Please note: Records that contain sensitive information (such as birth records, marriage records, etc.) are subjected to embargo periods.
An embargo period is a time frame that is imposed on a record, where the record is not publicly available for a period of time. Family can request copies of the record.
Embargo periods vary depending on the state, but typically are at least subjected to 50 years.
Genealogical records live across a variety of local, state, federal, and private institutions. Vital Records (marriage, death, birth, etc.) are government owned and housed. The chart below shows where these records can be found.
| Categories of Records: | Where are they? | Examples of Records: |
|---|---|---|
|
Federal Records |
National Archives and Records Administration |
Immigration/Naturalization Records, Passports, Military Records, Census Records, Criminal Records, Taxes |
|
State Records |
State Library and Archives |
Vital Records, Land/Deeds, Criminal Records, Naturalization Records, Taxes, Adoption Records |
|
County/Town Records |
County Courthouse – Later transferred to the State Library and Archives |
Vital Records, Land/Deeds, Wills, Criminal Records, Taxes |
It can be helpful to figure out where records "live" or who might be keepers of them when you are tracking down information on your family. Most genealogical records would be found on the federal or state level (like NARA or a state archives), but there are some records that can be found on the local level (in churches, municipalities, or local historical societies).
Contact these local institutions before arriving to conduct your research - some places require an appointment.