Florida Church Records: Difference between revisions

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==Historical Background==
==Historical Background==
Before 1900 the largest religious groups in [[Florida, United States Genealogy|Florida]] were the [[Baptist Church in the United States|Baptist]], [[Methodist Church in the United States|Methodist-Episcopal]] (now United Methodist) and [[Roman Catholic Church in the United States|Roman Catholic]].<ref>Sydney E. Ahlstrom, ''A Religious History of the American People'' (New Haven, Conn.: Yale University Press, 1972). {{FSC|282712|item|disp=FS Library Book 973 K2ah}}.</ref>
==Information Found in the Records==
==Information Found in the Records==
To effectively use church records, become familiar with their content. Click on these links to learn about a specific record type:
To effectively use church records, become familiar with their content. Click on these links to learn about a specific record type:
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==Finding the Records==
==Finding the Records==
===Look for online records.===
===Look for online records.===
 
'''Ancestry.com, FindMyPast.com, and MyHeritage.com can be searched free of charge at your local [https://familysearch.org/locations/ family history center] or the [https://familysearch.org/wiki/en/Family_History_Library Family History Library] in Salt Lake City, Utah.
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#'''Stopping research''': Researchers might <span style="color:Red">'''assume the database proves church records do not exist'''</span>.  Actually the record is still out there, just not in this <span style="color:Red">'''incomplete'''</span> collection of records.  Keep searching!  
#'''Stopping research''': Researchers might <span style="color:Red">'''assume the database proves church records do not exist'''</span>.  Actually the record is still out there, just not in this <span style="color:Red">'''incomplete'''</span> collection of records.  Keep searching!  
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====FamilySearch====
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*'''1834-1997''' {{RecordSearch|2790244|Florida, Church Records, 1834-1997}}, Index and images — [[Florida Church Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]
*'''1880-1935''' {{RecordSearch|1674799|Florida, births and christenings, 1880-1935}}, index — [[Florida Births and Christenings - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]
*'''1900-1921''' {{RecordSearch|1674803|Florida, deaths and burials, 1900-1921}}, index — [[Florida Deaths and Burials - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]
*'''1837-1974''' {{RecordSearch|1674804|Florida, marriages, 1837-1974}}, index — [[Florida Marriages - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]


====Ancestry.com====
===Look for digital copies of church records listed in the FamilySearch Catalog. ===
=====Dutch Reformed=====
[[File:Family History Library.jpg|right|thumb|<center>'''Family History Library'''<br>'''Salt Lake City, Utah'''</center>]]
*'''1856-1970''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60766/ U.S., Selected States Dutch Reformed Church Membership Records, 1701-1995], index & images, incomplete.($)
*The [[Family History Library|Family History Library]] (FHL) has a substantial collection of original church records and transcripts on microfilm for churches in the United States.  
*'''1856-1970''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60524/ U.S., Dutch Christian Reformed Church Vital Records, 1856-1970], index & images, incomplete.($)
=====Lutheran=====
*'''1800-1947''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/61584/ U.S., Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Swedish American Church Records, 1800-1947], index & images, incomplete.($)
*'''1781-1969'''  [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60722/ U.S., Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Church Records, 1781-1969], index & images, incomplete.($)
=====Presbyterian=====
*'''1701-1970''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/61048/ U.S., Presbyterian Church Records, 1701-1970], index & images, incomplete.($)
====Catholic: Other Collections====
*[https://slavesocieties.org/index.php/node/592478 Archives of the Diocese of St. Augustine]
*[https://ufdc.ufl.edu/USACH00588/00001 Abstracts to the Colonial Parish Registers of St. Augustine, Baptisms 1594-1763 ]
 
