Norka, Russia

Norka, Russia was founded on August 15, 1767 by colonists who primarily originated from the Hessen area of present day Germany. The colony was located on the unsettled Russian steppe near the west bank of the Volga River, about 65 kilometers southwest of the city of Saratov. Norka grew from a fledgling settlement to become the largest and one of the most prosperous German colonies in the Volga region.

Painting of Norka, Russia by Mike Boss

Painting of Norka, Russia by Michael Boss

These pioneers shared a rich life based in German culture and traditions that was influenced by their Russian neighbors and the environment.

Today, those born in Norka and their descendants have migrated to many parts of the world including Canada, the United States, Germany, Argentina, Brazil and Kazakhstan. Many remain in European Russia and Siberia.

Explore this site to learn more about the people and history of Norka, a German colony in Russia.

The Center for Volga German Studies invites you to attend the

2012 American Historical Society of Germans from Russia Annual Convention

being held at Concordia University in Portland, Oregon

14-17 June 2012

Schedule / Registration / Accommodations / Call for Papers

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RECENT ADDITIONS

Obituaries for people born in Norka. This list was compiled by Debbie Persinger. Please contact Debbie if you have questions on any person in included in this list.

Read Departing for the New World a time of sadness by Milton Bauer

Read the story of Emanuel Karl Wuckert who was deported to Kazakhstan

2011 Norka Village Coordinator Report to AHSGR

Below is a July 2010 video posted on YouTube of the Volga German church in Walter. Walter is approximately 37 km from Norka and there were family connections between the two colonies.