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Genealogy

Resources

Ancestry Library Edition (in-library use only)

Access more than 4,000 databases and 1.5 billion names. Includes digitized images of the U.S. Federal Census from 1790 forward, vital, church, court, and immigration records, as well as record collections from Canada and other areas.

Arkiv Digital (in-library use only)

The largest private provider of Swedish church records and other historical records online. Includes church records, court records and inventory of estates. Access it from the Other Programs folder on the desktop of the public computers at the library.

Chicago Tribune Historical Archive

Contains 2.5 million obituaries and death notices, front pages from 1900 through 1984, and selected articles from the newspaper’s clipping files. Paid ads are excluded.

Fold3

History and genealogy archives featuring original documents and photographs, including military records, city directories, and naturalization records.

HeritageHub

From Newsbank – Explore your family history with the premier collection of U.S. obituaries and death notices for in-depth genealogical research from 1704 – today. Includes deep coverage from all 50 states, hard-to-find content from the mid 1900’s, and original obituary images.

HeritageQuest

Online database of over 25,000 books, the U.S. Census (1790-1930), and many other collections created for professional and amateur genealogists. Users can find information on their ancestors as well as information on American culture.

 

Newspapers.com

An extensive database that provides online access to 4,000+ historical newspapers dating from the early 1700s into the 2000s. Contains full runs and portions of runs of well-known, regional and state titles to small local newspapers.

Where to write for Vital Records

Adoption

Illinois Vital Records

Obituaries and Cemeteries

If you still can’t locate an obituary, try writing to a local library or historical society near your ancestor’s final home, or contact the cemetery where your ancestor was buried (sextons may keep copy of obituary).

Passenger Lists

Naturalization

National Archives Naturalization Records: Early naturalization records were filed in the counties of the states. In 1907, the process went national and records were kept at the federal level.

Libraries

Local Genealogy Societies

National Societies

Family History Centers

Archives


Genealogy Appointments

Digging your roots? We can help you get started or further your research. Call 847-362-2330 X1144, to set up an appointment with one of our genealogy specialists.

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