Learn about America’s German Originality

Welcome. This website for German American heritage is brought to you by the German National Tourist Office and the German Information Center USA.

Discovering German Heritage – An exciting journey back in time

With more than seven million individuals, Germans were the largest group of immigrants in 19th century America and among the first pioneers to arrive in 1608. According to the 2000 Census, over 51 million Americans claim German heritage.

In 1683 “Germantown” became the first German settlement in America. In promise of land, freedom of religion and refuge, Germans and other Europeans embarked on a trip of their lifetime and for generations have built America’s prosperous identity. Whether or not your family claims German heritage, learning about the impact of German immigrants on American history will surprise you. Use the tabs on top to discover famous Americans with German roots, to find Grandma’s old recipes, and find all information and tools to do research on your own. Heritage centers and emigration museums in Germany welcome you and assist you in your journey back in time.

Trace your family’s ancestry and find out about all things German. Click here to find heritage-related offers, such as customized genealogy tours.