A research resource for the history of the Rothschild family
The Rothschild family can trace their orgins back to the Frankfurt's Judengasse in the 1450s. Mayer Amschel Rothschild (1744-1812) laid the foundations on which his five sons and their descendants would build a Europe wide banking empire, establishing their businesses and making their family homes in Vienna, London, Paris and Naples, as well as Frankfurt.
By the mid 19th century, the Rothschilds began to enjoy the fruits of their labours, and when they were at their height, the Rothschild family collectively possessed one of the largest private fortunes in the world, which enabled them to create houses, gardens and great collections that have become a significant part of the heritage of Europe.
From magnificent country estates with flamboyant gardens to elegant townhouses and exotic villas, the Rothschilds stamped their distinctive style on their many residences. Their homes also provided wonderful settings for their many and varied collections, themselves testament to the family's drive for perfection in all they set out to achieve. As dedicated collectors, from books to butterflies, stamps to silver, they vied among themselves to develop the most spectacular collections. Not content with merely gathering, the Rothschilds acquired the skills to develop collections of significance, adding to the knowledge of scientists and art historians worldwide. Other members of the family, with scientific inclinations, sought out zoological and horticultural specimens; others pursued political as well as banking careers.
Rothschild family biographies
This microsite contains short biographies of 168 members of the Rothschild family descended from Mayer Amschel Rothschild (1744-1812) of Frankfurt,
Rothschild estates
The Rothschild Archive maintains historical information about principal residences of the Rothschild family in England, France, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy. This microsite contains information about over 75 Rothschild estates and properties in England, France, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and The Netherlands.
The Rothschild Bibliography
The Rothschild Archive maintains a comprehensive bibliography of works written and published by members of the Rothschild family, including scientific papers published Charles Rothschild (1877-1923), Lionel Walter, 2nd Lord Rothschild (1868-1937), Victor, 3rd Lord Rothschild (1910-1990) and Dame Miriam Rothschild (1908-2005).
Go to The Rothschild Family microsite »
A Rothschild Research Forum membership is NOT required to access these microsites.