Hausbuch

Hausbuch, also referred to as “Hausbuch eines Dorfes” or simply “Hausbuch”, is a historical administrative record primarily used in German-speaking regions from the late Middle Ages through the early modern period. The term literally translates to “house book” and denotes a compilation of information about households, families, and property within a particular municipality or village. Its primary purpose was to provide a comprehensive snapshot of the local population for tax assessment, civic responsibilities, and legal matters.

The earliest known Hausbücher date back to the 14th century and were typically kept by municipal authorities or local churches. Entries included the names of heads of households, details of dependents, property ownership, and instances of inheritance or mortgages. In many instances, these records also recorded births, marriages, and deaths, making them valuable genealogical sources for modern researchers. While the concept is similar to the “household register” or “census” found in other parts of Europe, the Hausbuch was uniquely tailored to the administrative customs of the Holy Roman Empire and its successor states.

The practice largely declined in the 19th century with the introduction of systematic civil registration and more standardized censuses. Nevertheless, surviving Hausbücher are considered crucial primary sources for historians, anthropologists, and genealogists. They provide insights into settlement patterns, economic structures, and social hierarchies of past societies. Many are now digitised and available through German state archives, university libraries, and specialized genealogical platforms, allowing broader access to this nuanced view of community life.