===Look for digital copies of church records in the FamilySearch Catalog. ===
[[File:Family History Library.jpg|right|thumb|<center>'''FamilySearch Library'''<br>'''Salt Lake City, Utah'''</center>]]
*The [https://www.familysearch.org/en/library/ FamilySearch Library] (FS Library) has a substantial collection of original church records and transcripts on microfilm for churches in the United States.  
*Online church records can be listed in the FamilySearch Catalog under the state, county, or town.
*Online church records can be listed in the FamilySearch Catalog under the state, county, or town.
*If you find a record that has not yet been digitized, see [https://beta.familysearch.org/help/helpcenter/article/how-do-i-request-that-a-microfilm-be-digitized '''How do I request that a microfilm be digitized?''']
*If you find a record that has not yet been digitized, see [https://beta.familysearch.org/help/helpcenter/article/how-do-i-request-that-a-microfilm-be-digitized '''How do I request that a microfilm be digitized?''']
*Some records might have viewing restrictions, and can only be viewed at a [https://locations.familysearch.org/en/search '''FamilySearch Center'''] near you, and/or by members of supporting organizations.   
*Some records might have viewing restrictions, and can only be viewed at a [https://familysearch.org/locations/ '''Family History Center'''] near you, and/or by members of supporting organizations.   
*To find records:  
*To find records:  
:::a. Click on the [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/results?count=20&placeId=34&query=%2Bplace%3A%22United%20States%2C%20Florida%22 '''records of United States, Florida'''].
:::a. Click on the [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/results?count=20&placeId=356&query=%2Bplace%3A%22United%20States%2C%20Alabama%22 '''records of United States, STATE'''].
:::b. Click on '''Places within United States, Florida''' and a list of counties will appear.
:::b. Click on '''Places within United States, STATE''' and a list of counties will appear.
:::c. Click on your county if it appears.
:::c. Click on your county if it appears.
:::d. Click on the '''"Church records"''' topic. Click on the blue links to specific record titles.
:::d. Click on the '''"Church records"''' topic. Click on the blue links to specific record titles.
:::e. Click on '''Places within United States, Florida [COUNTY]''' and a list of towns will appear.
:::e. Click on '''Places within United States, STATE [COUNTY]''' and a list of towns will appear.
:::f. Click on your town if it appears, or the location which you believe was the parish which served your town or village.   
:::f. Click on your town if it appears, or the location which you believe was the parish which served your town or village.   
:::g. Click on the '''"Church records"''' topic. Click on the blue links to specific record titles.
:::g. Click on the '''"Church records"''' topic. Click on the blue links to specific record titles.
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'''These aids generally provide lists of records that are known to exist and information on their location.'''
'''These aids generally provide lists of records that are known to exist and information on their location.'''
*[http://www.floridamemory.com/collections/churchrecords/ WPA Church Records Inventory]
*[https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/587087-redirection ''A Preliminary List of Religious Bodies in Florida''.] Jacksonville, Florida: Historical Records Survey, 1939.
*{{FSC|138682|item|disp=''Guide to the Supplementary Vital Statistics from Church Records in Florida''}}. Three Volumes. Jacksonville, Florida: Historical Records Survey, 1942. {{FSC|138682|item}} book 975.9 V2h; film 1425703, item 6
====Baptist====
*'''1750-1899''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/62267/ U.S., Southern Baptist Church Records, 1750-1899] at Ancestry - index & images ($)
*{{FSC|139898|item|disp=''Inventory of the Church Archives of Florida: Baptist Bodies''.}} Jacksonville, Fla.: Historical Records Survey, 1939-1940
====Catholic====
*McAvoy, Thomas T. ''Guide to the Microfilm Edition of the Records of the Diocese of Louisiana and the Floridas, 1576-1803''. Notre Dame, Ind.: University of Notre Dame Archives, 1976. {{FSC|230025|item|disp=FS Library Book 973 K23m}}.
====Methodist====
*[https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/473801-redirection ''The History of Methodism in Georgia and Florida: From 1785 to 1865.''] Smith, George G.  Macon, Ga.: Jno. W. Burke and Company, 1877
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===Check the church records collections in archives and libraries.===
===Check the church records collections in archives and libraries.===
Some church records have been deposited for preservation in government archives or in libraries. Watch for links to '''digitized, online records''' offered by the archives. Some archives provide '''research services''' for a fee. For others, if you cannot visit in person, you might hire a researcher.
Some church records have been deposited for preservation in government archives or in libraries. Watch for links to '''digitized, online records''' offered by the archives. Some archives provide '''research services''' for a fee. For others, if you cannot visit in person, you might hire a [https://algensoc.org/main/researchers.html '''researcher.''']<br>
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===Correspond with genealogical or historical societies.===
Some church records have been given to historical societies. Also, historical societies may be able to tell you where the records are being held. To find a society near you, consult these lists:
*[http://www.daddezio.com/society/hill/index.html '''Society Hill List of STATE Societies''']<br>
 
==Carefully compare any record you find to known facts about the ancestor==
You will possibly find many different people with the '''same name as your ancestor,''' especially when a family stayed in a locality for several generations, and several children were named after the '''grandparents or aunts and uncles'''. Be prepared to find the correct church records by organizing in advance as many of these exact details about the ancestor '''as possible''':
*'''name''', including '''middle name and maiden name'''
*names of all '''spouses''', including middle and maiden name
*exact or closely estimated '''dates of birth, marriage, and death'''
*names and approximate birthdates of '''children'''
*all known places of '''residence'''
*'''occupations'''
*'''military''' service details
<br>
<br>


<span style="color:DarkViolet">'''Here you will find archive information unique to the state. Many more archives are kept by denomination. For denominational  archives, go to  [[United States Church Records#Searching for Church Records by Denomination|'''Searching for Church Records by Denomination.''']]</span>
[[File:Dark_thin_font_green_pin_Version_4.png|50px]]'''Carefully evaluate''' the church records you find to make sure you have really found records for your ancestor and not just a '''"near match"'''. If one or more of the details do not line up, be careful about accepting the entry as your ancestor. There are guiding principles for deciding how to resolve discrepancies between records that are seemingly close. For more instruction in evaluating evidence, read the Wiki article, [[Evaluate the Evidence|'''Evaluate the Evidence'''.]]
==== Baptist  ====
 
