Decatur County, Iowa Genealogy: Difference between revisions

From FamilySearch Wiki
VisualWikitext
m (→‎Birth: Added births database)
m (Text replacement - "(\|disp=FHL)([\s_])[\s_]*" to "|disp=FS$2Library$2")
(33 intermediate revisions by 11 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Locality
{{breadcrumb
|Name=Decatur County
|ID=394060
|Level=2
|Country=United States
|CountryID=1
|Locality1=Iowa
|Locality1id=364
|Locality2=Decatur County
|Locality2id=394060
}}{{breadcrumb
| link1=[[United States Genealogy|United States]]
| link1=[[United States Genealogy|United States]]
| link2= [[Iowa, United States Genealogy|Iowa]]
| link2= [[Iowa, United States Genealogy|Iowa]]
Line 59: Line 49:
=== Decatur County, Iowa Record Dates  ===
=== Decatur County, Iowa Record Dates  ===
{{IA Record Dates Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Record Dates Intro|Decatur}}
{| cellspacing="0" cellpadding="1" border="1"
{| cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" border="1"
|-
|-
| bgcolor="#e4d8e5" align="center" colspan="7" | <center>'''Known Beginning Dates for Government County Records'''<ref>''Handybook for Genealogists: United States of America'', 10th ed. (Draper, Utah: Everton Pub., 2002), Iowa.{{WorldCat|50140092|disp=At various libraries (WorldCat)}}; {{FSC|1049485|item|disp=FS Library Book 973 D27e 2002}}.</ref></center>
| bgcolor="#e4d8e5" align="center" colspan="7" | <center>'''Known Beginning Dates for Major County Records'''<ref>''Handybook for Genealogists: United States of America'', 10th ed. (Draper, Utah: Everton Pub., 2002), Iowa.{{WorldCat|50140092|disp=At various libraries (WorldCat)}}; {{FHL|1049485|item|disp=FS Library Book 973 D27e 2002}}.</ref></center>
|-
|-
| width="14.2%" bgcolor="#e4d8e5" align="center" | '''[[Decatur County, Iowa Genealogy#Birth|Birth*]]'''
| width="14.2%" bgcolor="#e4d8e5" align="center" | '''[[Decatur County, Iowa Genealogy#Birth|Birth*]]'''
Line 96: Line 86:
|
|
*'''1846--'''Decatur County was created 13 January 1846 from unorganized territory. It was attached to Davis County prior to being fully organized 8 May 1850.<ref>[https://digital.newberry.org/ahcb/documents/IA_Individual_County_Chronologies.htm#Individual_County_Chronologies Iowa Historical Boundary Changes] - list of all boundary changes by county provided by Newberry Library; accessed 25 July 2021.</ref><br>''
*'''1846--'''Decatur County was created 13 January 1846 from unorganized territory. It was attached to Davis County prior to being fully organized 8 May 1850.<ref>[https://digital.newberry.org/ahcb/documents/IA_Individual_County_Chronologies.htm#Individual_County_Chronologies Iowa Historical Boundary Changes] - list of all boundary changes by county provided by Newberry Library; accessed 25 July 2021.</ref><br>''
*'''County seat:''' Leon<ref>''Handybook for Genealogists: United States of America'', 10th ed. (Draper, Utah: Everton Pub., 2002), Iowa.{{WorldCat|50140092|disp=At various libraries (WorldCat)}}; {{FSC|1049485|item|disp=FS Library Book 973 D27e 2002}}.</ref><br>
*'''County seat:''' Leon<ref>''Handybook for Genealogists: United States of America'', 10th ed. (Draper, Utah: Everton Pub., 2002), Iowa.{{WorldCat|50140092|disp=At various libraries (WorldCat)}}; {{FHL|1049485|item|disp=FS Library Book 973 D27e 2002}}.</ref><br>
*[https://digital.newberry.org/ahcb/documents/IA_Individual_County_Chronologies.htm#Individual_County_Chronologies Iowa Individual County Chronologies] - Newberry Library list of all boundary changes by county
*[http://www.mapofus.org/Iowa/ Interactive Map of Iowa County Formation History] (1790-1897) - animated maps illustrating Iowa county boundary changes
*[https://publications.newberry.org/ahcb/map/map.html#IA Iowa Historical Borders - Map] at Newberry Library Atlas of Historical County Boundaries; ''Also at:'' [http://www.mapofus.org/iowa/ mapofus.org] - animated maps illustrating Iowa county boundary changes
*[https://digital.newberry.org/ahcb/documents/IA_Individual_County_Chronologies.htm#Individual_County_Chronologies Iowa Historical Boundary Changes] - list of all boundary changes by county provided by Newberry Library
|}
|}


Line 167: Line 157:
{{IA Biographies Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Biographies Intro|Decatur}}


*''Biographical and Historical Record of Ringgold and Decatur Counties, Iowa''. Chicago, IL: Lewis Publishing Co., 1887. '''''Online at:''''' [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/162405-biographical-and-historical-record-of-ringgold-and-decatur-counties-iowa?offset=1 FamilySearch Digital Library], [https://archive.org/details/biographicalhist02chic Internet Archive], [https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=iau.31858034606883&view=1up&seq=9&skin=2021 HathiTrust].
*''Biographical and Historical Record of Ringgold and Decatur Counties, Iowa... ''. 1887. Chicago, IL: Lewis Publishing Co. '''''Online at:''''' [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/162405-biographical-and-historical-record-of-ringgold-and-decatur-counties-iowa?offset=1 FamilySearch Digital Library], [https://archive.org/details/biographicalhist02chic Internet Archive], [https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=iau.31858034606883&view=1up&seq=9&skin=2021 HathiTrust].
* ''History of Decatur County, Iowa, and its People''. 2 volumes. By J.M. Howell and C Smith Heman. Chicago, IL: J. S. Clarke Publishing Co., 1915. '''''Online at:''''' Vol. I -  [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/584039-history-of-decatur-county-iowa-and-its-people-v-1?offset=1 FamilySearch Digital Library]; Vol. II - [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/415759-history-of-decatur-county-iowa-and-its-people-v-2?offset=1 FamilySearch Digital Library]; Vols. I & II - [https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/008652888 HathiTrust], [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/23751/ Ancestry] ($).
* ''History of Decatur County, Iowa, and its people''. 2 volumes. 1915. By J.M. Howell and C Smith Heman. Chicago, IL: J. S. Clarke Publishing Co. '''''Online at:''''' Vol. I -  [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/584039-history-of-decatur-county-iowa-and-its-people-v-1?offset=1 FamilySearch Digital Library]; Vol. II - [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/415759-history-of-decatur-county-iowa-and-its-people-v-2?offset=1 FamilySearch Digital Library]; Vols. I & II - [https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/008652888 HathiTrust], [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/23751/ Ancestry] ($).
* [http://sites.rootsweb.com/~iabiog/decatur/decatur.html Decatur County, Iowa Biographies Project] at RootsWeb — links to biographies and local histories<br>
* [http://sites.rootsweb.com/~iabiog/decatur/decatur.html Decatur County, Iowa Biographies Project] at RootsWeb — links to biographies and local histories<br>


