Dresden, Germany, Crematorium Registers, 1911-1952

About this collection

This collection contains records from the Dresden-Tolkewitz crematorium for the years 1911 up to and including 1952. They are referred to in these documents as cremation registers (Einäscherungsregister).

Dresden is located on the Elbe River about 19 miles from the Czech border and is the capital of the German state of Saxony. Due to its location, and in recognition of its art and architecture, Dresden has been known since the early 19th century as "Florence on the Elbe." During the time period of this collection until 1918, Dresden belonged to the Kingdom of Saxony.

Complementing the death records kept by the civil registry offices, cremation records were created by local burial offices. These records were collected chronologically and bound into yearbooks.

What you can find in the records

Details about cremated individuals were recorded on pre-printed forms which were filled in by hand. In each record, the date of death usually differs from the date of cremation. Depending on the form used, the following details may be found:

• Sequential number
• Deceased: Given Names, Last Name, Maiden Name, Occupation, Date/Place of Birth, Last Residence/Address, Date and Time of Cremation, Date of Approval Certificate from Issuing Authority (for ex. Police Dept.), Place of Interment (Cemetery or Columbarium)
• Beginning in 1935, records may also include Religious Denomination and Cause of Death
• Notes, especially of any modification to burial (such as relocating or lowering an urn)

More about using this collection

Cremation registers were usually laid out in tables of multiple entries extending across facing pages. Using the search form, you can searh by Last Name, First Name, Date of Birth, Date of Death, Certificate Number or even date of cremation. Under "Browse this collection,” select the Year and Volume Number of the cremation register desired.