James...i too had the same problem with south bend...i live in
indianapolis...they told me that the death certificate has more information
than the birth certificate...but that only depends on if the informant
knows the correct information...stephanie
-----Original Message-----
From: James Maki [SMTP:jwmaki@worldnet.att.net]
Sent: Saturday, July 25, 1998 7:23 AM
To: INSTJOSE-L(a)rootsweb.com
Subject: [INSTJOSE-L] Ability to access Vital Records
I have just recently discovered a connection in South Bend, Indiana
and sent off a request for a birth certificate for the year 1891. I
received my letter back with a written notation that "we issue no
birth record on anyone who is deceased." Now, how do genealogists
function in Indiana?
Perhaps I asked the question incorrectly? I asked for a birth
certificate. In Michigan, it is simply to get a certified birth
certificate for a deceased person, and many counties will even issue
a genealogical copy for a smaller fee.
I also asked for information on obtaining information on a marriage
license (mid 1800s) and was directed to microfilm from GSU or FHC. I
know that the state has a pre-1850 searchable database on line, but
what I need is several years past that time. As a last (expensive)
resort, the State of Michigan will provide copies of birth, death,
marriage and divorce from about 1870 onward. From the info that St.
Joseph county sent, that is not an option with Indiana.
So, I guess I am just venting my frustration and wondering how
people do genealogical research "long distance" with Indiana? BTW, I
lived in Indianapolis for 10 years and my daughter was born there, so
I consider myself part Hoosier.
And lastly, if anyone has access to a marriage index for Indiana/St.
Joseph county, I would appreciate a look-up for JAMES M. ROOF (born
in Indiana) and ELLA M. SWEAZEY (born in Ohio), married in 1877
according to the 1900 census. I sure would appreciate the assistance.
Jim
Jim Maki
jwmaki(a)worldnet.att.net