Lesson-3 - PUBLIC RECORDS - WHERE TO LOOK

Public records are available from a number of places. Most of these sources are free, however often government offices charge for copies or for locating the record or document. On some government records you will need to decide if you want a certified record, or just a copy of the record. Often there will be an additional charge for a certified document such as marriage certificate or birth certificate. In most cases a certified document is not required for Genealogy.

With the new laws to prevent identity theft, it is becoming more difficult to get some of the Genealogy information. Often the government office requires proof that there is a family relationship to the person for whom the document is sought.

LOCAL RECORDS

STATE RECORDS

Public records are available in every state at the state library. Some of the records that are available are the following:

In California Genealogy records are available at the Californio State Archives Library. Every state has a similar library. Check Online or in the Telephone directory to find the location.

FEDERAL RECORDS

Family History Centers

The Church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints has a wonderful collection of Genealogy Documents. The major center is in Salt lake City, but there are other major centers around the world. There are over 4000 Family History centers.

FamilySearch offers a network of 4,500 facilities offering public access to Genealogical records from all over the world. These range from the world’s largest in Salt Lake City to locations in more than 80 countries. At a FamilySearch center you can search billions of online records. These centers also offer access to the LDS circulating collection of 2.5 million microfilms from over 100 countries.

Volunteer staff at a FamilySearch center will help you understand and use their available resources. If you are a beginner, they can help you get started with your own family history. In some locations, expert research advisors are available.

There are Family History Centers in most major cities in the United States. Consult your local phone directory for the ones in your area. There is also an Online listing of all of the locations at: https://familysearch.org.

Next Lesson