[http://www.floridabaptisthistory.org/ '''Florida Baptist Historical Society''']<br>5400 College Drive<br>Graceville, FL 32440<br>Phone: (800) 328-2660, x-480
== Online Resources ==
*[https://floridabaptisthistory.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Numbered-church-listing-First.pdf List of congregation histories]
*'''1834-1997''' - [{{RecordSearch|2790244|Florida, Church Records, 1834-1997}} - Index and images. Incomplete.
::The Florida Baptist Historical Society has secured and developed nearly 970 histories of active and deactivated congregations. The Church Histories Collection runs the gamut of published works to file folders with information gleaned from a variety of sources.
*[http://www.floridamemory.com/collections/churchrecords/ WPA Church Records]<br><br>
*[https://floridabaptisthistory.org/biography-collection/ The Florida Baptist Biography Collection]
*'''1880-1935''' - {{RecordSearch|1674799|Florida, births and christenings, 1880-1935}}, index. Incomplete.
::This collection contains biographical information and photographs of select Florida Baptist pastors and significant laity leaders. These files consist of information gleaned from actual biographical sketches prepared by the respective individual to information gleaned from back issues of the Florida Baptist Witness and other publications or documented sources. These biographical files, which number nearly 2,500 records, have become an invaluable source of information for use in historical research and to respond to inquiries from churches and individuals.
*'''1900-1921''' - {{RecordSearch|1674803|Florida, deaths and burials, 1900-1921}}, index. Incomplete.
*'''1837-1974''' - {{RecordSearch|1674804|Florida, marriages, 1837-1974}}, index. Incomplete.
{{Adoption FLGenWeb}}
 
 
 


====Lutheran====
[http://www.crumleyarchives.org '''James R. Crumley Jr. Archives''']<br>
4201 Main St.<br>
Columbia, SC 29203 <br>
<br>
Phone: 803-461-3234<br>
Email: crumleyarchivist@gmail.com<br>
*Archives hold records for '''closed churches.'''  '''For open churches write directly to [[Lutheran Church in the United States#Correspond with or visit the actual churches.|the local church.''']]


==== Methodist  ====
The [[Family History Library|Family History Library]] has a few original records of [[Florida, United States Genealogy|Florida]] churches and some materials that have been published by the DAR and others.
 
For more information about churches in [[Florida, United States Genealogy|Florida]], see:
 
*''A Preliminary List of Religious Bodies in Florida''. Jacksonville, Florida: Historical Records Survey, 1939. {{FHL|139880|item}} book 975.9 K2ha; film 1036590 item 6; fiche 6019561
*''Guide to the Supplementary Vital Statistics from Church Records in Florida''. Three Volumes. Jacksonville, Florida: Historical Records Survey, 1942. {{FHL|138682|item}} book 975.9 V2h; film 1425703, item 6
 
Some denominations have collected their records into central repositories. You can write to the following addresses to learn where their records are located:
 
=== Baptist  ===
 
[http://www.floridabaptisthistory.org/ Florida Baptist Historical Society]<br>5400 College Drive<br>Graceville, FL 32440<br>Phone: (800) 328-2660, x-480
 
[http://www.sbhla.org/info.htm Southern Baptist Historical Library and Archives]<br>The Southern Baptist Convention Building<br>901 Commerce St., #400<br>Nashville, TN 37203-3630<br>phone: (615) 244-0344
 
The [[Family History Library|Family History Library]] has microfilms of some of the minutes and membership lists from the Southern Baptist Historical Commission.
 
Many of the Baptist associations and their records are described in:
 
*[https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/139898?availability=Family%20History%20Library ''Inventory of the Church Archives of Florida: Baptist Bodies''.] Jacksonville, Fla.: Historical Records Survey, 1939-1940
 
=== The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons)  ===
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Early church records, for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, for Florida wards and branches can be found on film and are located at the Family History Library. The film numbers, for each ward, can be located through the [https://www.familysearch.org/#form=catalog FamilySearch Catalog].
 
Another way to find the film numbers is to refer to Jaussi, Laureen R., and Gloria D. Chaston. ''Register of Genealogical Society Call Numbers''. 2 vols. Provo, Utah: Genealogy Tree, 1982. {{FHL|129780|item|disp=FHL book 979.2258 A3j; fiche 6031507}}. These volumes contain the film numbers for many (but not all) membership and temple record films.
 
=== Methodist  ===
 
[https://www.flsouthern.edu/library/ Florida United Methodist Archives]<br>Roux Library - Florida Southern College<br>111 Lake Hollingsworth Drive<br>P.O. Box 3767 <br>Lakeland, FL 33801-5698<br>Phone: (863) 680-4164<br>
 
[https://www.drew.edu/library/special-collections-archives/umahc/ United Methodist Archives Center]<br>Drew University<br>36 Madison Avenue<br>Madison NJ 07940<br>Phone: (973) 408-3000
 
For&nbsp;a history of the Methodist Church in Florida, see:
 
*Smith, George G. ''The History of Methodism in Georgia and Florida: From 1785 to 1865.'' Macon, Ga.: Jno. W. Burke and Company, 1877; {{FHL|285475|item}} book 975 K2s; fiche 6048432


