Iowa Church Records: Difference between revisions

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<center>'''For greater success, use all the Wiki Articles in this series:'''</center>
*[[What Can I Find in U.S. Church Records?|'''What Can I Find in U.S. Church Records?''']]
*[[Determining the Church Your Ancestor Attended|'''Determining the Church Your Ancestor Attended''']]
*[[How to Find Church Records in the United States|'''How to Find Church Records in the United States''']]
*[[United States Church Records#Searching for Church Records by Denomination|'''Searching for Church Records by Denomination''' ]]
*[[United States Church Records#Searching for Church Records by U.S. State|'''Searching for Church Records by U.S. State''']]
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==Historical Background==
Before 1900, the largest religious groups were the [[Roman Catholic Church in the United States|'''Roman Catholic''']], [[Methodist Church in the United States|'''Methodist''']], [[Presbyterian Church in the United States|'''Presbyterian''']], [[Lutheran Church in the United States|'''Lutheran''']] churches along with [[Society of Friends (Quakers) in the United States|'''The Society of Friends (Quakers)''']] and other small groups were also early settlers. <ref>[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iowa#Religion/ Iowa Religions] </ref><ref>[http://www.greene.k12.ia.us/Fink%20Web%20Page/standards_iowa_history.htm/ Iowa History Standards and Benchmarks] </ref><ref>[https://www.iaym.org/aboutus/history/ Brief History of Iowa Yearly Meeting of Friends] </ref>
 
==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:
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*[[What Can I Find in U.S. Church Records?#Baptisms or Christenings|Baptisms or Christenings]]
*[[What Can I Find in U.S. Church Records?#Marriages|Marriages]]
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*[[What Can I Find in U.S. Church Records?#Funerals or Burials|Funerals or Burials]]
*[[What Can I Find in U.S. Church Records?#Membership Lists|Membership Lists]]
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*[[What Can I Find in U.S. Church Records?#Minutes or Historical Narrative|Minutes or Historical Narrative]]
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=== Church Records and Archives  ===
==Finding the Records==
===Look for online records.===


Church records have been kept in [[Iowa Genealogy|Iowa]] since the 1830s. Information from church records varies greatly, depending upon the denomination and the record keeper. Records may contain such information about members of the congregation as age, dates of baptism, christening, or birth, marriage information, wife’s maiden name, and death dates. Records may include names of other relatives who were witnesses at church events or members of the congregation. The members of some churches were predominately of one nationality or ethnic group. Knowing this may help you find the foreign town from which your ancestors immigrated.
<br>


Before 1900 the largest religious groups were the [[Roman Catholic Church in the United States|Roman Catholic]], [[Methodist Church in the United States|Methodist]], [[Presbyterian Church in the United States|Presbyterian]], [[Lutheran Church in the United States|Lutheran]] churches along with [[Society of Friends (Quakers) in the United States|The Society of Friends (Quakers)]] and other small groups were also early settlers. <ref>[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iowa#Religion/ Iowa Religions] </ref><ref>[http://www.greene.k12.ia.us/Fink%20Web%20Page/standards_iowa_history.htm/ Iowa History Standards and Benchmarks] </ref><ref>[http://www.quakernet.org/Discipline%201974/brief_history_of_iowa_yearly_mee.htm/ Brief History of Iowa Yearly Meeting of Friends] </ref>  
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Online databases are <span style="color:Red">'''incomplete'''</span>. This can lead to two common errors:
#'''Near matches:''' Researchers might <span style="color:Red">'''mistakenly accept an entry very similar to their ancestor'''</span>, thinking it is the only one available. Only use information that matches your ancestor in date, place, relationships, and other details.
#'''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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<br>


Protestant church records are a prime source for identifying the German hometowns and villages of American immigrants:  
*'''1839-2004''' {{RecordSearch|2790247|Iowa, Church Records, 1839-2004}} at FamilySearch; index and some images — [[Iowa, Church Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]
<br>
*'''1830-1950''' {{RecordSearch|1674820|Iowa Births and Christenings, 1830-1950}} at FamilySearch; Index — [[Iowa Births and Christenings - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]
*'''1857-1947''' [http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=2547 Iowa Births and Christenings Index, 1857-1947] at Ancestry; Index ($)
*'''1837-1987''' {{RecordSearch|2366597|Iowa, Church and Civil Births and Baptisms, 1837-1987}} at FamilySearch; index and images — [[Iowa, Church and Civil Births and Baptisms - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]
<br>


*[http://www.worldcat.org/title/german-immigrants-in-american-church-records-volume-7-iowa-west-protestant/oclc/772645615 German Immigrants in Western Iowa Protestant Church Records]  
*'''1809-1992''' {{RecordSearch|1674842|Iowa Marriages, 1809-1992}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa Marriages - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index; ''Also at: [https://www.americanancestors.org/search/databasesearch/1612/iowa-marriages-1809-1992 American Ancestors] ($), [http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=60284 Ancestry] ($), [http://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-30192/iowa-marriages-1809-1992?s=218489221 MyHeritage] ($)''
*[https://familysearch.org/search/catalog/1316260?availability=Family%20History%20Library German Immigrants in NE Iowa Protestant Church Records]&nbsp;
*'''1836-1926''' [http://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-10206/iowa-marriages-1836-1926?s=218489221 Iowa, Marriages, 1836 - 1926] at MyHeritage ($), index.
*'''1837-1989''' {{RecordSearch|2366605|Iowa, Church and Civil Marriages, 1837-1989}} at FamilySearch; index — [[Iowa, Church and Civil Marriages - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]
<br>


