Yan Clan

Overview

The Yan family, as recorded in Volume 77 of the *Comprehensive Genealogy of the Manchu Clans of the Eight Banners*, primarily records branches such as Yan Chengru, listed under the Nikan surnames within the Manchu banners. Yan Chengru was a bondservant under the Bordered Yellow Banner, residing in Shenyang, and once served as a prefect. His son, Yasitai, served as a deputy general; his grandson, Saiketu, served as an inner steward during the compilation of the genealogy; his great-grandsons, Sangge, Zhongfu, Suozhu, Serte, and Side, served as scribes.

Descendants of the same branch also include treasury officials, inner stewards, and scribes. The branches of Yan Bage and Yan Qiwei also belonged to the Bordered Yellow Banner, residing in Shenyang, with descendants including stable masters, deputy inner stewards, and scribes. The branch of Yan Yi belonged to the Bordered White Banner, residing in Liaoyang, with his great-great-grandson, Yaertai, serving as treasurer.

The prefect was a local civil official, while the deputy general was a military commander. The inner steward managed the personnel and supplies under his jurisdiction. The treasurer and storekeeper were related to specific treasury affairs; although their names were similar, they should be distinguished according to the original records. The scribe (BiTieShi) was a transliteration of the Manchu word *bithesi*, responsible for handling documents, copying, and translation. Records of Yan Chengru's family show that several generations held different positions, indicating that he was not the only one to have held these official posts. Complete lineages and specific appointments for each branch await verification.