[https://www.flsouthern.edu/library/ '''Florida United Methodist Archives''']<br>Roux Library - Florida Southern College<br>111 Lake Hollingsworth Drive<br>P.O. Box 3767 <br>Lakeland, FL 33801-5698<br>Phone: (863) 680-4164<br>
=== Roman Catholic  ===


==== Roman Catholic  ====
'''-''' [http://www.miamiarch.org/ Archdiocese of Miami]  
*'''1576-1803''' [http://archives.nd.edu/mano/ '''Diocese of Louisiana and the Floridas 1576-1803 Searchable Database''']
**Letters and other records (1576–1803) of this Roman Catholic jurisdiction before the purchase of Louisiana by the United States. Items include a 1793 dossier containing royal instructions regarding marriages between Protestants and between Protestants and Catholics, a 1795 copy of Governor Carondelet’s report to Spain giving an account of parishes in Louisiana, parish census reports, and dossiers pertaining to the disposal of slaves by the Ursulines.
**McAvoy, Thomas T. ''Guide to the Microfilm Edition of the Records of the Diocese of Louisiana and the Floridas, 1576-1803''. Notre Dame, Ind.: University of Notre Dame Archives, 1976. {{FSC|230025|item|disp=FS Library Book 973 K23m}}.
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<span style="color:DarkViolet">'''Most records are maintained in the local parishes, not the diocese archives.'''</span>
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[http://www.miamiarch.org/ '''Archdiocese of Miami''']  


9401 Biscayne Boulevard<br>Miami Shores, FL 33138<br>Telephone: (305) 757-6241<br>Fax: (305) 754-1797  
9401 Biscayne Boulevard<br>Miami Shores, FL 33138<br>Telephone: (305) 757-6241<br>Fax: (305) 754-1797  
*Records are maintained in the local parishes, not the diocese archives. Click on "Parishes" in the top menu bar.<br>
 
The Archdiocese includes the counties of: [[Broward County, Florida Genealogy|Broward]], [[Miami-Dade County, Florida Genealogy|Miami-Dade]] and [[Monroe County, Florida Genealogy|Monroe]].<ref name="rome">[http://www.cdeducation.org/oym/connections/dioceseusmap.htm Map of the Roman Catholic Dioceses in the United States of America], Office of Catholic Schools Diocese of Columbus, accessed 3 Nov 2010.</ref>  
The Archdiocese includes the counties of: [[Broward County, Florida Genealogy|Broward]], [[Miami-Dade County, Florida Genealogy|Miami-Dade]] and [[Monroe County, Florida Genealogy|Monroe]].<ref name="rome">[http://www.cdeducation.org/oym/connections/dioceseusmap.htm Map of the Roman Catholic Dioceses in the United States of America], Office of Catholic Schools Diocese of Columbus, accessed 3 Nov 2010.</ref>  
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[https://www.orlandodiocese.org/ministries-offices/archives-welcome/ '''Diocese of Orlando Archives''']  
'''-'''[https://www.orlandodiocese.org/ministries-offices/archives-welcome/ Diocese of Orlando]  


Mailing Address:<br>P.O. Box 1800<br>Orlando, Florida 32802-1800  
Mailing Address:<br>P.O. Box 1800<br>Orlando, Florida 32802-1800  
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Physical Address:<br>50 East Robinson<br>Orlando, Florida 32801  
Physical Address:<br>50 East Robinson<br>Orlando, Florida 32801  


Telephone: 407-246-4800 <br>Fax: 407-246-4942 <br>Email: cbrinati@orlandodiocese.org  
Telephone: 407-246-4800 <br>Fax: 407-246-4942 <br>E-mail: cbrinati@orlandodiocese.org  
*Records are maintained in [https://www.orlandodiocese.org/parishes/find-a-parish/ '''the local parishes,'''] not the diocese archives.<br>
 
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Brevard County, Florida Genealogy|Brevard]], [[Lake County, Florida Genealogy|Lake]], [[Marion County, Florida Genealogy|Marion]], [[Orange County, Florida Genealogy|Orange]], [[Osceola County, Florida Genealogy|Osceola]], [[Polk County, Florida Genealogy|Polk]], [[Seminole County, Florida Genealogy|Seminole]], [[Sumter County, Florida Genealogy|Sumter]] and [[Volusia County, Florida Genealogy|Volusia]].<ref name="rome" />  
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Brevard County, Florida Genealogy|Brevard]], [[Lake County, Florida Genealogy|Lake]], [[Marion County, Florida Genealogy|Marion]], [[Orange County, Florida Genealogy|Orange]], [[Osceola County, Florida Genealogy|Osceola]], [[Polk County, Florida Genealogy|Polk]], [[Seminole County, Florida Genealogy|Seminole]], [[Sumter County, Florida Genealogy|Sumter]] and [[Volusia County, Florida Genealogy|Volusia]].<ref name="rome" />  
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[http://www.diocesepb.org/administration/archives.htm '''Diocese of Palm Beach''']  
'''-'''[http://www.diocesepb.org/administration/archives.htm Diocese of Palm Beach]  


9995 N. Military Trail<br>Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410<br>Phone: (561) 775-9500  
9995 N. Military Trail<br>Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410<br>Phone: (561) 775-9500  
*Records are maintained in [https://www.diocesepb.org/locations '''the local parishes'''], not the diocese archives.<br>
 
