Montana marriage records are often sought after by those who need to complete a family tree or for those who are looking for information related to property ownership. Though these marriage records can answer some important questions, gathering them can prove to be a challenge in some cases. For those who are looking for marriage records from the early founding of the state, it is important to search as local as possible. However, for anyone who needs additional marriage records, there are a variety of sources to gathering that information.
 

The state began requiring the collection of vital records in 1907 at the state level. At that time, all births and deaths were to be reported to the state itself. However, the mandatory requirement to report this information did not occur for another eight years. During that time, there are many gaps in the information that is available. It is estimated that by 1922 about 90 percent of all births and deaths in the state were being reported to the state. Marriage records are available in an index format only. The state does not maintain any type of actual marriage certificate record, just a recording of the information for most marriages earlier than this time.
 

For those who are looking for all managers that occurred and were registered with the state of Montana from 1907 on, the best source for this information is the Department of Health. This information is available at the following address:
 

Department of Public Health and Human Services

111 North Sanders

PO Box 4210

Helena, Montana 59604
 

For those who are searching for information from prior to this time, it is best to look at the local level. Montana marriage records are often first created at the local level, in the county clerk's offices. This information, as well as town hall information, can prove to be the most complete.
 
Even if someone did not register with the state, it is likely that the marriage record is available through the county or town hall clerk. This information can date back to the 1800s. However, like most records in the state from this time range, most information is incomplete, meaning that not all marriages were recorded at that time in a legal, formal way.
 

In addition to this, Montana marriage records are also available at the level of churches and religious organizations. If the person was married in a church, this may be one of the best sources for information regarding that marriage. Information will differ from one location to the next, though.
 

Montana marriage records at the state level are only an index in most cases. However, for those who are able to find more local information, the amount of information contained on the marriage record can be more thorough.

This information may include the name of the couple, the parents' information, the address provided and the name of the official who conducted the wedding, including witnesses. These marriage records may contain additional information in many cases as well.

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• Montana State Marriage Counseling