Andrea: I would write for a copy of the first Mrs. Bates death record: Vital Statistic Records The Massachusetts Archives holds vital statistics, records of births, deaths and marriages in Massachusetts, for the years 1841 to 1910. The Archives has index books for the records. Each index volume includes five years, and names are sorted alphabetically within each five-year period. The information found in vital records may include: Birth records Place and date of birth, name, residence, names, birthplaces, and occupations of parents. Marriage records Place and date of marriage, names, ages, residences, occupations, birthplaces, parents of bride and groom. Death records Place and date of death, residence, spouse, age, occupation and birthplace of deceased, cause of death and place of burial, name and birthplace of parents. **** Certified copies of births, marriages and deaths from 1841 to 1910 can be ordered in person or by mail. Please provide the name, date, and location for each event. A maximum of five certificates can be ordered at one time. Include a separate check, made out to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, for $3 for each certificate requested. See duplication services for additional information about copies. For vital records before 1841, original materials remain in the city or town clerk's office and can be found in the city or town hall. See the Massachusetts City and Town Directory for contact information. For more info - go to this website: http://www.state.ma.us/sec/arc/arccol/colidx.htm#vital Lucy