=== Baptist  ===
*'''1845-1987''' {{RecordSearch|2366613|Iowa, Church and Civil Deaths, 1845-1987}} at FamilySearch; index — [[Iowa, Church and Civil Deaths - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]
*'''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; ''Also at: [https://www.americanancestors.org/search/databasesearch/1611/iowa-deaths-and-burials-1850-1990 American Ancestors] ($), [http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=60283 Ancestry] ($), [http://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-30191/iowa-deaths-burials-1850-1990?s=218489221 MyHeritage] ($)''


[http://www.nabconference.org/ North American Baptist Conference]<br>1 South 210 Summit Avenue<br>Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181<br>Phone: (630) 495-2000<br>Fax: (630) 495-0333 <br>
=====Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints=====
*[https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/253072-redirection Early church vital records, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Iowa] at FamilySearch; e-book
*[https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/127794 Record of members, 1882-1941; annual genealogical report, Form E, 1907-1951, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Iowa District] at FamilySearch
=====Dutch Reformed=====
*'''1639-1989''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/6961/ U.S., Dutch Reformed Church Records in Selected States, 1639-1989], index and images, incomplete. at Ancestry ($)
*'''1701-1995''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60766/ U.S., Selected States Dutch Reformed Church Membership Records, 1701-1995], index and images, incomplete. at Ancestry ($)
*'''1856-1970''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60524/ U.S., Dutch Christian Reformed Church Vital Records, 1856-1970], index and images, incomplete. at Ancestry ($)
*'''1856-1970''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60767/ U.S., Dutch Christian Reformed Church Membership Records, 1856-1970], index and images, incomplete. at Ancestry ($)
=====Episcopal=====
*'''1853-1886''' [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/627965 Church records, 1853-1886, Episcopal Church. Diocese of Iowa] [https://www.familysearch.org/search/film/007842476?i=5&cat=627965 Browse images] at FamilySearch
=====Lutheran=====
*'''1781-1969''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60722/ U.S., Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Church Records, 1781-1969], index and images, incomplete. at Ancestry ($)
*'''1800-1947''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/61584/ U.S., Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Swedish American Church Records, 1800-1947], index and images, incomplete. at Ancestry ($)
*'''1866-1919''' {{RecordSearch|4166196|Iowa, Evangelical Lutheran Church, Vital Records, 1866-1919}} at FamilySearch — [[Iowa, Evangelical Lutheran Church, Vital Records - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images


[http://www.carthage.lib.il.us/community/churches/primbap/FamHist-Iowa.html Church and Family History Research Assistance for Primitive Baptist Churches in Iowa, Wisconsin, and Missouri]  
=====Methodist=====
*[https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/44827 '''''Iowa Churches: A File at the Iowa Wesleyan College in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa''''' (online)] {{FSC|44827|item}} films 956387–417. This file consists of church histories, names of early members, anniversary programs, and newspaper clippings. It is arranged by towns or by the name of the church.
*[https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/43828 '''''Ministerial Biographies: A File in the Iowa Wesleyan College in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa''''' (online)] {{FSC|43828|item}} films 956418–42. These films contain biographies, mainly of Methodist ministers.


=== Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) ===
=====Presbyterian=====
*'''1701-1970''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/61048/ U.S., Presbyterian Church Records, 1701-1970], index and images, incomplete. at Ancestry ($)
=====Quakers=====
*[https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/169094 The William Wade Hinshaw index to Iowa Quaker meeting records] at FamilySearch
*'''1800-1950''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/2891/ U.S., Quaker Cemetery Records, 1800-1990], index and images, at Ancestry ($)


Early church records, for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, for&nbsp;Iowa Wards and Branches can be found on film and are located at the Family History Library in Salt Lake City. The film numbers, for each ward, can be locate through the [https://www.familysearch.org/#form=catalog FamilySearch Catalog]. Or by referring to Register of Genealogical Society Call Numbers. <ref> 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). </ref> These volumes contain the film numbers for many (but not all) membership and temple record films.  
===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.
*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://www.familysearch.org/help/fhcenters/locations/ '''FamilySearch Center'''] near you, and/or by members of supporting organizations. 
*To find records:
:::a. Click on the [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/results?count=20&placeId=51&query=%2Bplace%3A%22United%20States%2C%20Iowa%22 '''records of United States, Iowa'''].
:::b. Click on '''Places within United States, Iowa''' 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, Iowa [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. [[File:FHL icons.png|75px]]. 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.
-----


=== Episcopal Church  ===
===Consult available finding aids.===


[http://iagenweb.org/muscatine/churches/trinitychurch.htm Trinity Episcopal Church], Muscatine IA, has Parish Baptism Records online.  
'''These aids generally provide lists of records that are known to exist and information on their location.'''
*[https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=uc1.b4493862&view=1up&seq=7 '''''Iowa History Reference Guide.'''] Iowa City, Iowa: State Historical Society of Iowa, 1952.''<ref> William John. ''Iowa History Reference Guide. Iowa City, Iowa: State Historical Society of Iowa, 1952.'' {{FSC|164675|item}} 977.7 A3p.</ref>This bibliography includes sections about American Indians, immigration, land, government, courts, military, schools, churches, businesses, history, and biographies. It is arranged by subject and has an index. [https://www.worldcat.org/title/iowa-history-reference-guide/oclc/1510975 '''WorldCat''']
*[https://nabconference.org/nab-heritage-commission/collections/churches-and-their-stories/ '''Churches and Their History'''] North American Baptist Conference.


