Orphan Register Suriname 1837-1877

In this database, you will find the general orphan register (Algemeen weesregister) for the period between 1837 and 1877 as recorded by the Weesmeester. The orphan register contains information on the names, gender, birth, parents, caretakers, place of residence, and property of the registered orphans.

In 1874, an important change took place in the organisation of orphan care in Suriname. The responsibility for the care of orphaned children who fell under public guardianship of the government and who received alimony from the state was transferred to the state charity institution Landsgrond Boniface. Three years later, in 1877, the Orphan, Guardianship, and Unmanaged Estates Chamber was dissolved.