Andrea Bentschneider

Andrea Bentschneider, based in Hamburg, Germany, is renowned for her expertise and contributions to the field of genealogy. Since establishing “Beyond History” in 2004, she has emerged as Germany’s foremost expert in genealogical research. Andrea’s proficiency has led her to feature prominently in various national and international television formats, including shows like “Who Do You Think You Are?” and “Finding Your Roots.” She is also a regular guest on German radio and TV programs. Her firm specializes in ancestor research, World Wars documentation, Jewish family research, and assistance with citizenship applications.

With over 20 years of professional experience, Andrea and her team have completed more than 2,000 research projects for clients across the globe. Her work philosophy, “We give your ancestors a voice and tell their stories,” reflects her commitment to uncovering and honoring the narratives of ancestors. Beyond History’s website: www.beyond-history.com

Andrea is also the founder of the German Genealogy Collective (GGC), an educational membership community designed to support researchers in navigating German records with confidence. Launched in October 2024, the GGC has become a collaborative space for individuals exploring their German heritage. It offers exclusive masterclasses, live Q&A sessions, research guidance, and expert training under Andrea’s leadership. Members benefit from a growing library of specialized content, practical tips for conducting their own research, and the support of an engaged community. Learn more at: https://germangenealogycollective.com

Since 2013, Andrea has served as the President of the Association of German-speaking Professional Genealogists. She joined the IGGP board as a Director at large in 2024. A passionate educator, she regularly conducts webinars and presentations in English and German at various conferences.

Andrea's Upcoming Live Webinars (3)

Fri, April 4 2025: 7:00 UTC
Engagements, Weddings, marriage contracts and divorces in 19th century Germany
Fri, April 4 2025: 7:00 UTC
Explore 19th-century German engagement, marriage and divorce traditions, historical social norms and legal regulations, including economic motives, marriage contracts, remarriage, and strict divorce processes. This presentation will explore the complex world of marriage and divorce in nineteenth-century Germany, emphasizing its importance to genealogical research. Participants will gain insight into the economic, social, and legal factors that shaped marriage and divorce practices. The session will include examples of historical documents and introduce new types of records beyond traditional church records.
Explore 19th-century German engagement, marriage and divorce traditions, historical social norms and legal regulations, including economic motives, marriage contracts, remarriage, and strict divorce processes. This presentation will explore the complex world of marriage and divorce in nineteenth-century Germany, emphasizing its importance to genealogical research. Participants will gain insight into the economic, social, and legal factors that shaped marriage and divorce practices. The session will include examples of historical documents and introduce new types of records beyond traditional church records.
Fri, April 4 2025: 7:00 UTC
Fri, April 4 2025: 10:00 UTC
Subjects, Citizens, and Serfs: Unpacking Germany’s Historical Social Order
Fri, April 4 2025: 10:00 UTC
Gain an understanding of the different social statuses in historical Germany. Learn about the living conditions of the different classes in Germany. Until the foundation of the German Empire in 1871, there were a total of 22 monarchies and three free cities in what is now Germany. And there were almost as many different regulations concerning the rights and duties of the residents. Citizenship was usually not acquired by birth, but only after an application and the strict examination of the fulfillment of several requirements. This presentation will give information on acquisition and loss of citizenship and the respective reasons for it.
Gain an understanding of the different social statuses in historical Germany. Learn about the living conditions of the different classes in Germany. Until the foundation of the German Empire in 1871, there were a total of 22 monarchies and three free cities in what is now Germany. And there were almost as many different regulations concerning the rights and duties of the residents. Citizenship was usually not acquired by birth, but only after an application and the strict examination of the fulfillment of several requirements. This presentation will give information on acquisition and loss of citizenship and the respective reasons for it.
Fri, April 4 2025: 10:00 UTC
Wed, September 3 2025: 15:30 UTC
Exploring Mecklenburg’s Rich History and Genealogical Treasures
Wed, September 3 2025: 15:30 UTC
Dive into the fascinating history of the Mecklenburg region and discover how to trace your ancestral roots with expert guidance. This presentation will begin with a journey through the historic landscape of two Mecklenburgs - Mecklenburg-Schwerin and Mecklenburg-Strelitz - highlighting their cultural and political development over the centuries. We will explore a wealth of genealogical resources, both online and in archives, that can help you uncover your family's past. Special emphasis will be placed on church records, civil records, and the Mecklenburg census. But you will also learn about special sources off the beaten path, such as family records and emigration documents. Whether you're just beginning your genealogical journey or looking for new avenues of research, this presentation will provide valuable insights and strategies to help you piece together your Mecklenburg heritage.
Dive into the fascinating history of the Mecklenburg region and discover how to trace your ancestral roots with expert guidance. This presentation will begin with a journey through the historic landscape of two Mecklenburgs - Mecklenburg-Schwerin and Mecklenburg-Strelitz - highlighting their cultural and political development over the centuries. We will explore a wealth of genealogical resources, both online and in archives, that can help you uncover your family's past. Special emphasis will be placed on church records, civil records, and the Mecklenburg census. But you will also learn about special sources off the beaten path, such as family records and emigration documents. Whether you're just beginning your genealogical journey or looking for new avenues of research, this presentation will provide valuable insights and strategies to help you piece together your Mecklenburg heritage.
Wed, September 3 2025: 15:30 UTC

Andrea's Webinars (9)