This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/an/xFh.2ACEB/4554.1.1.1.1.1 Message Board Post: Actually, these records, are all referred to as Vital Records and they are a matter of public record. Which means that anyone, essentially, can access them. They are published in the newspaper around here (of course, so is Lucille's Tupperware party attendence & details, but that is another matter). Here, for instance, are the details on Wisconsin's records: Use the application form (a PDF file) and include all information listed below. Please enclose a self-addressed, stamped, business-sized envelope. You must also enclose the necessary fees (see below). Upon receipt in they're office, mailed requests are generally completed in 10-15 working days. Form: http://www.dhfs.state.wi.us/vitalrecords/pdf/BirthApp00.pdf In-person requests may be made at the Vital Records Office in Madison. It is located at the One West Wilson Street state office building, in Room 158. The office is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., Monday through Friday. Identification is required for all records that are picked up. You may wish to complete the application form (a PDF file) before you visit they're office. Requests made by 10:00 a.m. are usually ready by 12:00 noon; requests made by noon are usually ready by 2:00; requests made by 2:00 are usually ready by 4:00 p.m.; requests made at 4:00 are usually ready by 10:00 a.m. the next business day. Fax requests are also possible, using your credit card. Please complete the fax application form (a PDF file). http://www.dhfs.state.wi.us/vitalrecords/pdf/faxbirth00.pdf Fees: The fee for the first copy of any birth record is $12.00. Additional copies of the same record, ordered at the same time, are $2.00 each. Therefore, two copies of the same record would be $14.00. Please make check or money order payable to VITAL RECORDS. Information needed to request a copy of a birth record: The relationship between the person named on the record and the person making the request. Example: my own, my child's, etc. Only the person named on the record, the immediate family of that person or anyone with written permission from the person named on the record or the person's family may get a "certified" copy of a birth certificate. Note: A "non-certified" copy of a birth certificate is available to anyone who applies. The reason for needing the record; The full name listed on the birth record; The date of birth; The city and county of birth; The parent's names including mother's maiden name; Your signature As you can see, this request service form is made available on line at their website http://www.dhfs.state.wi.us/vitalrecords/ which is very helpful. Now, if you have any idea where they were married, start looking in that county's records or, with the state Department of Health or Vital Records, whatever they are called (it varies by state). Here's a link to what counties they have records for and from what time periods: http://www.dhfs.state.wi.us/vitalrecords/genereq.htm#G4 (you may have to copy and paste to get entire address correctly). Older records are cheaper and easier, only because, unless you want original copies for your records, many records are indexed and listed online. Here's another tip to help you gather the story - contact the library in the town they lived and had their children. You would be AMAZED what some communities put in the paper. From the Ladies Auxilliary Club meeting details to who's bundt cake recipe was the favorite at last Wednesday's soup supper. These are also indexed and on microfilm in most places. There are look-up angels and local volunteers (do a search on a genealogy OR adoption sites for volunteer contacts) who may be able to search a bit for you or at least tell you whether or not the name is listed in certain time frames. Some are not indexed, in that regard, pack provisions, because it is A LOT of sitting and scrolling through microfiche. Good luck to you, let me know if you need help. Sincerely, Rachael