=== Business, Commerce, and Occupations ===
=== Business, Commerce, and Occupations ===
{{IA Business Records Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Business Records Intro|Decatur}}
* [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-20287/iowa-state-employees?s=275764761 Iowa, State Employees] at MyHeritage — index & images ($)


=== Cemeteries ===
=== Cemeteries ===
Line 186: Line 175:


*[https://billiongraves.com/search/results?cemetery_country=United%20States&cemetery_state=Iowa&cemetery_county=Decatur&year_range=5&size=15  BillionGraves]
*[https://billiongraves.com/search/results?cemetery_country=United%20States&cemetery_state=Iowa&cemetery_county=Decatur&year_range=5&size=15  BillionGraves]
*[https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/search?firstname=&middlename=&lastname=&birthyear=&birthyearfilter=&deathyear=&deathyearfilter=&location=Decatur%2C+County%2C+Iowa%2C+United+States+of+America&locationId=county_573 Find a Grave]
*[https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/search?firstname=&middlename=&lastname=&birthyear=&birthyearfilter=&deathyear=&deathyearfilter=&location=Decatur%2C+County%2C+Iowa%2C+United+States+of+America&locationId=county_573 Find A Grave]
*[http://www.usgwtombstones.org/iowa/decatur.html IA Tombstone Transcription Project]  
*[http://www.usgwtombstones.org/iowa/decatur.html IA Tombstone Transcription Project]  
* [http://iagenweb.org/decatur/cemeteryDocs/cem_index.html IAGenWeb]
* [http://iagenweb.org/decatur/cemeteryDocs/cem_index.html IAGenWeb]
Line 192: Line 181:
* [http://www.usgwarchives.net/ia/decatur/cemetery.html USGenWeb Archives]
* [http://www.usgwarchives.net/ia/decatur/cemetery.html USGenWeb Archives]
* [https://iowawpagraves.org/index.php?cid=27 WPA 1930's Graves Registration Survey]
* [https://iowawpagraves.org/index.php?cid=27 WPA 1930's Graves Registration Survey]
*{{RecordSearch|2366613|Iowa, Church and Civil Deaths (cemetery records)}}, incomplete
|-
|-
| width="25%" bgcolor="#E0E0E0" style="border:1px solid black" | <center>'''Tombstone Transcriptions in Print''' [[The Value of Cemetery Records in Print |(Often more complete)]]</center>
| width="25%" bgcolor="#E0E0E0" style="border:1px solid black" | <center>'''Tombstone Transcriptions in Print''' [[The Value of Cemetery Records in Print |(Often more complete)]]</center>
|bgcolor="#F0F0F0" style="border:1px solid black" valign="top" |
|bgcolor="#F0F0F0" style="border:1px solid black" valign="top" |
* {{FSC|United States, Iowa, Decatur - Cemeteries|subject|subject-id=29080312|disp=FamilySearch Library}}
* {{FHL|364895|subject-id|disp=Family History Library}}
* [http://www.worldcat.org/search?q=su%3Acemetery+Decatur+Iowa&qt=advanced&dblist=638 WorldCat]
* [http://www.worldcat.org/search?q=su%3Acemetery+Decatur+Iowa&qt=advanced&dblist=638 WorldCat]
|-
|-
Line 203: Line 190:
|bgcolor="#F0F0F0" style="border:1px solid black" valign="top" |
|bgcolor="#F0F0F0" style="border:1px solid black" valign="top" |
* [https://www.familysearch.org/research/places/?reqParents=394060&reqParentsLabel=Decatur%2C%20Iowa%2C%20United%20States&reqParentsType=209&reqTypes=20&reqTypeLabel=Cemetery FamilySearch Places]
* [https://www.familysearch.org/research/places/?reqParents=394060&reqParentsLabel=Decatur%2C%20Iowa%2C%20United%20States&reqParentsType=209&reqTypes=20&reqTypeLabel=Cemetery FamilySearch Places]
* [https://www.findagrave.com/cemetery/search?cemetery-name=&cemetery-loc=Decatur%2C+County%2C+Iowa%2C+United+States+of+America&only-with-cemeteries=cemOnly&locationId=county_573 Find a Grave]
* [https://www.findagrave.com/cemetery/search?cemetery-name=&cemetery-loc=Decatur%2C+County%2C+Iowa%2C+United+States+of+America&only-with-cemeteries=cemOnly&locationId=county_573 Find A Grave]
|-
|-
| colspan="2" bgcolor="#E0E0E0" style="border:1px solid black"|<center>See [[Iowa Cemeteries|Iowa Cemeteries]] for more information.<center>
| colspan="2" bgcolor="#E0E0E0" style="border:1px solid black"|<center>See [[Iowa Cemeteries|Iowa Cemeteries]] for more information.<center>
|}
|}


=== Census Records ===
=== Census Records ===
Line 235: Line 223:


'''''State Census'''''<br>
'''''State Census'''''<br>
* '''1885''' {{RecordSearch|1803643|Iowa State Census, 1885}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa State Census, 1885 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
* '''1885''' {{RecordSearch|1803643|Iowa State Census, 1885}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa State Census, 1885 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
* '''1895''' {{RecordSearch|1803957|Iowa State Census, 1895}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa State Census, 1895 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
* '''1895''' {{RecordSearch|1803957|Iowa State Census, 1895}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa State Census, 1895 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
* '''1905''' {{RecordSearch|2126961|Iowa State Census, 1905}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa State Census, 1905 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images (individual cards, not family context)
* '''1905''' {{RecordSearch|2126961|Iowa State Census, 1905}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa State Census, 1905 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images (individual cards, not family context)
* '''1915''' {{RecordSearch|2240483|Iowa State Census, 1915}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa State Census, 1915 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
* '''1915''' {{RecordSearch|2240483|Iowa State Census, 1915}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa State Census, 1915 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
* '''1925''' {{RecordSearch|2224537|Iowa State Census, 1925}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa State Census, 1925 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
* '''1925''' {{RecordSearch|2224537|Iowa State Census, 1925}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa State Census, 1925 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images


