as part of the municipality of Südeichsfeld.12 13 | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Struth |
| Syrau | Syrau, a village in the Vogtlandkreis district of Saxony, Germany, has a long and complex history. First mentioned in historical records, it was historically part of various regional territories before becoming a municipality in Saxony. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Syrau was under Saxon administration, specifically within the Kingdom of Saxony, which governed the region. After World War I, it remained part of Saxony within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Syrau was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Karl-Marx-Stadt, one of the administrative divisions of the German Democratic Republic. After German reunification in 1990, Syrau was integrated into the modern state of Saxony, where it remains today as part of the municipality of Rosenbach. | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Teichwolframsdorf | Teichwolframsdorf, a village in the Greiz district of Thuringia, Germany, has a long and complex history. First mentioned in 1278, it was originally a Germanic settlement and later became part of various regional territories before transitioning to Prussian rule in the 19th century. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Teichwolframsdorf was under Prussian Saxony, specifically within the Regierungsbezirk Erfurt, an administrative district overseeing governance in the region. After World War I, it remained part of the Free State of Prussia within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Teichwolframsdorf was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Gera, one of the administrative divisions of the German Democratic Republic. On January 1, 2012, Teichwolframsdorf merged with Mohlsdorf, forming the municipality Mohlsdorf-Teichwolframsdorf.14 | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Thamsbrück | Thamsbrück, a historic quarter of Bad Langensalza in Thuringia, Germany, has a rich past dating back to its first documented mention in 736. The village was founded by the Anglo-Saxon missionary Boniface, who established a church there. In 1149, Louis the Iron built a castle near the Unstrut River, which later became the center of a landgravial office until 1490, when it was absorbed into the Langensalza office. Thamsbrück was officially recognized as a town in 1206, when Landgrave Hermann I confirmed its status in a deed of donation. The town played a role in military campaigns, including a 1500 expedition against rebellious Frisians. Until 1815, Thamsbrück belonged to the Electorate of Langensalza, before being ceded to Prussia, where it remained part of the Langensalza district until 1944. In 1994, Thamsbrück was incorporated into Bad Langensalza, marking the end of its independent status. Today, it is known for its Indulgence Festival (Ablassfest), a tradition spanning over 500 years, and remains a small but historically significant locality in Thuringia.15 | Local heritage book of Thamsbrück |
| Tschirma | Tschirma, a village in the Greiz district of Thuringia, Germany, has a history dating back to its first documented mention on March 25, 1432. Originally part of Reuss, the village was briefly united with Wildetaube between 1922 and 1924 as the municipality Tschirma-Wildetaube. The village’s church, which dates back to the 12th century, was baroque-style renovated in 1703 and remains its oldest architectural landmark. Tschirma was historically assigned to the Vorderschloss territory during the division of the Greizer region in 1449, though its territorial affiliation changed multiple times over the centuries. On January 22, 1994, Tschirma was officially incorporated into the town of Berga/Elster, marking the end of its independent municipal status. | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Voigtstedt | Voigtstedt, a village in the Kyffhäuserkreis district of Thuringia, Germany, has been part of several regional territories throughout its history. In earlier centuries, it was under the jurisdiction of the Electorate of Saxony, which controlled vast areas of central Germany. Later, it became part of the Province of Saxony within the Kingdom of Prussia, following territorial reorganizations in the 19th century. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Voigtstedt remained within Prussian Saxony, specifically under the Regierungsbezirk Merseburg, which was an administrative district overseeing governance in the region. After World War I, it continued as part of the Free State of Prussia within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Voigtstedt was incorporated into the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Halle, which was one of the administrative divisions of the German Democratic Republic. After German reunification in 1990, Voigtstedt was integrated into the modern state of Thuringia, where it remains today as part of the Kyffhäuserkreis district and, since 2019, a locality within the town of Artern.16 17 | Local family database Amt Voigtstedt |
| Waltersdorf | Waltersdorf, a municipality in the Saale-Holzland-Kreis district of Thuringia, Germany, has a long and complex history. First officially documented in 1358, it is located in a wooded region near Stadtroda, approximately 20 kilometers southwest of Eisenberg. Historically, Waltersdorf was part of various regional territories, including Saxony and later Prussia, following territorial reorganizations in the 19th century. During the German Empire (1871–1918), it was under Prussian Saxony, specifically within the Regierungsbezirk Erfurt, an administrative district overseeing governance in the region. After World War I, it remained part of the Free State of Prussia within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Waltersdorf was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Gera, one of the administrative divisions of the German Democratic Republic. After German reunification in 1990, Waltersdorf was integrated into the modern state of Thuringia, where it remains today as part of the Saale-Holzland-Kreis district.18 | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Wendehausen | Wendehausen, a village in the Unstrut-Hainich district of Thuringia, Germany, has a long and complex history. Historically, it was part of Saxony and later incorporated into Prussia following territorial reorganizations in the 19th century. