Which Vital Record Information are you Looking for?
Massachusetts Vital Records for Genealogy Research: Birth, Marriage & Death
Massachusetts vital records are a wealth of genealogical information. The quantity and quality of family history data in these records differ depending on the type of record (birth, marriage, or death) and the time frame in which it was originally recorded.
Older vital record registers, particularly those from the mid to late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, are useful, but often include less genealogical information than later records. The accuracy of information can also vary according to its proximity to the recorded event.
More modern vital records (post-1925) often include more comprehensive genealogical information, making them valuable resources for family historians and genealogists researching Massachusetts ancestors.
What Genealogical Details Does a Massachusetts Birth Certificate Contain?
How to Find Parents' Names in Early Massachusetts Birth Records
A Massachusetts birth certificate often reveals critical genealogy clues like:
- Full name (first, middle, and last)
- Place of birth (including address and town/city)
- Date of birth (day, month, and year)
- Time of birth (recording did not begin until the 1950s)
- Parents' names, ages, and addresses
- Parents' birthplaces (city, town, state, country; sometimes just state or country)
- Parents' occupations (no longer recorded as of 1990)
- Number of previous children of the mother (not always filled in and no longer recorded)
Where to Locate Massachusetts Marriage Records with Spouse Parentage
Identifying Multiple Marriages in Massachusetts Marriage Records
Massachusetts marriage records typically contain the following genealogical information:
- Names and genders of both parties
- Date of marriage (day, month, and year)
- Exact place of marriage (often includes the church, officiant, etc.)
- Names and birthplaces of both parties' parents
- Birthplaces and ages of both parties (sometimes specific birth dates)
- Occupations of both parties
- Number of times married, divorced, and/or widowed
How Massachusetts Death Certificates Reveal Ancestors' Burial Locations
Using Death Record Informants to Confirm Family Relationships
Massachusetts death records typically contain the following genealogical information:
- Full name of the deceased
- Place of death (specific address, whether residence or institution)
- Town or city of death and residence
- Date of death (day, month, and year)
- Age at death
- Birth date and place (not always accurate or known)
- Marital status and name of spouse
- Parents' names (not always filled in)
- Parents' birthplaces (not always known)
- Causes of death (primary, secondary, and contributing)
- Place and date of burial or cremation
- Name of funeral home or director
- Name of physician or medical examiner
- Name of informant (sometimes states relationship to the deceased)
Note: Older records (pre-1920s) typically have limited medical information on death certificates or registers.
Accuracy and Limitations of Vital Records
Important Considerations for Genealogical Research
When conducting genealogy research with vital records, bear these things in mind:
- The accuracy of information may diminish as the record moves further from its original event.
- For example, death certificates may have less precise birth information than the original birth certificate.
- Marriage certificates frequently contain valuable information about both spouses and their parents.
- Older records may include less detailed information than more recent ones.
How to Obtain Massachusetts Vital Records for Genealogy
To order transcribed vital records for genealogical purposes:
What Documentation is Needed for Massachusetts Vital Record Requests?
- Choose the type of record you need (birth, marriage, or death)
- Click on the appropriate link below to access our secure online order form
- Complete the application with as much information as you know
- Pay the required fee ($20 per record)
- Receive your transcribed record via email within 10-14 business days
Genealogical Birth Records
Detailed transcription of birth records for family history research containing all available genealogical information.
Order Genealogical Birth RecordGenealogical Marriage Records
Detailed transcription of marriage records for family history research with information on both parties and their parents.
Order Genealogical Marriage RecordGenealogical Death Records
Detailed transcription of death records for family history research containing all available biographical and family information.
Order Genealogical Death RecordFrequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Massachusetts vital records for genealogical research.
Locating 17th-Century Massachusetts Vital Records (1635-1700)
Massachusetts has recorded precise vital statistics since 1841. A few cities maintain records dating back to the 1600s, however coverage may vary. In 1841, statewide registration became required, although it took decades to reach full compliance.
How to Access Restricted Massachusetts Vital Records for Genealogy
What's the difference between an official vital record and a genealogical copy?
An official vital record is a state-certified document used for legal purposes, while a genealogical copy is a detailed transcription of the record used for family history research. Genealogical copies can sometimes provide more detailed information but are not valid for legal purposes.
How long will it take to receive my records?
The turnaround time is 10-14 business days once we receive your completed order form.
What information do I need to provide to get the most accurate record?
The more information you can provide (such as full name, date, and place of event), the easier it is to locate and transcribe the record.
How much do the records cost?
Each transcribed record costs $20. Payment is made online during the application process.