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Indian River County, Florida Genealogy|Indian River]] , [[Martin County, Florida Genealogy|Martin]] , [[Okeechobee County, Florida Genealogy|Okeechobee]] , [[Palm Beach County, Florida Genealogy|Palm Beach]] and [[St. Lucie County, Florida Genealogy|St. Lucie]] . <ref name="rome" />  
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Indian River County, Florida Genealogy|Indian River]] , [[Martin County, Florida Genealogy|Martin]] , [[Okeechobee County, Florida Genealogy|Okeechobee]] , [[Palm Beach County, Florida Genealogy|Palm Beach]] and [[St. Lucie County, Florida Genealogy|St. Lucie]] . <ref name="rome" />  
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[https://ptdiocese.org/chancellor '''Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee, Office of the Chancellor''']  
'''-'''[http://www.ptdiocese.org/ Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee]  


11 North B St.<br>Pensacola, FL 32502<br>Phone: (850) 435-3500  
11 North B St.<br>Pensacola, FL 32502<br>Phone: (850) 435-3500  
*Records are maintained in [https://ptdiocese.org/parishes '''the local parishes,'''] not the diocese archives.<br>
 
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Bay County, Florida Genealogy|Bay]], [[Calhoun County, Florida Genealogy|Calhoun]], [[Escambia County, Florida Genealogy|Escambia]], [[Franklin County, Florida Genealogy|Franklin]], [[Gadsden County, Florida Genealogy|Gadsden]], [[Gulf County, Florida Genealogy|Gulf]], [[Holmes County, Florida Genealogy|Holmes]], [[Jackson County, Florida Genealogy|Jackson]], [[Jefferson County, Florida Genealogy|Jefferson]], [[Leon County, Florida Genealogy|Leon]], [[Liberty County, Florida Genealogy|Liberty]], [[Madison County, Florida Genealogy|Madison]], [[Okaloosa County, Florida Genealogy|Okaloosa]], [[Santa Rosa County, Florida Genealogy|Santa Rosa]], [[Taylor County, Florida Genealogy|Taylor]], [[Wakulla County, Florida Genealogy|Wakulla]], [[Walton County, Florida Genealogy|Walton]] and [[Washington County, Florida Genealogy|Washington]].<ref name="rome" />  
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Bay County, Florida Genealogy|Bay]], [[Calhoun County, Florida Genealogy|Calhoun]], [[Escambia County, Florida Genealogy|Escambia]], [[Franklin County, Florida Genealogy|Franklin]], [[Gadsden County, Florida Genealogy|Gadsden]], [[Gulf County, Florida Genealogy|Gulf]], [[Holmes County, Florida Genealogy|Holmes]], [[Jackson County, Florida Genealogy|Jackson]], [[Jefferson County, Florida Genealogy|Jefferson]], [[Leon County, Florida Genealogy|Leon]], [[Liberty County, Florida Genealogy|Liberty]], [[Madison County, Florida Genealogy|Madison]], [[Okaloosa County, Florida Genealogy|Okaloosa]], [[Santa Rosa County, Florida Genealogy|Santa Rosa]], [[Taylor County, Florida Genealogy|Taylor]], [[Wakulla County, Florida Genealogy|Wakulla]], [[Walton County, Florida Genealogy|Walton]] and [[Washington County, Florida Genealogy|Washington]].<ref name="rome" />  
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[https://essss.library.vanderbilt.edu/islandora/object/essss%3A246118 '''Diocese of St. Augustine Archives''']  
'''-'''[https://essss.library.vanderbilt.edu/islandora/object/essss%3A246118 Diocese of St. Augustine Archives]  


P.O. Box 3506<br>St. Augustine, FL 32085<br>Phone: (904) 823-8707 or (904) 806-2131  
P.O. Box 3506<br>St. Augustine, FL 32085<br>Phone: (904) 823-8707 or (904) 806-2131  
*[https://essss.library.vanderbilt.edu/islandora/object/essss%3A246118 '''Digitized records of Archives of the Diocese of St. Augustine''']
*Some records are maintained in [https://www.dosafl.com/parishes/ '''the local parishes.''']
*The [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/results?count=20&query=%2Bsubject_id%3A351887 FamilySearch Library] has digitized records for the years 1594 to 1924 from the main '''Cathedral in St. Augustine''', indexes, and various transcripts.


