Searching for and Finding Traces at the Bielefeld City Archive
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Searching for and Finding Traces: Researching Bielefeld's History Yourself
How can the history of Bielefeld between 1933 and 1945 be made visible? The workshop Searching for and Finding Traces invites you to discover historical sources, develop your own research questions, and write contributions for the online portal Trace Search Bielefeld 1933–1945 on November 17, 2026.
Cultural memory begins locally
The online portal makes local memory culture and the crimes of civilization of National Socialism accessible through concrete places, biographies, and events. More than 240 traces already tell of persecution, disenfranchisement, murder, perpetration, exclusion, and resistance in Bielefeld. Many stories are still waiting to be discovered and documented.
From the historical question to your own trace
The workshop teaches methods of historical research: from finding a topic to working with sources to developing a clear and responsible contribution. The focus is on questions about the people behind the events, local sites, and the forms in which history is transmitted.
Insights into archives, libraries, and academic practice
Veronika Tacke from Bielefeld University as well as Helmut Henschel and Jan-Willem Waterböhr from the Bielefeld City Archive will share insights from their work. They will provide insights into research methods, source work, and the creation of personal contributions. Discussions and individual questions create space for exchange with experienced authors.
An educational offer for history enthusiasts
Whether with years of experience, a specific idea, or initial questions about Bielefeld's history: The workshop connects cultural education, scientific work, and local memory practice. The exhibition atmosphere of an archive, the materiality of historical documents, and the concentrated study of sources open up a special aesthetic experience of remembering.
Conclusion
The event shows how new historical traces emerge from questions, sources, and careful observation. Those interested in memory culture, city history, or writing their own contributions will experience an inspiring evening at the city archive and receive practical impulses for their own research. Participation is free; preregistration by November 16 is requested.
Official channels of the City Archive and State Historical Library Bielefeld:
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- Website: https://www.stadtarchiv-bielefeld.de
