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  • South Africa wills and probates index
    • Page from the Will of Cecil Rhodes
    Page from the Will of Cecil Rhodes.

    Wills and probate records in South Africa are invaluable for tracing family history, particularly due to the country’s diverse colonial past—Dutch, British, and later union governments each shaped its record-keeping. Probate is generally referred to as deceased estate files, containing wills, death notices, inventories, and distribution accounts. These documents are held at regional offices of the Master of the High Court and the National Archives. Death notices, a uniquely rich genealogical source, often include parents’ and children’s names, birthplace, and marriage details. Records date from the late 17th century in the Cape Colony and extend through to the 20th century. For genealogists, South African probate records are essential for identifying lineage, property, and migrations across provinces and continents.


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    APA citation (7th Ed.)

    Maor Malul. (2025, April 8). *South Africa wills and probates index*. MyHeritage Wiki. https://www.myheritage.com/wiki/South_Africa_wills_and_probates_index