The diocese includes the counties of: [[Alachua County, Florida Genealogy|Alachua]], [[Baker County, Florida Genealogy|Baker]], [[Bradford County, Florida Genealogy|Bradford]], [[Clay County, Florida Genealogy|Clay]], [[Columbia County, Florida Genealogy|Columbia]], [[Dixie County, Florida Genealogy|Dixie]], [[Duval County, Florida Genealogy|Duval]], [[Flagler County, Florida Genealogy|Flagler]], [[Gilchrist County, Florida Genealogy|Gilchrist]], [[Hamilton County, Florida Genealogy|Hamilton]], [[Lafayette County, Florida Genealogy|Lafayette]], [[Levy County, Florida Genealogy|Levy]], [[Nassau County, Florida Genealogy|Nassau]], [[Putnam County, Florida Genealogy|Putnam]], [[St. Johns County, Florida Genealogy|St. Johns]], [[Suwannee County, Florida Genealogy|Suwannee]] and [[Union County, Florida Genealogy|Union]].<ref name="rome" />  
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Alachua County, Florida Genealogy|Alachua]], [[Baker County, Florida Genealogy|Baker]], [[Bradford County, Florida Genealogy|Bradford]], [[Clay County, Florida Genealogy|Clay]], [[Columbia County, Florida Genealogy|Columbia]], [[Dixie County, Florida Genealogy|Dixie]], [[Duval County, Florida Genealogy|Duval]], [[Flagler County, Florida Genealogy|Flagler]], [[Gilchrist County, Florida Genealogy|Gilchrist]], [[Hamilton County, Florida Genealogy|Hamilton]], [[Lafayette County, Florida Genealogy|Lafayette]], [[Levy County, Florida Genealogy|Levy]], [[Nassau County, Florida Genealogy|Nassau]], [[Putnam County, Florida Genealogy|Putnam]], [[St. Johns County, Florida Genealogy|St. Johns]], [[Suwannee County, Florida Genealogy|Suwannee]] and [[Union County, Florida Genealogy|Union]].<ref name="rome" />  
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[https://www.dosp.org/chancellor/office-of-archives-and-records/ '''Diocese of St. Petersburg''']  
'''-'''[https://www.dosp.org/chancellor/office-of-archives-and-records/ Diocese of St. Petersburg]  


6363 9th Ave. N<br>St. Petersburg, FL 33710<br>Phone: (727) 344-1611  
6363 9th Ave. N<br>St. Petersburg, FL 33710<br>Phone: (727) 344-1611  
*Records are maintained in [https://www.dosp.org/parishes/ '''the local parishes,'''] not the diocese archives.<br>
 
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Citrus County, Florida Genealogy|Citrus]], [[Hernando County, Florida Genealogy|Hernondo]], [[Hillsborough County, Florida Genealogy|Hillsborough]], [[Pasco County, Florida Genealogy|Pasco]] and [[Pinellas County, Florida Genealogy|Pinellas]].<ref name="rome" />  
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Citrus County, Florida Genealogy|Citrus]], [[Hernando County, Florida Genealogy|Hernondo]], [[Hillsborough County, Florida Genealogy|Hillsborough]], [[Pasco County, Florida Genealogy|Pasco]] and [[Pinellas County, Florida Genealogy|Pinellas]].<ref name="rome" />  
----
[https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/archives/ '''Diocese of Venice''']<br>1000 Pinebrook Road<br>Venice, FL 34285<br>Phone: (941) 484-9543
*Records are maintained in [https://dioceseofvenice.org/find-a-parish/ '''the local parishes,'''] not the diocese archives.
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Charlotte County, Florida Genealogy|Charlotte]], [[Collier County, Florida Genealogy|Collier]], [[DeSoto County, Florida Genealogy|DeSoto]], [[Glades County, Florida Genealogy|Glades]], [[Hardee County, Florida Genealogy|Hardee]], [[Hendry County, Florida Genealogy|Hendry]], [[Highlands County, Florida Genealogy|Highlands]], [[Lee County, Florida Genealogy|Lee]], [[Manatee County, Florida Genealogy|Manatee]] and [[Sarasota County, Florida Genealogy|Sarasota]].<ref name="rome" />


===Correspond with genealogical or historical societies.===
'''-'''[https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/archives/ Diocese of Venice]<br>1000 Pinebrook Road<br>Venice, FL 34285<br>Phone: (941) 484-9543
Some church records have been given to historical societies. Also, historical societies may be able to tell you where the records are being held.
 
==Next, go to the Wiki article for your ancestors' denomination. ==
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Charlotte County, Florida Genealogy|Charlotte]], [[Collier County, Florida Genealogy|Collier]], [[DeSoto County, Florida Genealogy|DeSoto]], [[Glades County, Florida Genealogy|Glades]], [[Hardee County, Florida Genealogy|Hardee]], [[Hendry County, Florida Genealogy|Hendry]], [[Highlands County, Florida Genealogy|Highlands]], [[Lee County, Florida Genealogy|Lee]], [[Manatee County, Florida Genealogy|Manatee]] and [[Sarasota County, Florida Genealogy|Sarasota]].<ref name="rome" />
There are frequently additional, nationwide or regional archives and online collections for each denomination.  Find the article for your ancestors' denomination and follow the instructions there to access these sources.
 
