To cut a long story short... I am trying to trace the family I never knew I had - this includes, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, grandparents etc.

My family come from Goeppingen/Hohenstaufen.

Where is the best place to do research? The state archives in Stuttgart? Are there archives in Goeppingen? Most of the websites are in German, so I am having trouble finding information online!

I will be able to speak German by the time I arrive in September, which will make things a whole lot easier!!!

I know my fathers name, birth date, and his parents names and the church they used to go to... but that's it. I thought I'd start by visiting the church and looking at the grave stones and church records. I have a feeling lots of the records I'm looking for will have been destroyed in the war...

If anyone can give me advice on the archives etc in Baden Wuttermberg, I would be truly grateful!!!

How long does it take on the train from Stuttgart to Goeppingen?
How long does it take on the bus from Geoppingen train station to Hohrein?
How long does it take on the bus from Goeppingen train station to Hohenstaufen?

I am coming to Germany in September - and I cannot find accommodation under 35 euros a night... even the hostel is full! I need to get to Hohrein, so I am hoping I can get there from Stuttgart everyday while I conduct some research.


Thanks