=== Lutheran  ===
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<div style="width: 100%; float: left">
[[Image:Iowa churches.png|thumb|right|500px]] [http://www.elca.org/ Evangelical Lutheran Church in America]<br>Wartburg Theological Seminary<br>333 Wartburg Place<br>Dubuque, IA 52001<br>Phone: (563) 589-0200 Fax: (563) 589-0333


The Wartburg Theological Seminary has Lutheran records from Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, and upper Michigan. Many of the records in this repository can be borrowed for a small fee. For a list of some of the records, see:
===Iowa Published Church Records===
*[https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/1316260 German immigrants in American church records] [https://www.worldcat.org/title/german-immigrants-in-american-church-records/oclc/63417775 WorldCat]
*[http://www.worldcat.org/title/german-immigrants-in-american-church-records-volume-7-iowa-west-protestant/oclc/772645615 German Immigrants in Western Iowa Protestant Church Records]
*[https://familysearch.org/search/catalog/1316260 German Immigrants in NE Iowa Protestant Church Records]
*[https://www.worldcat.org/title/german-immigrants-in-american-church-records-volume-9-iowa-southeast-protestant/oclc/772650936&referer=brief_results German immigrants in American church records. Volume 9, Iowa southeast Protestant]


*''ALC Congregations on Microfilm.'' <ref>ALC Archives. ''ALC Congregations on Microfilm.'' Dubuque, Iowa: The Archives, [197-?]. {{FHL|269930|item}} 6330690–93. Fiche 6330690 has records from Iowa. </ref>The list is alphabetical by state and then by city.
*''American Lutheran Church Shelf List Index to Their Church Records'' <ref>''American Lutheran Church Shelf List Index to Their Church Records'' ''Microfilmed as of 1987''. N. p., 1988. {{FHL|437527|item}} 973 K2aL.</ref>
*[http://iagenweb.org/muscatine/churches/StPeter.htm St. Peter's Lutheran Church], Montpelier Twp, has Baptism and Death records online.


=== Methodist  ===
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[http://www.iwc.edu/ Iowa Wesleyan College Library]<br>Mt. Pleasant, IA 52641<br>Phone: (319) 385-6317<br>Fax: (319) 385-6324
===Correspond with or visit the actual churches.===
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|'''Letter Writing Guide for Genealogy''']] for help with composing letters.
*Each [[United States Church Records#Searching for Church Records by Denomination|'''denomination page''']] offers an [[United States Church Records#Searching for Church Records by Denomination|'''online address directory of local churches''']] for that denomination.


You can find two of the library’s collections in:
===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.
<br>


*''Iowa Churches: A File at the Iowa Wesleyan College in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa'' <ref>''Iowa Churches: A File at the Iowa Wesleyan College in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa''. Salt Lake City, Utah: Genealogical Society of Utah, 1975. {{FHL|44827|item}} films 956387–417.</ref>This file consists of church histories, anniversary programs, and newspaper clippings. It is arranged by towns or by the name of the church.
<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>
*''Ministerial Biographies: A File in the Iowa Wesleyan College in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa'' <ref>''Ministerial Biographies: A File in the Iowa Wesleyan College in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa''. Salt Lake City, Utah: Genealogical Society of Utah, 1975. {{FHL|43828|item}} films 956418–42. </ref>These films contain biographies, mainly of Methodist ministers.


=== Presbyterian  ===
===Baptist===
*'''1750-1899''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/62267/ U.S., Southern Baptist Church Records, 1750-1899] at Ancestry - index & images ($)
[http://pblib.org/FamHist-Iowa.html '''Church and Family History Research Assistance for Primitive Baptist Churches in Iowa, Wisconsin, and Missouri'''] Click on county.
<br>
[http://www.nabconference.org/ '''North American Baptist Conference Heritage Commission''']<br>2100 South Summit Avenue<br>Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181<br>Phone:(605) 274-2702 or (605) 274-2731<br>
*[https://nabconference.org/nab-heritage-commission/collections/churches-and-their-stories/ '''Churches and Their History''']


[http://www.history.pcusa.org/ The Presbyterian Historical Society]<br>425 Lombard Street<br>Philadelphia, PA 19147<br>Phone: (215) 627-1852<br>Fax: (215) 627-0509
===Lutheran===
<div style="width: 100%; float: left">
[[Image:Iowa churches.png|thumb|right|500px]]
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America<br>
[https://www.wartburgseminary.edu/archives/wartburg-archives/ '''Wartburg Theological Seminary''']<br>333 Wartburg Place<br>Dubuque, IA 52001<br>Phone: (563) 589-0200 Fax: (563) 589-0333


Many of the biographies and church records of this society have been microfilmed. The society and the Family History Library are continuing to collect Iowa Presbyterian church records.  
The Wartburg Theological Seminary has Lutheran records from Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, and upper Michigan. The WTS Archives also contain the documents of the German Lutheran Synod of Iowa, 1854-1930 and the records of antecedent bodies of the ELCA Region 5. Many of the records in this repository can be borrowed for a small fee.


=== The Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ===
*''ALC Congregations on Microfilm.'' ALC Archives. Dubuque, Iowa: The Archives, [197-?]. {{FSC|269930|item}} 6330690–93. Fiche 6330690 has records from Iowa. The list is alphabetical by state and then by city.
*''American Lutheran Church Shelf List Index to Their Church Records'' N. p., 1988. {{FSC|437527|item}} 973 K2aL.
*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.''']]