{{Template:US-church-sidebar}}
*The [[Family History Library|Family History Library]] has 14 microfilms of records for the years 1594 to 1924 from the main cathedral in St. Augustine.
<br>


==Carefully compare any record you find to known facts about the ancestor==
Other early records are described in:  
You will possibly find many different people with the '''same name as your ancestor,''' especially when a family stayed in a locality for several generations, and several children were named after the '''grandparents or aunts and uncles'''. Be prepared to find the correct church records by organizing in advance as many of these exact details about the ancestor '''as possible''':
*'''name''', including '''middle name and maiden name'''
*names of all '''spouses''', including middle and maiden name
*exact or closely estimated '''dates of birth, marriage, and death'''
*names and approximate birthdates of '''children'''
*all known places of '''residence'''
*'''occupations'''
*'''military''' service details
<br>


[[File:Dark_thin_font_green_pin_Version_4.png|50px]]'''Carefully evaluate''' the church records you find to make sure you have really found records for your ancestor and not just a '''"near match"'''. If one or more of the details do not line up, be careful about accepting the entry as your ancestor. There are guiding principles for deciding how to resolve discrepancies between records that are seemingly close. For more instruction in evaluating evidence, read the Wiki article, [[Evaluate the Evidence|'''Evaluate the Evidence'''.]]
*McAvoy, Thomas T. ''Guide to the Microfilm Edition of the Records of the Diocese of Louisiana and the Floridas, 1576-1803''. Notre Dame, Ind.: University of Notre Dame Archives, 1976. {{FHL|230025|item|disp=FHL Book 973 K23m}}.


'''Wiki articles describing online collections are found at:'''


*[[Florida Births and Christenings - FamilySearch Historical Records]]
*[[Florida Deaths and Burials - FamilySearch Historical Records]]
*[[Florida Marriages - FamilySearch Historical Records]]


== References  ==
== References  ==

Revision as of 18:31, 29 June 2020

Florida Wiki Topics
Florida flag.png
Beginning Research
Record Types
Florida Background
Cultural Groups
Local Research Resources

Historical Background[edit | edit source]

Information Found in the Records[edit | edit source]

To effectively use church records, become familiar with their content. Click on these links to learn about a specific record type:

Finding the Records[edit | edit source]

Look for online records.[edit | edit source]

Ancestry.com, FindMyPast.com, and MyHeritage.com can be searched free of charge at your local family history center or the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Caution sign.png

Online databases are incomplete. This can lead to two common errors:

  1. Near matches: Researchers might mistakenly accept an entry very similar to their ancestor, thinking it is the only one available. Only use information that matches your ancestor in date, place, relationships, and other details.
  2. Stopping research: Researchers might assume the database proves church records do not exist. Actually the record is still out there, just not in this incomplete collection of records. Keep searching!

Look for digital copies of church records listed in the FamilySearch Catalog.[edit | edit source]

Family History Library
Salt Lake City, Utah
  • The Family History Library (FHL) has a substantial collection of original church records and transcripts on microfilm for churches in the United States.
  • Online church records can be listed in the FamilySearch Catalog under the state, county, or town.
  • If you find a record that has not yet been digitized, see How do I request that a microfilm be digitized?
  • Some records might have viewing restrictions, and can only be viewed at a Family History Center near you, and/or by members of supporting organizations.
  • To find records:
a. Click on the records of United States, STATE.
b. Click on Places within United States, STATE and a list of counties will appear.
c. Click on your county if it appears.
d. Click on the "Church records" topic. Click on the blue links to specific record titles.
e. Click on Places within United States, STATE [COUNTY] and a list of towns will appear.
f. Click on your town if it appears, or the location which you believe was the parish which served your town or village.
g. Click on the "Church records" topic. Click on the blue links to specific record titles.
h. Some combination of these icons will appear at the far right of the listing for the record. FHL icons.png. The magnifying glass indicates that the record is indexed. Clicking on the magnifying glass will take you to the index. Clicking on the camera will take you to an online digital copy of the records.

Consult available finding aids.[edit | edit source]

These aids generally provide lists of records that are known to exist and information on their location.

Correspond with or visit the actual churches.[edit | edit source]

Some records are still held in the local churches. Contact the current minister to find out what records are still available.

  • Make an appointment to look at the records. Or ask the minister of the church to make a copy of the record for you.
  • To find church staff available, you might have to visit on Sunday.
  • Ask for small searches at a time, such as one birth record or a specific marriage. Never ask for "everything on a family or surname".
  • A donation ($25-$40) for their time and effort to help you would be appropriate.
  • If the church has a website, you may be able to e-mail a message.
  • See the Letter Writing Guide for Genealogy for help with composing letters.
  • Each denomination page offers an online address directory of local churches for that denomination.

Check the church records collections in archives and libraries.[edit | edit source]

Some church records have been deposited for preservation in government archives or in libraries. Watch for links to digitized, online records offered by the archives. Some archives provide research services for a fee. For others, if you cannot visit in person, you might hire a researcher.

Correspond with genealogical or historical societies.[edit | edit source]

Some church records have been given to historical societies. Also, historical societies may be able to tell you where the records are being held. To find a society near you, consult these lists:

Carefully compare any record you find to known facts about the ancestor[edit | edit source]

You will possibly find many different people with the same name as your ancestor, especially when a family stayed in a locality for several generations, and several children were named after the grandparents or aunts and uncles. Be prepared to find the correct church records by organizing in advance as many of these exact details about the ancestor as possible:

  • name, including middle name and maiden name
  • names of all spouses, including middle and maiden name
  • exact or closely estimated dates of birth, marriage, and death
  • names and approximate birthdates of children
  • all known places of residence
  • occupations
  • military service details


Dark thin font green pin Version 4.pngCarefully evaluate the church records you find to make sure you have really found records for your ancestor and not just a "near match". If one or more of the details do not line up, be careful about accepting the entry as your ancestor. There are guiding principles for deciding how to resolve discrepancies between records that are seemingly close. For more instruction in evaluating evidence, read the Wiki article, Evaluate the Evidence.

