Digging Up the Dead: A Guide to Finding Old Texas Obituaries
So, you're on a quest to find out if Great Aunt Millie was really a rodeo champion before she settled down to knit socks. Or perhaps you're just curious about the life and times of your great-great-grandpa who mysteriously disappeared after the Dust Bowl. Whatever your reason, finding old Texas obituaries can be a fascinating, if sometimes morbid, journey.
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| How Do I Find Old Obituaries In Texas |
Let's Get Down to Business (Or, Rather, Death)
First things first: don't expect miracles. If your ancestor kicked the bucket in the early days of Texas, chances are, their obituary was written in crayon on a buffalo hide. Okay, maybe not that dramatic, but you get the idea. The further back you go, the slimmer your chances of finding a detailed obituary.
QuickTip: A short pause boosts comprehension.
Online Goldmines (or, at least, decent prospects)
The internet is a wonderful place. It's where cats learn to play the piano and conspiracy theories are born. But it can also be a treasure trove of genealogical information. Here are a few websites to check out:
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- GenealogyBank: This site is like a digital graveyard, packed with old newspapers. You might find a subscription fee worth it if you're serious about your obituary hunting.
- FamilySearch: Sponsored by the Mormons (who are weirdly into genealogy), this free site offers access to a vast database of records, including obituaries.
- Newspapers.com: Another paid option, but it provides access to millions of historical newspapers.
Local Libraries: The Unsung Heroes
Your friendly neighborhood library might be a goldmine of information. They often have microfilm or microfiche copies of old newspapers. Plus, librarians are trained professionals who can help you navigate the labyrinth of genealogical research.
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
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Historical Societies: Delving Deeper
If you're really serious about your obituary quest, consider contacting local historical societies. They might have unique collections or be able to point you in the right direction.
QuickTip: Skim the intro, then dive deeper.
Overcoming Obstacles
Finding old obituaries can be a frustrating process. People died with different names, moved around a lot, and sometimes, their deaths just weren't newsworthy. Don't get discouraged if you hit a dead end. Take a break, watch some cat videos, and come back to it later.
Remember: You're not just searching for a piece of paper; you're trying to connect with someone's life story. So, enjoy the journey, and who knows, you might discover a secret family talent for moonshine making or professional wrestling.
How To...
- How to find obituaries for free? Start with FamilySearch.org and your local library.
- How to search for obituaries by county? Many online databases allow you to filter by location.
- How to find obituaries from small towns? Check with the local historical society or library.
- How to read old handwriting in obituaries? Practice with other documents from the same time period.
- How to preserve old obituaries? Scan them and create digital copies.
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