There are a vast number of resources available for researching family history. Be sure to check into the following records as part of your genealogy search. A good place to start is with your local city/state county records office. If local, visit their office and request the information in person. If not local, write a letter telling them who you are, what information you are seeking and most importantly why you need this information (sample letter appears later on). Remember that you will only have access to public records, never any “sealed” records. Sealed records are sealed to protect the personal privacy of people.

 

·        Agricultural, Federal, and Mortality Schedule

·        Church Records, Certificate of Birth, Family Bible

·        Case Files, Convictions, Decrees, Dockets, Judgements, Court Orders

·        Autopsy Reports, Cemetery Records, Coroner/Police/Sheriff reports, Death Certificate, Funeral Home Records, Obituaries

·        Hospitals, Schools, Telephone book

·        Justice of the Peace, Lawyer's Briefs