Online Genealogy Databases
Ancestry.com
Primary Genealogy Database
One of the largest online genealogy resources, providing access to millions of historical records including census data, immigration records, military records, and family trees. Excellent for tracing Kieffer lineages in North America and Europe.
FamilySearch
Free Genealogy Resource
Maintained by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, FamilySearch offers free access to billions of genealogical records, including church records, vital records, and census data from around the world.
MyHeritage
DNA & Genealogy
Combines genealogical research with DNA testing, helping to connect Kieffer descendants and discover family relationships through genetic analysis and comprehensive historical records.
GeneaNet
European Genealogy
Specialized in European genealogy, GeneaNet provides access to thousands of family trees and historical records, particularly valuable for researching German and French ancestry.
German & European Archives
German State Archives (Landesarchive)
Each German state maintains comprehensive archives containing vital records, church records, and historical documents. Essential for researching Kieffer origins in Germany.
French Archives
For researching Kieffer in Alsace-Lorraine, the French Archives provide access to regional records and documents.
Austrian State Archives
The Austrian State Archives contain valuable records for researching Kieffer families in Austria and the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Specialized Genealogical Resources
Rootsweb
Free genealogical resource offering surname registries, mailing lists, and user-generated content about specific family names including Kieffer.
The Kieffer Surname Registry
Dedicated registry for Kieffer family members and researchers, allowing you to register your lineage and connect with others researching the same family lines.
German Genealogical Associations
Professional organizations dedicated to German genealogy, offering resources, publications, and research guidance.
Research Tips & Guides
Getting Started with Surname Research
Begin with what you know and work backward. Start with documents you already have (birth certificates, marriage records, family bibles) and build your family tree from there.
Understanding Name Variants
As described on our Name Variants page, the Kieffer surname has multiple spellings. When searching historical records, try variations like Kiefer, Kiffer, and other regional forms.
Immigration Records
Ship manifests, naturalization papers, and immigration documents often contain valuable genealogical information. These records frequently show the exact origin point and can help identify specific family lineages.
Census Data
U.S. Census records (1790-1950 available to public) and foreign census data provide snapshots of families at specific points in time, showing household composition, ages, occupations, and birthplaces.
Church Records
Baptisms, marriages, and burials recorded by churches often contain genealogical information not found elsewhere. These records are particularly valuable for pre-20th century research.
Academic & Historical References
Published Works on Surname Origins
- Bahlow, Hans. "Deutsches Namenlexikon" (German Name Dictionary) - Comprehensive reference on German surname origins
- Tjeder, David. "The Kieffer Family in America" - Historical documentation of American Kieffer descendants
- Various regional German genealogical handbooks and publications
Helpful Organizations
- National Genealogical Society
- Federation of Genealogical Societies
- Association of Professional Genealogists
- Society of German Genealogy (SGGEE)
DNA Testing & Genetic Genealogy
DNA Testing Services
DNA testing can help confirm relationships and discover unknown connections to other Kieffer descendants worldwide:
How to Contribute
If you have conducted research on the Kieffer family name, published findings, or would like to contribute resources to this site, we welcome your input. We value contributions from researchers and genealogy enthusiasts.
To contribute: Email us at kieffer@mailo.com with your research findings, resource recommendations, or corrections. Please include relevant sources and documentation.