[http://www.cofchrist.org/library/archives.asp The Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints<br>World Headquarters]<br>P.O. Box 1059<br>Independence, MO 64051<br>Phone: (816) 833-1000<br>Fax: (816) 521-3089
===Methodist===


Records of most Iowa congregations of this church have been microfilmed and are available at the Family History Library.  
[http://www.iwc.edu/ '''Iowa Wesleyan College Library''']<br>Mt. Pleasant, IA 52641<br>Phone: (319) 385-6317<br>Fax: (319) 385-6324


=== Roman Catholic  ===
You can find two of the library’s collections in:


[http://www.davenportdiocese.org/ Diocese of Davenport]<br>2706 N. Gaines Street<br>Davenport, IA 52804<br>Phone: (563) 324-1911<br>Fax: (563) 324-5842
*[https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/44827 '''''Iowa Churches: A File at the Iowa Wesleyan College in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa''''' (online)] {{FSC|44827|item}} films 956387–417. This file consists of church histories, anniversary programs, and newspaper clippings. It is arranged by towns or by the name of the church.
*[https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/43828 '''''Ministerial Biographies: A File in the Iowa Wesleyan College in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa''''' (online)] {{FSC|43828|item}} films 956418–42. These films contain biographies, mainly of Methodist ministers.


The diocese includes the counties of: [[Appanoose County, Iowa Genealogy|Appanoose]], [[Cedar County, Iowa Genealogy|Cedar]], [[Clinton County, Iowa Genealogy|Clinton]], [[Davis County, Iowa Genealogy|Davis]], [[Des Moines County, Iowa Genealogy|Des Moines]], [[Henry County, Iowa Genealogy|Henry]], [[Iowa County, Iowa Genealogy|Iowa]], [[Jasper County, Iowa Genealogy|Jasper]], [[Jefferson County, Iowa Genealogy|Jefferson]], [[Johnson County, Iowa Genealogy|Johnson]], [[Keokuk County, Iowa Genealogy|Keokuk]], [[Lee County, Iowa Genealogy|Lee]], [[Louisa County, Iowa Genealogy|Louisa]], [[Mahaska County, Iowa Genealogy|Mahaska]], [[Marion County, Iowa Genealogy|Marion]], [[Monroe County, Iowa Genealogy|Monroe]], [[Muscatine County, Iowa Genealogy|Muscatine]], [[Poweshiek County, Iowa Genealogy|Poweshiek]], [[Scott County, Iowa Genealogy|Scott]], [[Van Buren County, Iowa Genealogy|Van Buren]], [[Wapello County, Iowa Genealogy|Wapello]] and [[Washington County, Iowa Genealogy|Washington]]
===Roman Catholic===


[http://www.scdiocese.org/ Diocese of Sioux City]<br>1821 Jackson Street<br>Sioux City, IA 51105<br>Phone: (712) 255-7933<br>Fax: (712) 233-7598
[https://davenportdiocese.org/diocesan-archives '''Diocese of Davenport Archives''']<br>2706 N. Gaines Street<br>Davenport, IA 52804<br>Phone: (563) 324-1911<br>Fax: (563) 324-5842
*Requests for sacramental records are to be made to [https://davenportdiocese.org/documents/2016/4/ParishesDirectory.pdf '''the parish where the sacrament was celebrated.'''] Use form below.
::[https://davenportdiocese.org/diocesan-archives '''Sacramental Record Request Form'''] (downloadable)
*To locate sacramental records of parishes that have closed, consult this [https://d2y1pz2y630308.cloudfront.net/13543/documents/2020/9/Sacramental%20Records%20Location%20Closed-Merged%20Parishes%20for%20website%202020-09-14.pdf '''list of closed parishes and location of their records''']
<br>


