Mississippi marriage records may be available to individuals searching for them. However, locating very old records can be a challenge. It some situations, it is best to gather this information from local sources including those locations that held the marriages themselves.
 
However, the state does have some information that can help individuals in their search for more information regarding the marriage, or divorce, of people within the state. This information can be very helpful in completing family research and genealogy projects. This information may also be available through other sources, including for the use of property verification, addresses and other personal reasons.
 

It is important to know that the state of Mississippi has not always required local facilities to gather information regarding vital statistics occurring in the state, though many local governments did so. The state did not begin requiring this information being held at a state level until November of 1912. At that time, only birth and death certificates were required to be maintained and sent to the state itself. Marriage records, on the other hand, did not become a requirement to report until 1926. There are some gaps in the information and record keeping here, though.
 

For example, marriage records from the period of 1926 through 1938 and then again from 1942 onwards is available at the location in most situations:

State Department of Health
 

Vital Records

2423 North State St

Jackson, Mississippi 39216
 

For those that are looking for information on marriages, this location is a good choice. However, the state does not maintain actual copies of marriage certificates itself. Rather, it provides a marriage index that could provide additional information. This index is organized by the name of the groom. This is available for most marriages prior to 1926. Newer records provide more detailed information at the state level.
 

If you need records that are older than this, you can find many Mississippi marriage records available at the local level. County and cities generally collect this information as it is reported by the citizens. The records are housed at the county level and most will be available for viewing and use at that location. If you find it difficult to find these records, you may wish to contact area churches and other religious organizations that may be present in the area from the time period you are searching for data on. Especially older weddings, most marriages took place in the religious facility. Local town halls may also provide some information.
 

The availability of Mississippi marriage records can be very limitedly available. If you are looking for information regarding the name of your family member or a maiden name, this is generally available in the complete records, rather than marriage indexes. The date, location and name of the couple are organized and often available. You may also learn about the names of the parents, information regarding the witnesses and even information on the location that the couple lived may be available on more detailed Mississippi marriage records available in the state.

 

• Mississippi Association for Marriage and Family Therapy

• Mississippi Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

• Mississippi Marriage Certificates & Records

• Mississippi Marriage License Laws