=== Church Records ===
=== Church Records ===
{{IA Church Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Church Intro|Decatur}}


*'''1845-1987''' {{RecordSearch|2366613|Iowa, Church and Civil Deaths, 1845-1987}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Church and Civil Deaths - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images; selected counties, incomplete; includes, death, church, and cemetery records <br>
*'''[https://www.familysearch.org/research/places/?reqParents=394060&reqParentsLabel=Decatur%2C%20Iowa%2C%20United%20States&reqParentsType=209&reqTypeGroups=3&reqTypeLabel=Churches%20and%20Church%20Parishes FamilySearch Places]'''
*'''[https://www.familysearch.org/research/places/?reqParents=394060&reqParentsLabel=Decatur%2C%20Iowa%2C%20United%20States&reqParentsType=209&reqTypeGroups=3&reqTypeLabel=Churches%20and%20Church%20Parishes FamilySearch Places]'''


Line 257: Line 244:
{{IA Court Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Court Intro|Decatur}}


* '''1871-1922''' {{FSC|414497|item|disp=Court Records, 1874-1920; Index, 1871-1922}}(*); District Court at FamilySearch Catalog — index & images
* '''1871-1922''' {{FHL|414497|item|disp=Court Records, 1874-1920; Index, 1871-1922}}(*); District Court at FamilySearch Catalog — index and images
* '''1873-1886''' {{FSC|414442|item|disp=Circuit Court General Index, 1873-1886 : Complete Record, vol. 1, 1874-1886}}(*); Circuit Court at FamilySearch Catalog — index & images
* '''1873-1886''' {{FHL|414442|item|disp=Circuit Court General Index, 1873-1886 : Complete Record, vol. 1, 1874-1886}}(*); Circuit Court at FamilySearch Catalog — index and images
* '''1886-1904''' {{FSC|553943|item|disp=Miscellaneous Records, 1886-1902; Index, 1873-1904}}(*); County Recorder at FamilySearch Catalog — index & images
* '''1886-1904''' {{FHL|553943|item|disp=Miscellaneous Records, 1886-1902; Index, 1873-1904}}(*); County Recorder at FamilySearch Catalog — index and images
* '''1893-1903''' {{FSC|414434|item|disp=Insane Record, vol. 2, 1893-1903}}(*); District Court  at FamilySearch Catalog — images
* '''1893-1903''' {{FHL|414434|item|disp=Insane Record, vol. 2, 1893-1903}}(*); District Court  at FamilySearch Catalog — images
* '''1925-1976''' {{FSC|414422|item|disp=Lien Index, 1925-1976 : Index to Pigeon Holes & Flat Files}}(*); District Court at FamilySearch Catalog — index & images
* '''1925-1976''' {{FHL|414422|item|disp=Lien Index, 1925-1976 : Index to Pigeon Holes & Flat Files}}(*); District Court at FamilySearch Catalog — index and images


=== Directories ===
=== Directories ===
{{IA Directories Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Directories Intro|Decatur}}
*'''1970-2024''' {{RecordSearch|5000290|United States, Residence Database, 1970-2024}} at FamilySearch — [[United States, Residence Database - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index, coverage may vary


=== Emigration and Immigration  ===
=== Emigration and Immigration  ===
Line 287: Line 273:
{{IA Land Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Land Intro|Decatur}}


''Online Land Indexes and Records''<br>
''Online Land and Property Records''<br>
*'''1856-1866'''  {{FSC|405522|item|disp=Copies of original entries, 1856-1866}}  at FamilySearch Catalog - images
*'''1872-1945'''  {{FSC|414414|item|disp=Deeds and mortgages, 1872-1945; indexes, 1873-1901}}  at FamilySearch Catalog - index & images
*'''1881-1874'''  {{FSC|405532|item|disp=Abstract of conveyances by the state of Iowa of lands in Decatur County vol. 1, 1851-1874}}  at FamilySearch Catalog - index & images
*'''1886-1902'''  {{FSC|553943|item|disp=Miscellaneous records, 1886-1902; index, 1873-1904}}  at FamilySearch Catalog - index & images
*[https://www.familysearch.org/search/full-text Full-Text Search - Land Records] at FamilySearch - index & images; dates, records, and places vary; [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P00oMDsAsSw How to Search]


*'''1856-1866'''  {{FHL|405522|item|disp=Copies of original entries, 1856-1866}}  at FamilySearch Catalog - images
*'''1872-1945'''  {{FHL|414414|item|disp=Deeds and mortgages, 1872-1945; indexes, 1873-1901}}  at FamilySearch Catalog - index and images
*'''1881-1874'''  {{FHL|405532|item|disp=Abstract of conveyances by the state of Iowa of lands in Decatur County vol. 1, 1851-1874}}  at FamilySearch Catalog - index and images
*'''1886-1902'''  {{FHL|553943|item|disp=Miscellaneous records, 1886-1902; index, 1873-1904}}  at FamilySearch Catalog - index and images


=== Local Histories ===
=== Local Histories ===
{{IA Histories Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Histories Intro|Decatur}}


*''Biographical and Historical Record of Ringgold and Decatur Counties, Iowa''. Chicago, IL: Lewis Publishing Co., 1887. '''''Online at:''''' [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/162405-biographical-and-historical-record-of-ringgold-and-decatur-counties-iowa?offset=1 FamilySearch Digital Library], [https://archive.org/details/biographicalhist02chic Internet Archive], [https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=iau.31858034606883&view=1up&seq=9&skin=2021 HathiTrust]; {{WorldCat|1041618418|disp=At various libraries (WorldCat)}}.
*''Biographical and Historical Record of Ringgold and Decatur Counties, Iowa... ''. 1887. Chicago, IL: Lewis Publishing Co. '''''Online at:''''' [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/162405-biographical-and-historical-record-of-ringgold-and-decatur-counties-iowa?offset=1 FamilySearch Digital Library], [https://archive.org/details/biographicalhist02chic Internet Archive], [https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=iau.31858034606883&view=1up&seq=9&skin=2021 HathiTrust]; {{WorldCat|1041618418|disp=At various libraries (WorldCat)}}.
* ''History of Decatur County, Iowa, and its People''. 2 volumes. By J.M. Howell and C Smith Heman. Chicago, IL: J. S. Clarke Publishing Co., 1915. '''''Online at:''''' Vol. I - [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/584039-history-of-decatur-county-iowa-and-its-people-v-1?offset=1 FamilySearch Digital Library]; Vol. II - [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/415759-history-of-decatur-county-iowa-and-its-people-v-2?offset=1 FamilySearch Digital Library]; Vols. I & II - [https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/008652888 HathiTrust], [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/23751/ Ancestry] ($).
* ''History of Decatur County, Iowa, and its people''. 2 volumes. 1915. By J.M. Howell and C Smith Heman. Chicago, IL: J. S. Clarke Publishing Co. '''''Online at:''''' Vol. I - [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/584039-history-of-decatur-county-iowa-and-its-people-v-1?offset=1 FamilySearch Digital Library]; Vol. II - [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/415759-history-of-decatur-county-iowa-and-its-people-v-2?offset=1 FamilySearch Digital Library]; Vols. I & II - [https://catalog.hathitrust.org/Record/008652888 HathiTrust], [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/23751/ Ancestry] ($).