The diocese includes the counties of: [[Appanoose County, Iowa Genealogy|Appanoose]], [[Cedar County, Iowa Genealogy|Cedar]], [[Clinton County, Iowa Genealogy|Clinton]], [[Davis County, Iowa Genealogy|Davis]], [[Des Moines County, Iowa Genealogy|Des Moines]], [[Henry County, Iowa Genealogy|Henry]], [[Iowa County, Iowa Genealogy|Iowa]], [[Jasper County, Iowa Genealogy|Jasper]], [[Jefferson County, Iowa Genealogy|Jefferson]], [[Johnson County, Iowa Genealogy|Johnson]], [[Keokuk County, Iowa Genealogy|Keokuk]], [[Lee County, Iowa Genealogy|Lee]], [[Louisa County, Iowa Genealogy|Louisa]], [[Mahaska County, Iowa Genealogy|Mahaska]], [[Marion County, Iowa Genealogy|Marion]], [[Monroe County, Iowa Genealogy|Monroe]], [[Muscatine County, Iowa Genealogy|Muscatine]], [[Poweshiek County, Iowa Genealogy|Poweshiek]], [[Scott County, Iowa Genealogy|Scott]], [[Van Buren County, Iowa Genealogy|Van Buren]], [[Wapello County, Iowa Genealogy|Wapello]] and [[Washington County, Iowa Genealogy|Washington]]
----
[https://scdiocese.org/office-of-archives-and-records '''Diocese of Sioux City Office of Archives and Records''']<br>1821 Jackson Street<br>Sioux City, IA 51105<br>Phone: (712) 255-7933<br>Fax: (712) 233-7598
*[https://scdiocese.org/request-for-research-information '''Request for Research Information''']
*To contact the local parish, see: [https://scdiocese.org/parishfinder '''Parish Finder.''']
<br>
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Boone County, Iowa Genealogy|Boone]], [[Buena Vista County, Iowa Genealogy|Buena Vista]], [[Calhoun County, Iowa Genealogy|Calhoun]], [[Carroll County, Iowa Genealogy|Carroll]], [[Cherokee County, Iowa Genealogy|Cherokee]], [[Clay County, Iowa Genealogy|Clay]], [[Crawford County, Iowa Genealogy|Crawford]], [[Dickinson County, Iowa Genealogy|Dickinson]], [[Emmet County, Iowa Genealogy|Emmet]], [[Greene County, Iowa Genealogy|Greene]], [[Humboldt County, Iowa Genealogy|Humboldt]], [[Ida County, Iowa Genealogy|Ida]], [[Kossuth County, Iowa Genealogy|Kossuth]], [[Lyon County, Iowa Genealogy|Lyon]], [[Monona County, Iowa Genealogy|Monona]], [[O'Brien County, Iowa Genealogy|O'Brien]], [[Osceola County, Iowa Genealogy|Osceola]], [[Palo Alto County, Iowa Genealogy|Palo Alto]], [[Plymouth County, Iowa Genealogy|Plymouth]], [[Pocahontas County, Iowa Genealogy|Pocahontas]], [[Sac County, Iowa Genealogy|Sac]], [[Sioux County, Iowa Genealogy|Sioux]], [[Webster County, Iowa Genealogy|Webster]], and [[Woodbury County, Iowa Genealogy|Woodbury]]  
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Boone County, Iowa Genealogy|Boone]], [[Buena Vista County, Iowa Genealogy|Buena Vista]], [[Calhoun County, Iowa Genealogy|Calhoun]], [[Carroll County, Iowa Genealogy|Carroll]], [[Cherokee County, Iowa Genealogy|Cherokee]], [[Clay County, Iowa Genealogy|Clay]], [[Crawford County, Iowa Genealogy|Crawford]], [[Dickinson County, Iowa Genealogy|Dickinson]], [[Emmet County, Iowa Genealogy|Emmet]], [[Greene County, Iowa Genealogy|Greene]], [[Humboldt County, Iowa Genealogy|Humboldt]], [[Ida County, Iowa Genealogy|Ida]], [[Kossuth County, Iowa Genealogy|Kossuth]], [[Lyon County, Iowa Genealogy|Lyon]], [[Monona County, Iowa Genealogy|Monona]], [[O'Brien County, Iowa Genealogy|O'Brien]], [[Osceola County, Iowa Genealogy|Osceola]], [[Palo Alto County, Iowa Genealogy|Palo Alto]], [[Plymouth County, Iowa Genealogy|Plymouth]], [[Pocahontas County, Iowa Genealogy|Pocahontas]], [[Sac County, Iowa Genealogy|Sac]], [[Sioux County, Iowa Genealogy|Sioux]], [[Webster County, Iowa Genealogy|Webster]], and [[Woodbury County, Iowa Genealogy|Woodbury]]  
 
----
[http://www.dmdiocese.org/chancellor-archives.cfm Diocese of Des Moines]<br>610 Grand Avenue<br>Des Moines, IA 50309<br>Phone: (515) 243-7653<br>Fax: (515) 237-5070  
[https://www.dmdiocese.org/resources/administration/archives '''Diocese of Des Moines Archives''']<br>610 Grand Avenue<br>Des Moines, IA 50309<br>Phone: (515) 243-7653<br>Fax: (515) 237-5070  
*First [https://www.dmdiocese.org/worship/parishes-and-mass-times '''contact the parish where the sacrament took place.'''] If you need further help, a link to the Archivist is on [https://www.dmdiocese.org/resources/administration/archives '''this page.''']


