European Resources
Many people in Britain have their ancestral roots in Europe, and any attempt to trace the family tree means looking across the Channel to the Continent. Be warned, though, the biggest problem you'll encounter is language. Records, where you can find them (given the way Europe has been ravaged by war), will be in the native language, with no handy translation. That will make finding what you need a great deal harder, and then, of course, you have to make sense of what you've found. So unless you're fluent in the language, or have access to a good translator, you'll be in trouble. Also, a lot of countries don't have their archives online, meaning either a trip or hiring services locally.
Resources
- In France you'll need the Centre Historique Des Archives Nationale. Unfortunately, there's very little you can access online, although they do tell you how to make an appointment to consult the records.
- The German Federal Archives claims to have an English version of it's site, but it's not yet available. Although the archives seem extensive, quite how useful still remains to be seen.
- Spain has the Archivo Historico Nacional, which doesn't have a real web presence. They're in Madrid, and can be contacted on +34 917 688 500.
- The Hungarian National Archives has resources in English, German and Magyar, very useful for foreign researchers. However, all research has to be done physically at the archives in Budapest. That said, they do offer some databases online, which will at least speed the physical process.
- Poland, too, offers a web site translated into English for its State Archives and some helpful hints. Although it can help you locate records, it really doesn't have much online. For foreign researches, you can use Latin characters for your search, rather than trying to get a Polish font.
- In Sweden there's also a site in English for the Archives with concise information on what's available and how to access it (again, in person, rather than online). Some basic understanding of the language is necessary.
- The Greek General State Archives, once more, have a site in English. It's of limited use however, expect possible links to the Hellenic Archives whose site is all in Greek.
Business energy with a difference
Looking for better business energy options? Whether it’s advanced monitoring, new connections, or adjusting capacity, our sponsor, Purely Energy can help.
📞 Call 0161 521 3400 or simply send us your details below for a no-obligation chat.
Sponsored by Purely Energy
Purely kindly sponsors this site. They help businesses deal with all aspects from securing the lowest prices, capacity upgrades, usage monitoring using their proprietory software, Purely Insights, and many other aspects. Need help with your commercial energy? Enter your details below and they’ll get back to you.
Related Articles in the 'Ancestors Abroad' Category...- Employing a Foreign Genealogist
- Ancestors in Other British Colonies
- American and Nordic Roots
- The Clearance and Scottish Emigration
- The Irish Potato Famine and Emigration
- Transportation Before Australia
- The Importance of Ellis Island in American Immigration
- Canadian Genealogy Sources
- Using the US Registry of War Ration Books
- Using Voters' Records for Tracing US Relatives
- Genealogy in the Isle of Man and Channel Islands
- What If You Have Asian Roots?
- Jewish Genealogy Sources
- Genealogy And Land Records In Ireland
- Scotland Poor Law Records and Genealogy Research
- Scottish Births & Birth Certificates to Trace Ancestors
- Scottish Death Records and Family History Research
- Scottish Marriage and Family History Research
- Using Archived Scottish Wills To Trace Ancestors
- Genealogy Resources In Australia And New Zealand
- How To Use And Find Native American Genealogy Records
- U.S. Land Records
- Using U.S. African-American Records To Trace Ancestors Abroad
- Australian Census to Trace Family History
- Genealogy And U.S. Immigration Records
- Ireland Vital Records
- Irish Census Records
- Irish Emigration Records And Genealogy
- New Zealand Maori Records
- The Importance of Wills In Irish Genealogy
- The Use Of U.S. Birth, Marriages And Death Certificates In Genealogy
- Using Australian Aboriginal Records to Trace Your Family History
- Using U.S. Military Records to Trace Ancestors Abroad
- Australian Military Records and Family History
- Australian Vital Records
- New Zealand Military Records
- New Zealand Birth Records
- New Zealand Death Records
- New Zealand Marriage Records
- New Zealand Vessel Arrival Information to Trace Ancestors
- Researching Australia Immigrant Records for Family History
- Other Useful Genealogy Records In Australia
- Searching for an Australian Will to Research Your Family History
- US Census Records And Genealogy
- Using The Electoral Rolls For Genealogy Research In New Zealand
- European Resources
- Using Canadian Genealogy Sources
- Using U.S. Resources To Trace Ancestors Abroad
- The International Genealogical Index and Your Family Tree Research
Jod - Your Question:Hi, despite numerous searches on the Internet, I can't find where I can do an online search of the latest New Zealand electoral roll (specifically for the Taupo electorate). I need to do it for a will problem. Thanks, JodyOur Response:You would have to contact a main Taupo library to ask for this information.ExploreGenealogy - 16-Feb-16 @ 2:22 PMHi, despite numerous searches on the Internet, I can't find where I can do an online search of the latest New Zealand electoral roll (specifically for the Taupo electorate). I need to do it for a will problem. Thanks, JodyJod - 16-Feb-16 @ 12:40 PMDon't forget wiewaswie.nl a Dutch website that shows a huge amount of information and will let you search in EnglishGreenvalley - 25-Feb-14 @ 10:11 AM
