Missouri Introduction

United States Gotoarrow.png Missouri Gotoarrow.png Introduction

This set of Wiki pages describes major sources of information about families from Missouri. As you read this outline, study the United States set of Wiki pages, which will help you understand terminology and the contents and uses of genealogical records.

Records of the FamilySearch Library

The FamilySearch Library has many of the records described in these Missouri Wiki pages. The major holdings include land, probate, and vital records from all but two of the county courthouses in the state.

Some of the sources described in this set of Wiki pages list the FamilySearch Library's book, microfilm, and microfiche. These are preceded by FHL, the abbreviation for FamilySearch Library. You can use these numbers to locate materials in the library .

FamilySearch Catalog

The library's records are listed in the FamilySearch Catalog found at the library and at each FamilySearch Center. The catalog is available in an online or microfiche version. To find a record, look in the Place Search of the catalog for:

  • The place where your ancestor lived, such as:
UNITED STATES - CENSUS
MISSOURI - MILITARY RECORDS
MISSOURI, JACKSON - LAND AND PROPERTY
MISSOURI, JACKSON, KANSAS CITY - CHURCH RECORDS

  • The record type you want to search, such as:
UNITED STATES - CENSUS
MISSOURI - MILITARY RECORDS
MISSOURI, JACKSON - LAND AND PROPERTY
MISSOURI, JACKSON, KANSAS CITY - CHURCH RECORDS

The page titles in the Missouri Wiki pages match the names of record types used in the catalog.