Where to Obtain Vital Records

Vital Records as a source of genealogical evidence is considered by some to be too modern, but they should not be overlooked. For the most part Vital Records are considered Primary Evidence that a person or event existed. However, careful consideration should be taken when using Vital Records. Errors can exist in Vital Records as a relative could have provided the wrong information (i.e. Person's name) or the Clerk could have transcribed the information erroneously. For example, I have a Marriage Certificate that has my Grandfather's name misspelled. In order to obtain your Vital Records in a timely manner your request should be as follows:

Give the following facts when writing for birth or death records:
1. Full name of person whose record is being requested.
2. Sex.
3. Parents' names, including maiden name of mother.
4. Month, day, and year of birth or death.
5. Place of birth or death (city or town, county, and State; and name of hospital, if known).
6. Purpose for which the copy is needed.
7. Relationship to person whose record is being requested.

Give the following facts when writing for marriage records:
1. Full names of bride and groom.
2. Month, day, and year of marriage.
3. Place of marriage (city or town, county, and state).
4. Purpose for which the copy is needed.
5. Relationship to person whose record is being requested.

Give the following facts when writing for divorce records:
1. Full names of husband and wife.
2. Date of divorce or annulment.
3. Place of divorce or annulment.
4. Type of final decree.
5. Purpose for which the copy is needed.
6. Relationship to person whose record is being requested.

Note: Sometimes it is not possible to obtain all this information prior to your request. The above is only a guide to speed up your request. I have obtain Vital Records without all the above information included.

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