Researching your ancestors?

You have come to the right place, especially if you are new to researching your German-Russian ancestors.
Below are step by step directions to get you started.

What's New

Step #1: Getting started

• Best place to start is our Genealogy Tips section where you will find a number of "how to" and "Q&A" articles ranging from Genealogy Basics to understanding GRHS acronyms.

Step #2: GRs in North America

• Not sure where in South Russia your ancestor came from? GRHS has Area Coordinators, volunteers who are the research focal point for geographical areas within the U.S. and Canada.
• ACs create Area pages to help you find the information you are looking for.
• Can't find an AC for your area of focus? Don't worry! Check out our AC Projects page.

Step #3: Surname Search

• Search our Genealogy Database for your surname (pedigree/family data charts, GEDCOMs, death notices, and RIG-focused databases all searchable at the same time!).
• Check out Letter Archive and Obituaries Online Index Project.
• Search the whole GRHS website (including chapter/RIG web pages!).
• We also offer a Surname Exchange for GRHS member.

Step #4: Regions in Russia

• Visit the Clearing House (CH) Project page. The CH coordinates research activities within GRHS and provides a wealth of indices, translations, etc.
• Join the Regional Interest Group (RIG) that focuses on where your ancestor lived in South Russia (it's online and free to GRHS members).
• Make sure you subscribe to the RIG’s online discussion group to connect with others researching in the same area.
• Not sure which RIG to join? Find your village in our village pages. The village’s RIG is in parenthesis (not all villages have a RIG). If you can't find the name of your village, try our complete German-Russian Village List.
• Make contact with the Village Coordinator (VC),(volunteer research focal point for Black Sea German villages), for your village. Our VCs and village pages can provide a wealth of information.
• Connect with others by joining a local chapter.

Step #5: Research in Germany

• Need to research your ancestors' origins? GRHS has Ort Coordinators, volunteers who are the research focal point for geographical areas in Germany.
• Check out the latest Ort Projects.

Step #6: Need Assistance?

• Too busy to do your own research? Contact GRHS Research Services and they will lend a helping hand.
• Would you like to volunteer to help others find their families? Contact