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Wendehausen was under Prussian Saxony, specifically within the Regierungsbezirk Erfurt, an administrative district overseeing governance in the region. After World War I, it remained part of the Free State of Prussia within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Wendehausen was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Erfurt, one of the administrative divisions of the German Democratic Republic. After German reunification in 1990, Wendehausen was integrated into the modern state of Thuringia, where it remains today as part of the Unstrut-Hainich district.19 | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Wendehausen/Schierschwende |
| Wernsdorf (near Berga) | Wernsdorf, a village in the Greiz district of Thuringia, Germany, has a long and complex history. First mentioned in 1306, it was historically a Waldhufendorf, a settlement type associated with medieval Germanic colonization. During the Holy Roman Empire, Wernsdorf was part of various regional territories, including Saxony and later Prussia, following territorial reorganizations in the 19th century. In the German Empire (1871–1918), it was under Prussian Saxony, specifically within the Regierungsbezirk Erfurt, an administrative district overseeing governance in the region. After World War I, it remained part of the Free State of Prussia within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Wernsdorf was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Gera, one of the administrative divisions of the German Democratic Republic. On January 1, 1974, Wernsdorf was incorporated into Wolfersdorf, and after German reunification in 1990, it became part of Thuringia, where it remains today as a district of Berga-Wünschendorf. | Local family database Greizer Umland (Greiz district) |
| Westenfeld | Westenfeld, a village in the Hildburghausen district of Thuringia, Germany, has a deep-rooted history. First mentioned in 871 as “Westelernvelt,” it later appeared in records as “Westinvelt” in 1185, when it had an independent church. Initially under the Counts of Henneberg, it became part of Veßra Abbey in 1187. The Thirty Years’ War brought devastation to Westenfeld—Croatian troops burned the village in 1634, and another attack in 1635 left only the church and a few houses standing. By 1657, another fire further destroyed much of the settlement. Despite these challenges, Westenfeld thrived due to its fertile farmland in the Grabfeld region, an area rich in Celtic and medieval remains. On December 31, 2012, Westenfeld was incorporated into Römhild, marking the end of its independent municipal status. Today, it remains a historically significant locality, preserving its heritage and rural landscape. | Local heritage book of Westenfeld |
| Wüstheuterode | Wüstheuterode (Wuestheuterode) is a village in the Eichsfeld district of Thuringia, Germany. It was first mentioned in 1338 as “Hadewartherode” and later became known as Wüstheuterode due to a period of abandonment following its destruction in 1424 during a conflict with the Reichsstadt Mühlhausen. The village was historically under the jurisdiction of the von Hanstein family and belonged to Kurmainz until 1802, when it became part of Prussia. Since January 1, 2024, Wüstheuterode has been a part of the municipality of Uder.20 | Familienbuch Eichsfeld – Wüstheuterode |
| Zella | Zella, a locality in Thuringia, Germany, has a long and complex history. Historically, it was part of the County of Henneberg before transitioning to Saxony and later being incorporated into Prussia following territorial reorganizations in the 19th century. During the German Empire (1871–1918), Zella was under Prussian Saxony, specifically within the Regierungsbezirk Erfurt, an administrative district overseeing governance in the region. After World War I, it remained part of the Free State of Prussia within the Weimar Republic. Following World War II, Zella was placed within the Soviet Occupation Zone and later became part of East Germany (DDR) under the Bezirk Suhl, one of the administrative divisions of the German Democratic Republic. After German reunification in 1990, Zella was integrated into the modern state of Thuringia, where it remains today as part of the Schmalkalden-Meiningen district within the town of Zella-Mehlis. |
Sources:
- https://www.gemeinde-berlingerode.de/portrait/ ↩︎
- https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bischofferode_%28Am_Ohmberg%29 ↩︎
- https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caselwitz ↩︎
- https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clodra ↩︎
- https://www.ershausen-geismar.de/verzeichnis/visitenkarte.php?mandat=163975 ↩︎
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Effelder,_Eichsfeld ↩︎
- https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/F%C3%B6rtha ↩︎
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frankenheim ↩︎
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rohrberg,_Thuringia ↩︎
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silberhausen ↩︎
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steinbach,_Eichsfeld ↩︎
- https://eichsfeld-archiv.de/beitrag/2019-03_Zur_Chronik_der_Gemeinde_Struth_bei_M%C3%BChlhausen_i._Th%C3%BCr. ↩︎
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S%C3%BCdeichsfeld ↩︎
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohlsdorf-Teichwolframsdorf ↩︎
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thamsbr%C3%BCck ↩︎
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voigtstedt ↩︎
- https://wiki.genealogy.net/Voigtstedt ↩︎
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waltersdorf,_Thuringia ↩︎
- https://www.meyersgaz.org/place/21112017 ↩︎
- https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/W%C3%BCstheuterode ↩︎
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