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Nobility

Nobility Lineage Books

The books were compiled by the nobility to establish their social status and confirm their privileges. Catherine the Great required the compilation of lineage books to qualify for membership in the local assembly of noble deputies established in 1785. A copy was sent into St. Petersburg to officially register the lineage.

These records are the quickest method of establishing noble lineages and family groups. Lineage books are often located in only one archival record group and thus are relatively easy to find and use. These records were compiled for the purpose of registering proven nobility during the period of 1785 to 1920. They generally contain family genealogical tables, record of awards and recognition.

The central copy is located in the Russian State Historical Archive in St. Petersburg. It is not clear to what degree the central file is complete. Local copies are found in state archives. Only about 3% of the population can be found in these record as they deal with only a small social echelon. Because noble lineages were compiled for establishing rank in order to receive privilege or as a matter of prestige, their accuracy and reliability are suspect.