Online Resources[edit | edit source]

Template:Adoption FLGenWeb



The Family History Library has a few original records of Florida churches and some materials that have been published by the DAR and others.

For more information about churches in Florida, see:

  • A Preliminary List of Religious Bodies in Florida. Jacksonville, Florida: Historical Records Survey, 1939. FHL Collection book 975.9 K2ha; film 1036590 item 6; fiche 6019561
  • Guide to the Supplementary Vital Statistics from Church Records in Florida. Three Volumes. Jacksonville, Florida: Historical Records Survey, 1942. FHL Collection book 975.9 V2h; film 1425703, item 6

Some denominations have collected their records into central repositories. You can write to the following addresses to learn where their records are located:

Baptist[edit | edit source]

Florida Baptist Historical Society
5400 College Drive
Graceville, FL 32440
Phone: (800) 328-2660, x-480

Southern Baptist Historical Library and Archives
The Southern Baptist Convention Building
901 Commerce St., #400
Nashville, TN 37203-3630
phone: (615) 244-0344

The Family History Library has microfilms of some of the minutes and membership lists from the Southern Baptist Historical Commission.

Many of the Baptist associations and their records are described in:

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons)[edit | edit source]

Green check.png
The usage of "Mormon" and "LDS" on this page is approved according to current policy.


Early church records, for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, for Florida wards and branches can be found on film and are located at the Family History Library. The film numbers, for each ward, can be located through the FamilySearch Catalog.

Another way to find the film numbers is to refer to Jaussi, Laureen R., and Gloria D. Chaston. Register of Genealogical Society Call Numbers. 2 vols. Provo, Utah: Genealogy Tree, 1982. FHL book 979.2258 A3j; fiche 6031507. These volumes contain the film numbers for many (but not all) membership and temple record films.

Methodist[edit | edit source]

Florida United Methodist Archives
Roux Library - Florida Southern College
111 Lake Hollingsworth Drive
P.O. Box 3767
Lakeland, FL 33801-5698
Phone: (863) 680-4164

United Methodist Archives Center
Drew University
36 Madison Avenue
Madison NJ 07940
Phone: (973) 408-3000

For a history of the Methodist Church in Florida, see:

  • Smith, George G. The History of Methodism in Georgia and Florida: From 1785 to 1865. Macon, Ga.: Jno. W. Burke and Company, 1877; FHL Collection book 975 K2s; fiche 6048432

Roman Catholic[edit | edit source]

- Archdiocese of Miami

9401 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami Shores, FL 33138
Telephone: (305) 757-6241
Fax: (305) 754-1797

The Archdiocese includes the counties of: Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe.[1]

-Diocese of Orlando

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 1800
Orlando, Florida 32802-1800

Physical Address:
50 East Robinson
Orlando, Florida 32801

Telephone: 407-246-4800
Fax: 407-246-4942
E-mail: cbrinati@orlandodiocese.org

The diocese includes the counties of: Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole, Sumter and Volusia.[1]

-Diocese of Palm Beach

9995 N. Military Trail
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
Phone: (561) 775-9500

The diocese includes the counties of: Indian River , Martin , Okeechobee , Palm Beach and St. Lucie . [1]

-Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee

11 North B St.
Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: (850) 435-3500

The diocese includes the counties of: Bay, Calhoun, Escambia, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Taylor, Wakulla, Walton and Washington.[1]

-Diocese of St. Augustine Archives

P.O. Box 3506
St. Augustine, FL 32085
Phone: (904) 823-8707 or (904) 806-2131

The diocese includes the counties of: Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Nassau, Putnam, St. Johns, Suwannee and Union.[1]

-Diocese of St. Petersburg

6363 9th Ave. N
St. Petersburg, FL 33710
Phone: (727) 344-1611

The diocese includes the counties of: Citrus, Hernondo, Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas.[1]

-Diocese of Venice
1000 Pinebrook Road
Venice, FL 34285
Phone: (941) 484-9543

The diocese includes the counties of: Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Lee, Manatee and Sarasota.[1]

  • The Family History Library has 14 microfilms of records for the years 1594 to 1924 from the main cathedral in St. Augustine.

Other early records are described in:

  • McAvoy, Thomas T. Guide to the Microfilm Edition of the Records of the Diocese of Louisiana and the Floridas, 1576-1803. Notre Dame, Ind.: University of Notre Dame Archives, 1976. FHL Book 973 K23m.

Wiki articles describing online collections are found at:

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 Map of the Roman Catholic Dioceses in the United States of America, Office of Catholic Schools Diocese of Columbus, accessed 3 Nov 2010.
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