Unearthing the "I Do" Dirt: A Guide to Washington State Marriage Records (For the Determined Sleuth or the Nosy Neighbor)
So, you've got a hankering for some good ol' fashioned genealogy or maybe you're just itching to find out if Uncle Fred really did elope with that trapeze artist in the 70s (told you so!). Whatever your reason, you're on the hunt for marriage records in Washington state. But fear not, intrepid investigator, this guide will have you sifting through wedding bells (metaphorically speaking) in no time.
First Things First: The Time Traveling Telephone Booth is Out of Order
There are actually two timelines to consider when hunting down Washington weddings:
Before 1968: Back in the day, county auditors were the keepers of these secrets. So, grab your metaphorical fedora and head to the county where you suspect the lovebirds tied the knot.
After 1968: The Department of Health swooped in and became the official record keeper for marriages.
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| How Do I Find Marriage Records In Washington State |
Now, Let's Get Digital, Detective!
Tip: Pause if your attention drifts.
The beauty of modern times is that you might not even need to dust off your trench coat. Here are some resources to get you started on your virtual stakeout:
The Washington State Digital Archives: This treasure trove holds scanned copies of marriage records from many counties. Search by county to see if your target wedding is filed online.
County Websites: Many counties have put their marriage records online, so it's always worth checking their website directly. A quick search for "[county name] Washington marriage records" should do the trick.
FamilySearch: This free resource offers browsable collections of marriage records from various Washington counties.
But Wait, There's More!
For those extra-stubborn cases, here are some additional avenues to explore:
QuickTip: Slow scrolling helps comprehension.
Ancestry.com: They have a massive collection of marriage records (subscription required), but the good news is you can access it for free at a local FamilySearch center.
Microfilm: (cue dramatic music) Yes, for some counties, the records might only be available on microfilm. Don't worry, you don't need a decoder ring, just a trip to your local FamilySearch center where you can browse these dusty delights.
Frequently Asked Questions for the Determined Snoop:
How to find marriage records from the last 2 months?
Contact the county auditor's office where the marriage license was filed.
How to get a certified copy of a marriage record?
Tip: Reflect on what you just read.
The process varies depending on the date and county. Check the website of the Department of Health or the relevant county for details.
How to find marriage records for a different county?
Start with the county website or the Washington State Digital Archives. If that fails, contact the county auditor's office.
How to find marriage records before 1968?
Tip: Reading in short bursts can keep focus high.
The Washington State Archives or the county auditor's office might have them digitized or on microfilm.
How much does it cost to get a copy of a marriage record?
Fees vary depending on the method and location. Expect to pay a small fee for certified copies.
So there you have it, folks! With a little perseverance and this handy guide, you'll be a marriage record master in no time. Now, go forth and uncover those sweet (or maybe not-so-sweet) details of wedded bliss in Washington state!
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