Estonia Military Records

Conscription lists
Research use: Hard to research because lists are arranged chronologically by district. However, they serve as a census substitute for males.

Record type: A military record of conscripts.

General: Lists of those being called up for military service. Drafting of selected groups began earlier but as of January 1, 1874, all 21-year-old males were subject to military service. Conscription occurred each year in October. Initially, the term of service was 6 years active and 9 years reserve. The length of active duty was reduced to 5 years in 1876 and then varied between 3-5 years thereafter. Deferments were granted for only sons, sole breadwinners, etc. Over 50 percent of the draftees were not inducted.

Time period: 1874-1920.

Contents: Name of the draftee, birth date, religion, marital status, literacy; later lists include names of parents, siblings and their ages.

Location: State Historical Archive in Tartu.

Population coverage: 15-40% depending on the time period.