Hello - A question, for a friend, but the answer will probably help everyone else also -- If a person has searched the new NJ Archives marriage base and not found the needed marriage, should they write to the Archives requesting a search anyway? And if the marriage was not found, but strongly "supposed" to have been in NJ in 1853, what might be some reasons for it not being there?? Thank you -- Terri

Hello Terri, It is my understanding that the searchable database is not yet finished, so there is still the possibility that the state record may be found at the NJ State Archives. The county records may also be searched, and going by my own experience, the chance of success is greater at this level. However, the information included is usually limited to the names of the parties, the date and officiator. If you check the Archives web site, you will find directions for ordering the county records. The cost is nominal, so even if the record is not found, you can think of the fee as a donation to a very worthwhile cause. The staff is wonderful, and will be thorough in their effort to locate the record. No sloppy work or minimal efforts at this facility! Hope this helps, Helen