The diocese includes the counties of: [[Adair County, Iowa Genealogy|Adair]], [[Adams County, Iowa Genealogy|Adams]], [[Audubon County, Iowa Genealogy|Audubon]], [[Cass County, Iowa Genealogy|Cass]], [[Clarke County, Iowa Genealogy|Clarke]], [[Dallas County, Iowa Genealogy|Dallas]], [[Decatur County, Iowa Genealogy|Decatur]], [[Fremont County, Iowa Genealogy|Fremont]], [[Guthrie County, Iowa Genealogy|Guthrie]], [[Harrison County, Iowa Genealogy|Harrison]], [[Lucas County, Iowa Genealogy|Lucas]], [[Madison County, Iowa Genealogy|Madison]], [[Mills County, Iowa Genealogy|Mills]], [[Montgomery County, Iowa Genealogy|Montgomery]], [[Page County, Iowa Genealogy|Page]], [[Polk County, Iowa Genealogy|Polk]], [[Pottawattamie County, Iowa Genealogy|Pottawattamie]], [[Ringgold County, Iowa Genealogy|Ringgold]], [[Shelby County, Iowa Genealogy|Shelby]], [[Taylor County, Iowa Genealogy|Taylor]], [[Union County, Iowa Genealogy|Union]], [[Warren County, Iowa Genealogy|Warren]] and [[Wayne County, Iowa Genealogy|Wayne]]  
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Adair County, Iowa Genealogy|Adair]], [[Adams County, Iowa Genealogy|Adams]], [[Audubon County, Iowa Genealogy|Audubon]], [[Cass County, Iowa Genealogy|Cass]], [[Clarke County, Iowa Genealogy|Clarke]], [[Dallas County, Iowa Genealogy|Dallas]], [[Decatur County, Iowa Genealogy|Decatur]], [[Fremont County, Iowa Genealogy|Fremont]], [[Guthrie County, Iowa Genealogy|Guthrie]], [[Harrison County, Iowa Genealogy|Harrison]], [[Lucas County, Iowa Genealogy|Lucas]], [[Madison County, Iowa Genealogy|Madison]], [[Mills County, Iowa Genealogy|Mills]], [[Montgomery County, Iowa Genealogy|Montgomery]], [[Page County, Iowa Genealogy|Page]], [[Polk County, Iowa Genealogy|Polk]], [[Pottawattamie County, Iowa Genealogy|Pottawattamie]], [[Ringgold County, Iowa Genealogy|Ringgold]], [[Shelby County, Iowa Genealogy|Shelby]], [[Taylor County, Iowa Genealogy|Taylor]], [[Union County, Iowa Genealogy|Union]], [[Warren County, Iowa Genealogy|Warren]] and [[Wayne County, Iowa Genealogy|Wayne]]  
----
[https://dbqarch.org/archives '''Archdiocese of Dubuque Archives''']<br>Archdiocesan Center<br>1229 Mt Loretta Ave.<br>Dubuque, IA 52004-0479<br>Phone: (563) 556-2580
*Sacramental records (of interest to genealogists & family historians):
::The Archives office maintains a limited collection of sacramental records.
::*Click [https://d2y1pz2y630308.cloudfront.net/23075/documents/2019/8/Sacramental-Records-in-Archives-1.pdf '''here for a list of sacramental records located in the archdiocesan archives'''.] Please note, most sacramental records in the Archdiocese remain at the parish.
::*Click [https://d2y1pz2y630308.cloudfront.net/23075/documents/2019/8/Closed_Parishes_Updated_2016.pdf '''here regarding the location of sacramental records of closed parishes.''']
::*To contact the local parish, consult: [https://dbqarch.org/parishfinder '''Parish Finder.''']
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Allamakee County, Iowa Genealogy|Allamakee]], [[Benton County, Iowa Genealogy|Benton]], [[Black Hawk County, Iowa Genealogy|Black Hawk]], [[Bremer County, Iowa Genealogy|Bremer]], [[Buchanan County, Iowa Genealogy|Buchanan]], [[Butler County, Iowa Genealogy|Butler]], [[Cerro Gordo County, Iowa Genealogy|Cerro Gordo]], [[Chickasaw County, Iowa Genealogy|Chickasaw]], [[Clayton County, Iowa Genealogy|Clayton]], [[Delaware County, Iowa Genealogy|Delaware]], [[Dubuque County, Iowa Genealogy|Dubuque]], [[Fayette County, Iowa Genealogy|Fayette]], [[Floyd County, Iowa Genealogy|Floyd]], [[Franklin County, Iowa Genealogy|Franklin]], [[Grundy County, Iowa Genealogy|Grundy]], [[Hamilton County, Iowa Genealogy|Hamilton]], [[Hancock County, Iowa Genealogy|Hancock]], [[Hardin County, Iowa Genealogy|Hardin]], [[Howard County, Iowa Genealogy|Howard]], [[Jackson County, Iowa Genealogy|Jackson]], [[Jones County, Iowa Genealogy|Jones]], [[Linn County, Iowa Genealogy|Linn]], [[Marshall County, Iowa Genealogy|Marshall]], [[Mitchell County, Iowa Genealogy|Mitchell]], [[Story County, Iowa Genealogy|Story]], [[Tama County, Iowa Genealogy|Tama]], [[Winnebago County, Iowa Genealogy|Winnebago]], [[Winneshiek County, Iowa Genealogy|Winneshiek]], [[Worth County, Iowa Genealogy|Worth]], and [[Wright County, Iowa Genealogy|Wright]]
----


[http://www.arch.pvt.k12.ia.us/Archives/index.html Archdiocese of Dubuque]<br>Archdiocesan Center<br>1229 Mt Loretta Ave.<br>Dubuque, IA 52004-0479<br>Phone: (563) 556-2580
===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.  
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Allamakee County, Iowa Genealogy|Allamakee]], [[Benton County, Iowa Genealogy|Benton]], [[Black Hawk County, Iowa Genealogy|Black Hawk]], [[Bremer County, Iowa Genealogy|Bremer]], [[Buchanan County, Iowa Genealogy|Buchanan]], [[Butler County, Iowa Genealogy|Butler]], [[Cerro Gordo County, Iowa Genealogy|Cerro Gordo]], [[Chickasaw County, Iowa Genealogy|Chickasaw]], [[Clayton County, Iowa Genealogy|Clayton]], [[Delaware County, Iowa Genealogy|Delaware]], [[Dubuque County, Iowa Genealogy|Dubuque]], [[Fayette County, Iowa Genealogy|Fayette]], [[Floyd County, Iowa Genealogy|Floyd]], [[Franklin County, Iowa Genealogy|Franklin]], [[Grundy County, Iowa Genealogy|Grundy]], [[Hamilton County, Iowa Genealogy|Hamilton]], [[Hancock County, Iowa Genealogy|Hancock]], [[Hardin County, Iowa Genealogy|Hardin]], [[Howard County, Iowa Genealogy|Howard]], [[Jackson County, Iowa Genealogy|Jackson]], [[Jones County, Iowa Genealogy|Jones]], [[Linn County, Iowa Genealogy|Linn]], [[Marshall County, Iowa Genealogy|Marshall]], [[Mitchell County, Iowa Genealogy|Mitchell]], [[Story County, Iowa Genealogy|Story]], [[Tama County, Iowa Genealogy|Tama]], [[Winnebago County, Iowa Genealogy|Winnebago]], [[Winneshiek County, Iowa Genealogy|Winneshiek]], [[Worth County, Iowa Genealogy|Worth]], and [[Wright County, Iowa Genealogy|Wright]]
 
