Hi Deb, The IRAD (Illinois Regional Archives Depository) at Illinois State University has an early birth index (1877-1901), as well as a birth records (1877-1903) for Vermilion County. Not all births that early were not recorded, since they weren't required yet, but I would check with them to see if your Grandmother might be in their records. The cost is very minimal, I believe it is $1.00 or so per copy when you send a SASE. Their address is: Illinois Regional Archives Depository Williams Hall Illinois State University Campus Box 5500 Normal, IL 61790-5500 Telephone: (309) 452-6027 Hope this helps!! Teri