=== Maps and Gazetteers ===
=== Maps and Gazetteers ===
Line 309: Line 294:
* '''1875-2007''' [http://www.historicmapworks.com/Search/city.php?query=Decatur+County&State=IA&x=0&y=0 Decatur County 1875-2007] at Historic Map Works - may include names of land-owners.
* '''1875-2007''' [http://www.historicmapworks.com/Search/city.php?query=Decatur+County&State=IA&x=0&y=0 Decatur County 1875-2007] at Historic Map Works - may include names of land-owners.
* '''1886-1916''' [https://www.loc.gov/maps/?q=Decatur+County,+Iowa&st=gallery Fire Insurance Maps for Decatur County, Iowa] at Library of Congress - various years between 1886 and 1916.
* '''1886-1916''' [https://www.loc.gov/maps/?q=Decatur+County,+Iowa&st=gallery Fire Insurance Maps for Decatur County, Iowa] at Library of Congress - various years between 1886 and 1916.
* [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/results?count=20&placeId=1321&query=%2Bplace%3A%22United%20States%2C%20Iowa%2C%20Decatur%22 Decatur County Maps] at FamilySearch Catalog.
* [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/results?count=20&placeId=202028&query=%2Bplace%3A%22United%20States%2C%20Iowa%2C%20Decatur%22 Decatur County Maps] at FamilySearch Catalog.
* IAGenWeb - [http://iagenweb.org/decatur/ Decatur County].
* IAGenWeb - [http://iagenweb.org/decatur/ Decatur County].
* [https://digital.lib.uiowa.edu/islandora/search/Decatur%20County%2C%20Iowa?type=edismax&cp=ui%3Aatlases Iowa Digital Library, Decatur County] at Iowa University Libraries.
* [https://digital.lib.uiowa.edu/islandora/search/Decatur%20County%2C%20Iowa?type=edismax&cp=ui%3Aatlases Iowa Digital Library, Decatur County] at Iowa University Libraries.
Line 330: Line 315:
'''''Multiple Wars'''''
'''''Multiple Wars'''''
* '''1835-1998''' {{RecordSearch|2515886|Iowa, Armed Forces Grave Registrations, ca. 1835-1998}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Armed Forces Grave Registrations - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index only
* '''1835-1998''' {{RecordSearch|2515886|Iowa, Armed Forces Grave Registrations, ca. 1835-1998}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Armed Forces Grave Registrations - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index only
* '''1862-1910''' {{RecordSearch|2821291|Iowa, Records of Persons Subject to Military Duty, 1862-1910}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Records of Persons Subject to Military Duty - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
* '''1862-1910''' {{RecordSearch|2821291|Iowa, Records of Persons Subject to Military Duty, 1862-1910}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Records of Persons Subject to Military Duty - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images


'''''Civil War'''''<br>
'''''Civil War'''''<br>
* '''1861-1949''' {{RecordSearch|2351982|Iowa, Grand Army of the Republic Membership Records, 1861-1949}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Grand Army of the Republic Membership Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
* '''1861-1949''' {{RecordSearch|2351982|Iowa, Grand Army of the Republic Membership Records, 1861-1949}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Grand Army of the Republic Membership Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
Civil War service men in Decatur County served in various regiments. Men often joined a company (within a regiment) that originated in their county. Listed below are companies that were specifically formed here:
Civil War service men in Decatur County served in various regiments. Men often joined a company (within a regiment) that originated in their county. Listed below are companies that were specifically formed here:
:- [[4th Regiment, Iowa Infantry|4th Regiment, Iowa Infantry]], Company D
:- [[4th Regiment, Iowa Infantry|4th Regiment, Iowa Infantry]], Company D
Line 343: Line 328:


''Online Naturalization Indexes and Records''<br>
''Online Naturalization Indexes and Records''<br>
* '''1859-1990''' {{RecordSearch|3155890|United States, Iowa Naturalization Records, 1859-1990}} at FamilySearch — [[United States, Iowa Naturalization Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
* '''1859-1990''' {{RecordSearch|3155890|United States, Iowa Naturalization Records, 1859-1990}} at FamilySearch — [[United States, Iowa Naturalization Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
* '''1876-1928''' {{FSC|490055|item|disp=Naturalization Records, 1876-1928}}(*); District Court at FamilySearch Catalog —index, images
* '''1876-1928''' {{FHL|490055|item|disp=Naturalization Records, 1876-1928}}(*); District Court at FamilySearch Catalog —index, images
* '''1930-1936''' {{FSC|712491|item|disp=Naturalization Related Records, 1930-1936}}(*); District Court at FamilySearch Catalog —images
* '''1930-1936''' {{FHL|712491|item|disp=Naturalization Related Records, 1930-1936}}(*); District Court at FamilySearch Catalog —images


=== Newspapers ===
=== Newspapers ===
{{IA Newspapers Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Newspapers Intro|Decatur}}


*'''1800s-Current''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/50040/ Iowa, U.S., Newspapers.com™ Stories and Events Index, 1800's-Current] at Ancestry — index & images ($)
* '''1938''' ''[http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=8392 Leon Journal Record.]'' 1938 Leon, IA, USA. Online at Ancestry ($)
* '''1938''' ''[http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=8392 Leon Journal Record.]'' 1938 Leon, IA, USA. Online at Ancestry ($)


Line 366: Line 350:


''Online Probate Indexes and Records''<br>
''Online Probate Indexes and Records''<br>
* '''1758-1997''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/9064/ Iowa, U.S., Wills and Probate Records, 1758-1997] at Ancestry — index & images ($)
* '''1758-1997''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/9064/ Iowa, U.S., Wills and Probate Records, 1758-1997] at Ancestry — index & images, ($)
*'''1871-1952'''  {{FSC|423100|item|disp=Probate Records, 1871-1952; Index 1864-1926}}(*); Probate Court at FamilySearch Catalog - index & images
*'''1871-1952'''  {{FHL|423100|item|disp=Probate Records, 1871-1952; Index 1864-1926}}(*); Probate Court at FamilySearch Catalog - index & images
* {{FSC|121014|item|disp=General Index to Probate Records, No. 1}}(*); Probate Court at FamilySearch Catalog - index & images
* {{FHL|121014|item|disp=General Index to Probate Records, No. 1}}(*); Probate Court at FamilySearch Catalog - index & images
*[https://www.familysearch.org/search/full-text Full-Text Search - Wills and Probate Records] at FamilySearch - index & images; dates, records, and places vary; [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P00oMDsAsSw How to Search]
 


