As you create Oregon genealogy records for your family, keep in mind that the state did not always collect information to make this process easy. As you work to piece together your family's history, it is a good idea to locate as many birth certificates, death records, marriage and divorce records and property documentation to help you. These resources can help you by providing you with a map of sorts. You can learn about family members you did not know about and connect your family to all sorts of events. It can be an exciting process but to make it happen, you will need to have more than a few resources.
 

To create Oregon genealogy records, you will want to use the state databases to help you. The government began requiring the collection of all birth and death records starting in 1903. It would then require all marriages to be documented at the state level by 1906. These records can be searched for you if you make a request. You can visit in person or write to the agency at the following address.
 

Oregon Center for Health Statistics, Vital Records

800 NE Oregon Street, Suite 205

PO Box 14050

Portland, Oregon 97293
 

It is possible for you to place an order for a records search or certificate over the phone. You can do this by calling the following number: 503 731-4095

If you need records that are older than 1903, the search is a lot more localized. You will want to turn to the counties in the state for most of this information. Prior to establishment of the counties, though, you will need to gather information from township clerks. Most towns in Oregon did record this information, but because there was no law requiring it, some information is quite hard to find because it may not have been recorded at all.
 

Nevertheless, there are other resources to help you with your Oregon genealogy records search. For example, you may want to turn to any one of the older cemeteries in the area for information. Some of these resources will have the names of the person buried on site, as well as their birth date, next of kin and their family's name. Some of the best options include Auburn Cemetery in Baker County, Granite Cemetery in Granite, Haines Cemetery in Baker County and the Pine Haven Cemetery in Halfway. These may provide you with only basic information or full information – there is no harm in looking.
 

Other ways to find Oregon genealogy records include the use of various military records including those from the War with the Snake, Bannock and Pauite tribes. You may also want to look for information from the draft registrations that occurred during the World Wars. You may also want to check the local churches that often have some excellent family records you can use. Any of these resources can help you to solve your problems, but it will take you some time to find it. With a thorough search, you may be able to answer all of your questions.

 

• Oregon Genealogy

• Oregon State Archives