Death Records

Since much of family history research is done by stepping back through time, death records are often the first found for our ancestors. Depending upon the completeness of the death record, it can reveal the date and location of death, age at death (which can be used to calculate an approximate date of birth if none is specifically listed), cause of death, as well as the names of parents. When using death records, keep in mind that the information about the deceased is provided by someone else, so it is not uncommon to find incorrect information in the official death certificate.

First Name

Last Name

Tips for the Effective Use of Death Records
Even though you may be able to find death records online, you should also make every effort to obtain a copy of the original death record as it was filed at the time of death in the city or town where the death occurred. Where possible, a copy should be just that - a photostat copy or scanned digital image of the original death certificate or death record as it was originally recorded shortly after the death of the individual in question. Transcribed records always introduce the chance for additional errors or ommissions which may complicate your research further down the line. The example below is an 1892 death record from Waterbury, New Haven County, Connecticut.