=== School Records ===
=== School Records ===
Line 377: Line 359:
=== Social Security Records ===
=== Social Security Records ===
*'''1935-2014''' {{RecordSearch|1202535|United States Social Security Death Index}} at FamilySearch — [[United States Social Security Death Index - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index. ''Also at [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/3693/ Ancestry], [https://search.findmypast.com/search-world-Records/social-security-death-index findmypast], [https://www.fold3.com/title/830/ Fold3], [https://www.genealogybank.com/explore/ssdi/all GenealogyBank], [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-10002/us-social-security-death-index-ssdi?s=270606331 MyHeritage], and [https://stevemorse.org/ssdi/ssdi.html Steve Morse].'' [[United States Social Security Administration Records#Social Security Death Index (SSDI)|Click here for more information]].
*'''1935-2014''' {{RecordSearch|1202535|United States Social Security Death Index}} at FamilySearch — [[United States Social Security Death Index - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index. ''Also at [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/3693/ Ancestry], [https://search.findmypast.com/search-world-Records/social-security-death-index findmypast], [https://www.fold3.com/title/830/ Fold3], [https://www.genealogybank.com/explore/ssdi/all GenealogyBank], [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-10002/us-social-security-death-index-ssdi?s=270606331 MyHeritage], and [https://stevemorse.org/ssdi/ssdi.html Steve Morse].'' [[United States Social Security Administration Records#Social Security Death Index (SSDI)|Click here for more information]].
*'''1936-2007''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60901/ U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007] at Ancestry — index & images ($)
*'''1936-2007''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60901/ U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007] at Ancestry — index and images, ($)
*'''1936-2007''' {{RecordSearch|5000016|United States, Social Security Numerical Identification Files (NUMIDENT), 1936-2007}} at FamilySearch - [[United States, Social Security Numerical Identification Files (NUMIDENT) - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index


=== Tax Records ===
=== Tax Records ===
Line 386: Line 367:
* '''1926''' ''Assessor's book 1926 New Buda Township, Decatur County, Iowa''. '''Online at:''' [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/533657-assessor-s-book-1926-new-buda-township-decatur-county-iowa?viewer=1&offset=8#page=1&viewer=picture&o=&n=0&q= FamilySearch Digital Library].
* '''1926''' ''Assessor's book 1926 New Buda Township, Decatur County, Iowa''. '''Online at:''' [https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/533657-assessor-s-book-1926-new-buda-township-decatur-county-iowa?viewer=1&offset=8#page=1&viewer=picture&o=&n=0&q= FamilySearch Digital Library].


* '''1934-1958''' {{RecordSearch|2573700|Iowa, Old Age Tax Assistance Records, 1934-1958}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Old Age Tax Assistance Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
* '''1934-1958''' {{RecordSearch|2573700|Iowa, Old Age Tax Assistance Records, 1934-1958}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Old Age Tax Assistance Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images


=== Vital Records ===
=== Vital Records ===
Line 394: Line 375:
{{IA Birth Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Birth Intro|Decatur}}


* '''1850-1939''' {{RecordSearch|2527591|Iowa, Delayed Birth Records, 1850-1939}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Delayed Birth Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
* '''1850-1939''' {{RecordSearch|2527591|Iowa, Delayed Birth Records, 1850-1939}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Delayed Birth Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
* '''1880-1935''' {{RecordSearch|1821206|Iowa, County Births, 1880-1935}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, County Births - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
* '''1880-1935''' {{RecordSearch|1821206|Iowa, County Births, 1880-1935}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, County Births - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
* '''1921-1942''' {{RecordSearch|2849548|Iowa, Birth Records, 1921-1942}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Birth Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
* '''1921-1942''' {{RecordSearch|2849548|Iowa, Birth Records, 1921-1942}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Birth Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
*'''1921-1947''' {{RecordSearch|2849548|Iowa, Birth and Stillbirth Records, 1921-1947}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Birth and Stillbirth Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images, coverage may vary


==== Marriage ====
==== Marriage ====
Line 403: Line 383:


*'''1518-1996''' [https://search.findmypast.com/search-world-records/united-states-marriages?state=iowa%2cia Iowa, United States Marriages] at Findmypast — index ($)
*'''1518-1996''' [https://search.findmypast.com/search-world-records/united-states-marriages?state=iowa%2cia Iowa, United States Marriages] at Findmypast — index ($)
*'''1809-1992''' [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-30192/iowa-marriages-1809-1992?s=275764761 Iowa, Marriages, 1809-1992] at MyHeritage — index ($)
*'''1809-1992''' [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-30192/iowa-marriages-1809-1992?s=275764761 Iowa, Marriages, 1809-1992] at MyHeritage — index, ($)
*'''1836-1926''' [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-10206/iowa-marriages-1836-1926?s=275764761 Iowa, Marriages, 1836 - 1926] at MyHeritage — index ($)
*'''1836-1926''' [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-10206/iowa-marriages-1836-1926?s=275764761 Iowa, Marriages, 1836 - 1926] at MyHeritage — index, ($)
*'''1838-1934''' {{RecordSearch|1805551|Iowa, County Marriages, 1838-1934}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, County Marriages - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
*'''1838-1934''' {{RecordSearch|1805551|Iowa, County Marriages, 1838-1934}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, County Marriages - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
* '''1880-1951''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/8823/ Iowa, U.S., Marriage Records, 1880-1951] at Ancestry — index & images ($)
* '''1880-1951''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/8823/ Iowa, U.S., Marriage Records, 1880-1951] at Ancestry — index and images, ($)
* '''1941-1951''' {{RecordSearch|4127799|Iowa, Marriage Records, 1941-1951}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Marriage Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
* '''1941-1951''' {{RecordSearch|4127799|Iowa, Marriage Records, 1941-1951}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Marriage Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images


Line 412: Line 392:
{{IA Death Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Death Intro|Decatur}}


