Birth records

Birth records are a valuable source of information. They generally include the person's name, birth date and birth county, as well as the names of the father and mother. In some cases, the mother's maiden name is given. Also, in some cases, the birthplace of the parents is recorded as well. These are helpful hints that can be used to move your search back a generation.

Records are provided in different formats. Sometimes you will be able to get an actual copy of the original and in other cases, the county will transcribe the information into a modern day legal form. Finally, sometimes you will get the information transcribed into an "information" form. If the last happens to you and you think there might be more information on the original document, you might want to inquire if it would be possible to get a copy of this.

Also be sure to note that the name on the certificate may be different from other names used by the person you are searching. Nicknames may be used in later years and eventually evolve into the person's legal name. In addition, the name of one of the parents listed on the document may have changed.

• How to use birth records
• Birth records: search example

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