Genealogy is not just the study of the past, but also the construction of a bridge between the past and the present, illuminating the path to the future
Genealogical research conducted in Belarus represents a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history of familial connections associated with the country's past. Each year, the interest in discovering the origins of one's lineage grows, with more and more people asking the question, "Who were my ancestors?" Many turn to our center to unveil the mysteries of their past. Belarusian history is closely intertwined with the cultures of the East and West, making genealogical research often lead to captivating discoveries.
Аrchival documents available for genealogical research in Belarus cover periods from the 16th century to the present day. Family archives, church metrics, population censuses, and other diverse materials serve as valuable sources of information about the past of each family. Our experts not only assist in reconstructing the genealogical tree but also bring to life the stories of ancestors, placing them in the context of history.
Conducting genealogical research in Belarus requires not only attention to detail and thoroughness but also an understanding of the peculiarities of local history and culture. Each family is unique, and genealogical research contributes to preserving the memory of numerous lineages interwoven with diverse destinies.
One of the most important documents in conducting genealogical research is the metric books maintained in parish churches of various denominations, where records of baptisms, marriages, and deaths were documented. In Belarus, alongside the Orthodox population, Catholics, Lutherans, and Jews also resided, and the records were kept at different times in various languages: Latin, German, Polish, and Russian. As part of the Russian Empire, censuses of the taxable population (Revision Lists) were conducted in Belarusian provinces, providing information about family composition, specifying the relationship of its members to the head of the household.
Additionally, our experts actively explore other valuable historical materials that aid in unraveling the biographies of individuals who lived in past centuries. Significant sources of biographical information often include personal records from the 19th and 20th centuries related to education and employment (service records). Special attention is given to local censuses conducted in cities and rural areas (family lists). The local nobility, which became part of the Russian Empire in the late 18th century, holds a particular place in Belarusian history, and sources on its genealogy are truly fascinating. Numerous materials have been preserved regarding the Jews living in Belarus. All these sources allow for a more detailed understanding of the daily lives of ancestors who left their mark on history.
Time inexorably races forward, carrying away the pages of history and the mysterious destinies of ancestors left in the past. It's challenging to comprehend, but behind each person in the genealogical tree lies an entire lived life. These individuals left their mark in time, filling their lives with events, joy, sorrow, happiness, and sadness. Despite having long faded into oblivion, their legacy, like an invisible thread, connects us to the past. The importance of preserving this history is undeniable. The European Genealogical Center provides an opportunity to dive into family history. Remembering, cherishing, and respecting it not only allows us to delve into our past but also strengthens our connection to what makes us a unique part of this world.