*'''1845-1987''' {{RecordSearch|2366613|Iowa, Church and Civil Deaths, 1845-1987}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Church and Civil Deaths - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images; selected counties, incomplete; includes, death, church, and cemetery records <br>
* '''1850-1990''' {{RecordSearch|1674841|Iowa Deaths and Burials, 1850-1990}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa Deaths and Burials - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and some images; ''Also at: [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-30191/iowa-deaths-burials-1850-1990?s=275764761 MyHeritage]($)''
* '''1850-1990''' {{RecordSearch|1674841|Iowa Deaths and Burials, 1850-1990}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa Deaths and Burials - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and some images; ''Also at: [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-30191/iowa-deaths-burials-1850-1990?s=275764761 MyHeritage]($)''
* '''1880-1992''' {{RecordSearch|2110820|Iowa, County Death Records, 1880-1992}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, County Death Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
* '''1880-1992''' {{RecordSearch|2110820|Iowa, County Death Records, 1880-1992}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, County Death Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
*'''1888-1904''' {{RecordSearch|5000144|Iowa, Death Records, 1888-1904}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Death Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images, coverage may vary
*'''1900-1939''' [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-10186/iowa-death-index-1900-1939?s=275764761 Iowa Death Index, 1900-1939] at MyHeritage — index, ($)
*'''1900-1939''' [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-10186/iowa-death-index-1900-1939?s=275764761 Iowa Death Index, 1900-1939] at MyHeritage — index ($)
* '''1904-1951''' {{RecordSearch|2531337|Iowa, Death Records, 1904-1951}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Death Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
* '''1904-1951''' {{RecordSearch|2531337|Iowa, Death Records, 1904-1951}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Death Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index & images
* '''1920-1967''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/61442/ Iowa, U.S., Death Records, 1920-1967] at Ancestry — index and images, ($)
* '''1920-1967''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/61442/ Iowa, U.S., Death Records, 1920-1967] at Ancestry — index & images ($)


==== Divorce ====
==== Divorce ====
{{IA Divorce Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Divorce Intro|Decatur}}
* '''1891-1991''' {{FSC|489969|item|disp=Divorce Records, v. 1, 1891-1991}}(*) at FamilySearch Catalog — images
* '''1891-1991''' {{FHL|489969|item|disp=Divorce Records, v. 1, 1891-1991}}(*) at FamilySearch Catalog — images


== Research Facilities ==
== Research Facilities ==
Line 430: Line 408:
{{IA Archives Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Archives Intro|Decatur}}


=== FamilySearch Centers ===
=== Family History Centers ===
{{FamilySearch Centers Intro}}
{{Family History Centers Intro}}


*[https://locations.familysearch.org/en/us/ia/osceola/2519-e-hwy-34 Osceola Iowa FamilySearch Center]
*[[Indianola Iowa Family History Center]]
*[https://locations.familysearch.org/en/us/mo/trenton/2930-oklahoma-avenue Trenton Missouri FamilySearch Center]
*[[Oskaloosa Iowa Family History Center]]
*[[Osceola Iowa Family History Center]]
*[[Red Rock Iowa Family History Center]]


=== Libraries ===
=== Libraries ===
{{IA Libraries Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Libraries Intro|Decatur}}


'''Lamoni Public Library'''<br>301 W Main Street<br>Lamoni, IA 50140<br>Phone: 641-784-6686<br>Email: [mailto:lamonipl@grm.net lamonipl@grm.net]<br>[https://www.lamonilibrary.org Website]<br>[https://www.facebook.com/lamonipl/ Facebook]<br><br>
'''Lamoni Public Library'''<br>301 W Main Street<br>Lamoni, IA 50140<br>641-784-6686<br>Email: [mailto:lamonipl@grm.net lamonipl@grm.net]<br>[https://www.lamonilibrary.org Website]<br>[https://www.facebook.com/lamonipl/ Facebook]<br><br>
'''Leon Public Library'''<br>200 W 1st Street<br>Leon, IA 50144<br>Phone: 641-446-6332<br>Email: [mailto:john@leon.lib.ia.us john@leon.lib.ia.us]<br>[https://www.leon.lib.ia.us Website]<br>[https://www.facebook.com/leonlibrary/ Facebook]<br><br>
'''Leon Public Library'''<br>200 W 1st Street<br>Leon, IA 50144<br>641-446-6332<br>Email: [mailto:john@leon.lib.ia.us john@leon.lib.ia.us]<br>[https://www.leon.lib.ia.us Website]<br>[https://www.facebook.com/leonlibrary/ Facebook]<br><br>


=== Museums ===
=== Museums ===
{{IA Museums Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Museums Intro|Decatur}}


'''Liberty Hall'''<br>1138 W Main Street<br>Lamoni, IA 50140<br>Phone: 641-784-6133<br>Email: [mailto:libhall@grm.net libhall@grm.net]<br>[https://www.cofchrist.org/visit-lamoni Website]<br>[https://www.facebook.com/Liberty-Hall-Historic-Center-Joseph-Smith-III-Home-136048299826815/ Facebook]<br><br>
'''Liberty Hall'''<br>1138 W Main Street<br>Lamoni, IA 50140<br>641-784-6133<br>Email: [mailto:libhall@grm.net libhall@grm.net]<br>[https://www.cofchrist.org/visit-lamoni Website]<br>[https://www.facebook.com/Liberty-Hall-Historic-Center-Joseph-Smith-III-Home-136048299826815/ Facebook]<br><br>
'''
'''


Line 451: Line 431:
{{IA Societies Intro|Decatur}}
{{IA Societies Intro|Decatur}}


'''Decatur County Genealogical Society'''<br>Lamoni Public Library<br>301 West Main<br>Lamoni, IA 50140<br>Phone: 641-784-6686<br>Email: [mailto:lamonipl@grm.net lamonipl@grm.net]<br>[https://www.facebook.com/DecaturCoIA/?ref=page_internal Facebook]<br><br>
'''Decatur County Genealogical Society'''<br>Lamoni Public Library<br>301 West Main<br>Lamoni, IA 50140<br>641-784-6686<br>Email: [mailto:lamonipl@grm.net lamonipl@grm.net]<br>[https://www.facebook.com/DecaturCoIA/?ref=page_internal Facebook]<br><br>
'''Decatur County Historical Society'''<br>100 Block of North Main<br>Leon, IA 50140<br>Email: [mailto:rjbixby@grm.net rjbixby@grm.net]<br>[http://iagenweb.org/decatur/Hist_Soc/Decatur_Hist_Society.html Website]<br>[https://www.facebook.com/groups/460942027270339/?ref=group_cover Facebook]<br><br>
'''Decatur County Historical Society'''<br>100 Block of North Main<br>Leon, IA 50140<br>Email: [mailto:rjbixby@grm.net rjbixby@grm.net]<br>[http://iagenweb.org/decatur/Hist_Soc/Decatur_Hist_Society.html Website]<br>[https://www.facebook.com/groups/460942027270339/?ref=group_cover Facebook]<br><br>


