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 Poland and the historical places of residence of Poles is a fascinating journey into the past, uncovering extraordinary family stories and contributing to the rich cultural heritage of the country. With each passing year, interest in the origin of one's lineage grows, and more people are asking the question, "Who were my ancestors?" Many turn to our center to discover the secrets of their past. As Poland is closely connected with the surrounding Prussia, Austria-Hungary, and Russia, genealogical research often leads to fascinating discoveries.
Sources related to Polish genealogy cover the period from the 17th century to the present day. When it comes to the nobility, the history of a specific family can trace back to the 15th century! Family archives, church records, population censuses, and other diverse materials become valuable sources of information about the past of each family. Our specialists assist not only in reconstructing the family tree but also in bringing to life the stories of ancestors by providing historical context.
Conducting genealogical research in Poland and neighboring countries requires not only precision and attention to detail but also an understanding of the specific local history and culture. Every family is unique, and genealogical research allows preserving the memory of many generations intertwined with various fates.
One of the most important sources in conducting genealogical research is the metrical books where baptism, marriage, and death records were recorded. These documents were created in Catholic churches, Lutheran churches, Orthodox churches, and Jewish synagogues. In different periods and different parts of present-day Poland, records were kept in Latin, Polish, Russian, German, and Hebrew (for Jews). A distinct place in Polish history is occupied by the nobility (szlachta). The sources related to its genealogy are truly fascinating. Biographical descriptions and ancestors' records reaching back several centuries allow delving into the history of the family and feeling a connection with significant events of the past.
Additionally, our experts actively explore other valuable historical materials that help uncover biographies of people who lived in past centuries. Important sources of biographical information often include personal records from the 19th-20th centuries containing details about places of education and employment (service records). Local population censuses, conducted in cities and rural areas (family censuses), are also of great significance. In the Kingdom of Poland from the second half of the 19th century to 1914, these censuses were written in the Russian language. Useful sources also include military registry documents as well as property descriptions and plans. All these materials allow for a more detailed examination of the daily lives of ancestors who left their mark in 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.