Last week, I posted about finding that a large number of relatives were from a smallish area in Germany. I had some requests from people who wanted to know where their relatives were from. So here are some tips you can use to try to find out.
Birth and Death Certificates
Frequently, birth certificates and baptismal records will list the parents place of birth. It may only say a country, but you can use that to research further.
Death certificates may also list the parents place of origin. In this record, Anthony Wellman’s parents, Gerhard and Catherine (Maria Catherina Krümpelmann) Wellman are listed as being from Germany.
Ship’s Manifests
Typically, a ship’s manifest will show country of origin as well as intended destination. This manifest for the Albany shows the origin of Erasmus Straub as being from the Württemberg area of Germany. Using this information, I was able to find he was born in Beiringen. You can read more about him here.
Census Records
Census records also provide information. They usually tell where the person was born and often give the birthplace of the person’s parents. This census record shows the parents of both Henry Vonderhaar and Anna Wellman, his wife, as being Germany. I recently wrote about their anniversary.
Naturalization papers
Naturalization records always give the country of origin. They may have more detailed information, depending on who filled out the paperwork and when it was completed. This record for Maria Kuhlmann shows her birthplace as Bokel, Germany. You can read more about her here.
Hopefully this will help your search!
Sherrey
Amazing what’s available if you know where and how!