Line 464: Line 444:
* [http://publications.iowa.gov/cgi/search/simple?q=decatur+county&_action_search=Search&_order=-byyear%2Fbytitle&basic_srchtype=ALL&_satisfyall=ALL State Library of Iowa] —  electronic depository of documents intended for the general public produced by Iowa agencies
* [http://publications.iowa.gov/cgi/search/simple?q=decatur+county&_action_search=Search&_order=-byyear%2Fbytitle&basic_srchtype=ALL&_satisfyall=ALL State Library of Iowa] —  electronic depository of documents intended for the general public produced by Iowa agencies
* [http://www.iowaheritage.org/items/browse?search=decatur+county&submit_search=Search+All The Iowa Heritage Digital Collection] —  digital images from a variety of Iowa cultural institutions
* [http://www.iowaheritage.org/items/browse?search=decatur+county&submit_search=Search+All The Iowa Heritage Digital Collection] —  digital images from a variety of Iowa cultural institutions
*{{FSC Place IDNum|1321|Iowa|Decatur}} – The FamilySearch catalog contains descriptions and access information for all genealogical materials (including books, online materials, microfilm, microfiche, and publications) in their collection.  Use [https://familysearch.org/search/ Historical Records] to search for specific individuals in genealogical records.
*{{FHL Place IDNum|202028|Iowa|Decatur}} – The FamilySearch catalog contains descriptions and access information for all genealogical materials (including books, online materials, microfilm, microfiche, and publications) in their collection.  Use [https://familysearch.org/search/ Historical Records] to search for specific individuals in genealogical records.


== Research Guides ==
== Research Guides ==

Revision as of 14:39, 5 December 2022

Guide to Decatur County, Iowa ancestry, genealogy and family history, birth records, marriage records, death records, census records, and military records.

County Facts
County seat: Leon
Organized: May 8 1850[1]
Parent County(s): Unorganized territory[2]
Neighboring Counties
Clarke • Lucas • Ringgold • Union • Wayne • Harrison (MO) • Mercer (MO)
See County Maps
Courthouse
Iowa, Decatur County Courthouse.png
Location Map
Iowa Decatur Map.png
Stephen Decatur

County Information[edit | edit source]

Description[edit | edit source]

Decatur County was named for Stephen Decatur Jr and is located in southern Iowa.[3]

County Courthouse[edit | edit source]

Decatur County Courthouse
207 N Main Street
Leon, IA 50144-1647
Phone: 515-446-4331
Decatur County Website

Decatur County, Iowa Record Dates[edit | edit source]

Information for this chart was taken from various sources, often containing conflicting dates. This information should be taken as a guide and should be verified by contacting the county and/or the state government agency.

Known Beginning Dates for Major County Records[4]
Birth* Marriage Death* Court Land Probate Census
1880 1880 1880 1871 1874 1880 1847
* Statewide registration started for births in July 1880 and for deaths January 1891. General compliance by 1924.

Record Loss[edit | edit source]

1874 Courthouse was destroyed by fire on March 31 and most records were lost.

For suggestions about research in places that suffered historic record losses, see:

Boundary Changes[edit | edit source]

Populated Places[edit | edit source]

For a complete list of populated places, including small neighborhoods and suburbs, visit HomeTown Locator. The following are the most historically and genealogically relevant populated places in this county:[7]

Cities
Unincorporated communities
Townships


History Timeline[edit | edit source]

Resources[edit | edit source]

Bible Records[edit | edit source]

Listed below are resources for Bible records specific to Decatur County. To find more resources, go to the Iowa Bible Records page.


Biographies[edit | edit source]

Business, Commerce, and Occupations[edit | edit source]

Cemeteries[edit | edit source]

Cemeteries of Decatur County, Iowa online and in print
Tombstone Transcriptions Online
Tombstone Transcriptions in Print (Often more complete)
List of Cemeteries in the County
See Iowa Cemeteries for more information.


Census Records[edit | edit source]

Iowa recorded not only federal, but state censuses for several in-between years as well. For more information, see the very informative Iowa Census article.

Historical populations
Census Pop. %±
1850 965 —
1860 8,677 799.2%
1870 12,018 38.5%
1880 15,336 27.6%
1890 15,643 2.0%
1900 18,115 15.8%
1910 16,347 −9.8%
1920 16,566 1.3%
1930 14,903 −10.0%
1940 14,012 −6.0%
1950 12,601 −10.1%
1960 10,539 −16.4%
1970 9,737 −7.6%
1980 9,794 0.6%
1990 8,338 −14.9%
2000 8,689 4.2%
2010 8,457 −2.7%
Source: "Wikipedia.org".

State Census

Church Records[edit | edit source]

Most church records are held by individual churches. Some denominations are gathering their records into a central repository. For more information about these major repositories, see Iowa Church Records.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints LDS Ward and Branch Records

  • Garden Grove

Lutheran

Court Records[edit | edit source]

Directories[edit | edit source]

Emigration and Immigration[edit | edit source]

Ethnic, Political, and Religious Groups[edit | edit source]

Funeral Homes[edit | edit source]

Genealogies[edit | edit source]

Guardianship[edit | edit source]

Land and Property Records[edit | edit source]

Land and property records can place an ancestor in a particular location, provide economic information, and reveal family relationships. They include: deeds, abstracts and indexes, mortgages, leases, grants and land patents.

See Iowa Land and Property for information about early Iowa land grants. After land was transferred to private ownership, transactions were usually recorded and housed at the county courthouse.

Online Land and Property Records

Local Histories[edit | edit source]

Local histories are available for Decatur County, which may include biographies, church, school and government history, and military information. For more information about local histories, see Iowa Local Histories.

Maps and Gazetteers[edit | edit source]

County and state maps, historical and more current, are valuable research tools. For online maps and collections in libraries and societies, see Iowa Maps. Historical maps may be especially useful.

Clarke CountyLucas CountyUnion CountyRinggold CountyWayne CountyHarrison CountyMercer CountyIA DECATUR.PNG
Click a neighboring county
for more resources

Migration[edit | edit source]

Early migration routes to and from Decatur County for European settlers included:

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


Military Records[edit | edit source]

Multiple Wars

Civil War

Civil War service men in Decatur County served in various regiments. Men often joined a company (within a regiment) that originated in their county. Listed below are companies that were specifically formed here:

- 4th Regiment, Iowa Infantry, Company D
- 17th Regiment, Iowa Infantry, Company A
- 48th Regiment, Iowa Infantry (100 days, 1864), Company C

Naturalization and Citizenship[edit | edit source]

Please see the Iowa Naturalization and Citizenship page for state-wide information.

Online Naturalization Indexes and Records

Newspapers[edit | edit source]

Obituaries[edit | edit source]

Other Records[edit | edit source]

Periodicals[edit | edit source]

Probate Records[edit | edit source]

In most counties in Iowa, probate records have been kept by the county judge. They include wills, fee books, claim registers, legacy records, inheritance records, probate ticklers, and dockets. The records are available at the county courthouse.

Online Probate Indexes and Records

School Records[edit | edit source]

Social Security Records[edit | edit source]

Tax Records[edit | edit source]

Iowa tax records complement land records and can supplement the years between censuses. Iowa's unique Old Age Assistance tax gives names, addresses and birth years. There may be gaps of several years. For more information, see the wiki page Iowa Taxation.

Online Tax Indexes and Records

Vital Records[edit | edit source]

Vital Records consist of births, marriages, divorces, and deaths recorded by civil officials on registers, certificates, and other documents. Copies or extracts may be purchased from the Iowa Department of Public Health or the County Clerk's office. See also Iowa Vital Records.

Birth[edit | edit source]

Marriage[edit | edit source]

Death[edit | edit source]

Divorce[edit | edit source]

Research Facilities[edit | edit source]

Archives[edit | edit source]

Listed below are archives in Decatur County. For state-wide library facilities, see Iowa Archives and Libraries.

Family History Centers[edit | edit source]

Template:Family History Centers Intro

Libraries[edit | edit source]

Listed below are libraries in Decatur County. For state-wide library facilities, see Iowa Archives and Libraries.

Lamoni Public Library
301 W Main Street
Lamoni, IA 50140
641-784-6686
Email: lamonipl@grm.net
Website
Facebook

Leon Public Library
200 W 1st Street
Leon, IA 50144
641-446-6332
Email: john@leon.lib.ia.us
Website
Facebook

Museums[edit | edit source]

Liberty Hall
1138 W Main Street
Lamoni, IA 50140
641-784-6133
Email: libhall@grm.net
Website
Facebook

Societies[edit | edit source]

Listed below are societies in Decatur County. For state-wide genealogical societies, see Iowa Societies.

Decatur County Genealogical Society
Lamoni Public Library
301 West Main
Lamoni, IA 50140
641-784-6686
Email: lamonipl@grm.net
Facebook

Decatur County Historical Society
100 Block of North Main
Leon, IA 50140
Email: rjbixby@grm.net
Website
Facebook

Websites[edit | edit source]

  • Decatur County at Cyndi's List - a comprehensive, categorized & cross-referenced list of links that point you to genealogical research sites online
  • Decatur County at Genealogy Trails - volunteer transcriptions of genealogical and historical data
  • Decatur County at Iowa USGenWeb - free online resources for genealogical research
  • Decatur County at Iowa USGenWeb Archives - free online data for genealogical research
  • State Historical Society of Iowa — select from research collection topics
  • State Library of Iowa — electronic depository of documents intended for the general public produced by Iowa agencies
  • The Iowa Heritage Digital Collection — digital images from a variety of Iowa cultural institutions
  • FamilySearch Catalog – The FamilySearch catalog contains descriptions and access information for all genealogical materials (including books, online materials, microfilm, microfiche, and publications) in their collection.  Use Historical Records to search for specific individuals in genealogical records.

Research Guides[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Iowa Historical Boundary Changes - list of all boundary changes by county provided by Newberry Library; accessed 23 July 2021.
  2. ↑ Iowa Historical Boundary Changes - list of all boundary changes by county provided by Newberry Library; accessed 23 July 2021.
  3. ↑ Wikipedia contributors, "Decatur, Iowa," in Wikipedia: the Free Encyclopedia, "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decatur_County,_Iowa.
  4. ↑ Handybook for Genealogists: United States of America, 10th ed. (Draper, Utah: Everton Pub., 2002), Iowa.At various libraries (WorldCat); FS Library Book 973 D27e 2002.
  5. ↑ Iowa Historical Boundary Changes - list of all boundary changes by county provided by Newberry Library; accessed 25 July 2021.
  6. ↑ Handybook for Genealogists: United States of America, 10th ed. (Draper, Utah: Everton Pub., 2002), Iowa.At various libraries (WorldCat); FS Library Book 973 D27e 2002.
  7. ↑ Wikipedia contributors, "Decatur County, Iowa," in Wikipedia: the Free Encyclopedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decatur_County,_Iowa, accessed 2 September 2019.
  8. ↑ National Park Service, "Auto Tour Route Maps" in Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail at http://www.nps.gov/mopi/planyourvisit/maps.htm (accessed 18 July 2011).
v • d• e
Links to Iowa-related articles
Topics
Counties
Adair · Adams · Allamakee · Appanoose · Audubon · Benton · Black Hawk · Boone · Bremer · Buchanan · Buena Vista · Butler · Calhoun · Carroll · Cass · Cedar · Cerro Gordo · Cherokee · Chickasaw · Clarke · Clay · Clayton · Clinton · Crawford · Dallas · Davis · Decatur · Delaware · Des Moines · Dickinson · Dubuque · Emmet · Fayette · Floyd · Franklin · Fremont · Greene · Grundy · Guthrie · Hamilton · Hancock · Hardin · Harrison · Henry · Howard · Humboldt · Ida · Iowa · Jackson · Jasper · Jefferson · Johnson · Jones · Keokuk · Kossuth · Lee · Linn · Louisa · Lucas · Lyon · Madison · Mahaska · Marion · Marshall · Mills · Mitchell · Monona · Monroe · Montgomery · Muscatine · O'Brien · Osceola · Page · Palo Alto · Plymouth · Pocahontas · Polk · Pottawattamie · Poweshiek · Ringgold · Sac · Scott · Shelby · Sioux · Story · Tama · Taylor · Union · Van Buren · Wapello · Warren · Washington · Wayne · Webster · Winnebago · Winneshiek · Woodbury · Worth · Wright
Extinct Co.
Major
 Repositories
Early Paths

This website requires a paid subscription for full access. Some subscription websites are available for free at your local FamilySearch Center or Affiliate Library.

To access available information, first log into FamilySearch.

Due to contractual agreements, some images and/or databases on FamilySearch.org may only be viewed at a FamilySearch Center or FamilySearch Affiliate Library.

Retrieved from "https://integration-ru.familysearch.org/en/wiki/index.php?title=Decatur_County,_Iowa_Genealogy&oldid=5025188"