=== Society of Friends (Quaker)  ===
 
[http://www.swarthmore.edu/x6672.xml Friends Historical Library<br>Swarthmore College]<br>500 College Avenue<br>Swarthmore, PA 19081<br>Phone: (610) 328-8496<br>Fax: (610) 328-7329
 
[http://www.haverford.edu/library/ Magill Library<br>Haverford College]<br>Haverford, PA 19041-1392<br>Phone: (610) 896-1161<br>Fax: (610) 896-1102
 
Two collections of the Iowa Society of Friends records are:
 
*''Index to Iowa Quaker Meeting Records'' <ref>Hinshaw, William Wade. ''Index to Iowa Quaker Meeting Records''. 11 vols. N.p., 19--? {{FHL|169094|item}} book 977.7 K28h; films 924025–27; fiche 6051154.</ref>
*''The William Wade Hinshaw Index to Quaker Meeting Records in the Friends Library in Swarthmore College, Pennsylvania.'' <ref>Hinshaw, William Wade. ''The William Wade Hinshaw Index to Quaker Meeting Records in the Friends Library in Swarthmore College, Pennsylvania.'' Salt Lake City, Utah: Genealogical Society of Utah, 1957. {{FHL|357909|item}} films 002146–213, and 175409–13 and {{FHL|357909|item}} film 002148.</ref>has an index to surnames and indicates in which monthly meetings those surnames are found. These microfilms contain records of many Iowa monthly meetings.
 
'''Websites for Quaker Genealogy Helps:'''
 
*[http://www.earlham.edu/~libr/content/friends/obituaries/index.html American Friend Obituary Index]
*[http://www.swarthmore.edu/fhl.xml Friends Historical Library]
*[http://sites.rootsweb.com/~quakers/index.htm The Quaker Corner]
*[http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Plains/2064/qresource.htm The Quaker Research Guide]
 
==== Iowa Published Church Records  ====
 
Periodicals have published records of many Iowa churches. These are referenced in the PERiodical Source Index (PERSI) described in the "[[Iowa Periodicals|Periodicals]]" page. Many denominations have collected and stored their records in central repositories. You can write to the following addresses to learn where their records are located:<br>
 
=== Family History Library  ===
 
The Family History Library has: While the majority of church records remain with the local churches, the [[FamilySearch Catalog Title Search|Family History Library]], and [http://www.iowahistory.org/library/index.html Iowa Historical Society Library], have copies of local records from some churches. See ''A Guide to Manuscripts at the Iowa Historical Society'', described in [[Iowa Archives and Libraries|Iowa Archives and Libraries]].
 
Many of the local church records available at the[https://www.familysearch.org/#form=catalog FamilySearch Catalog] have been microfilmed at various archives and libraries.
 
Use the Keyword Search feature on catalog drop down menu of the [https://www.familysearch.org/#form=catalog%7C FamilySearch Catalog] to find more records under:
 
::IOWA, [COUNTY], [TOWN] - CHURCH RECORDS
 
While no listing of Family History Library films by repository is available, the [https://www.familysearch.org/#form=catalog FamilySearch Catalog] identifies when and where each record was microfilmed. Example: {{FHL|iowa churches|keywords|disp=Family History Library List of Iowa Churches}}
 
*Records of churches, including Catholic, Presbyterian and the Society of Friends (see the [[FamilySearch Catalog Title Search|FamilySearch Catalog]]).
*Histories of denominations in Iowa, including Mennonite, Congregational, Quaker, Catholic, Baptist, Lutheran, Presbyterian, and Methodist-Episcopal.


A useful list of books and articles about the various religious groups of Iowa is found on pages 116–125 in:  
==Next, go to the Wiki article for your ancestors' denomination. ==
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}}
<br>


*''Iowa History Reference Guide. Iowa City, Iowa: State Historical Society of Iowa, 1952.''<ref> William John. ''Iowa History Reference Guide. Iowa City, Iowa: State Historical Society of Iowa, 1952.'' {{FHL|164675|item}} 977.7 A3p.</ref>This bibliography includes sections about American Indians, immigration, land, government, courts, military, schools, churches, businesses, history, and biographies. It is arranged by subject and has an index.
==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>


=== Websites  ===
[[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'''.]]


Various websites identify churches in Iowa:


*[http://www.flockfinder.com/churches_in_iowa.jsp Flock Finder]
*[http://www.churchangel.com/iowa.htm Iowa Churches]
*[http://www.usachurches.org/church-in-ia.htm Iowa Church Directory]


=== Sources and Footnotes  ===
==References==


<references />  
<references />  
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{{Iowa|Iowa}} {{USChurch}}  
{{Iowa|Iowa}} {{USChurch}}  
{{-}}</div>  
{{-}}</div>  
[[Category:Iowa, United States|Church]] [[Category:U_S_States_Church_records]]
[[Category:Iowa, United States|Church]]  
[[Category:U_S_States_Church_records]]

Latest revision as of 17:15, 12 April 2024

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


Historical Background[edit | edit source]

Before 1900, the largest religious groups were the Roman Catholic, Methodist, Presbyterian, Lutheran churches along with The Society of Friends (Quakers) and other small groups were also early settlers. [1][2][3]

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]


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!





Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints[edit | edit source]
Dutch Reformed[edit | edit source]
Episcopal[edit | edit source]
Lutheran[edit | edit source]
Methodist[edit | edit source]
Presbyterian[edit | edit source]
Quakers[edit | edit source]

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

FamilySearch Library
Salt Lake City, Utah
  • The 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.
  • 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 FamilySearch Center near you, and/or by members of supporting organizations.
  • To find records:
a. Click on the records of United States, Iowa.
b. Click on Places within United States, Iowa 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, Iowa [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.

  • Iowa History Reference Guide. Iowa City, Iowa: State Historical Society of Iowa, 1952.[4]This bibliography includes sections about American Indians, immigration, land, government, courts, military, schools, churches, businesses, history, and biographies. It is arranged by subject and has an index. WorldCat
  • Churches and Their History North American Baptist Conference.

Iowa Published Church Records[edit | edit source]


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.

Here you will find archive information unique to the state. Many more archives are kept by denomination. For denominational archives, go to Searching for Church Records by Denomination.

Baptist[edit | edit source]

Church and Family History Research Assistance for Primitive Baptist Churches in Iowa, Wisconsin, and Missouri Click on county.
North American Baptist Conference Heritage Commission
2100 South Summit Avenue
Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
Phone:(605) 274-2702 or (605) 274-2731

Lutheran[edit | edit source]

Iowa churches.png

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Wartburg Theological Seminary
333 Wartburg Place
Dubuque, IA 52001
Phone: (563) 589-0200 Fax: (563) 589-0333

The Wartburg Theological Seminary has Lutheran records from Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, and upper Michigan. The WTS Archives also contain the documents of the German Lutheran Synod of Iowa, 1854-1930 and the records of antecedent bodies of the ELCA Region 5. Many of the records in this repository can be borrowed for a small fee.

  • ALC Congregations on Microfilm. ALC Archives. Dubuque, Iowa: The Archives, [197-?]. FS Library Collection 6330690–93. Fiche 6330690 has records from Iowa. The list is alphabetical by state and then by city.
  • American Lutheran Church Shelf List Index to Their Church Records N. p., 1988. FS Library Collection 973 K2aL.
  • Archives hold records for closed churches. For open churches write directly to the local church.

Methodist[edit | edit source]

Iowa Wesleyan College Library
Mt. Pleasant, IA 52641
Phone: (319) 385-6317
Fax: (319) 385-6324

You can find two of the library’s collections in:

Roman Catholic[edit | edit source]

Diocese of Davenport Archives
2706 N. Gaines Street
Davenport, IA 52804
Phone: (563) 324-1911
Fax: (563) 324-5842

Sacramental Record Request Form (downloadable)


The diocese includes the counties of: Appanoose, Cedar, Clinton, Davis, Des Moines, Henry, Iowa, Jasper, Jefferson, Johnson, Keokuk, Lee, Louisa, Mahaska, Marion, Monroe, Muscatine, Poweshiek, Scott, Van Buren, Wapello and Washington

Diocese of Sioux City Office of Archives and Records
1821 Jackson Street
Sioux City, IA 51105
Phone: (712) 255-7933
Fax: (712) 233-7598


The diocese includes the counties of: Boone, Buena Vista, Calhoun, Carroll, Cherokee, Clay, Crawford, Dickinson, Emmet, Greene, Humboldt, Ida, Kossuth, Lyon, Monona, O'Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Pocahontas, Sac, Sioux, Webster, and Woodbury

Diocese of Des Moines Archives
610 Grand Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: (515) 243-7653
Fax: (515) 237-5070

The diocese includes the counties of: Adair, Adams, Audubon, Cass, Clarke, Dallas, Decatur, Fremont, Guthrie, Harrison, Lucas, Madison, Mills, Montgomery, Page, Polk, Pottawattamie, Ringgold, Shelby, Taylor, Union, Warren and Wayne

Archdiocese of Dubuque Archives
Archdiocesan Center
1229 Mt Loretta Ave.
Dubuque, IA 52004-0479
Phone: (563) 556-2580

  • Sacramental records (of interest to genealogists & family historians):
The Archives office maintains a limited collection of sacramental records.

The diocese includes the counties of: Allamakee, Benton, Black Hawk, Bremer, Buchanan, Butler, Cerro Gordo, Chickasaw, Clayton, Delaware, Dubuque, Fayette, Floyd, Franklin, Grundy, Hamilton, Hancock, Hardin, Howard, Jackson, Jones, Linn, Marshall, Mitchell, Story, Tama, Winnebago, Winneshiek, Worth, and Wright

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.

Next, go to the Wiki article for your ancestors' denomination.[edit | edit source]

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.

Major U.S. Religious Denominations



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.


References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Iowa Religions
  2. ↑ Iowa History Standards and Benchmarks
  3. ↑ Brief History of Iowa Yearly Meeting of Friends
  4. ↑ William John. Iowa History Reference Guide. Iowa City, Iowa: State Historical Society of Iowa, 1952. FS Library Collection 977.7 A3p.
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
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v • d• e
Links to U.S. Religion Records-related articles
Major
Religion
Adventist · Amish · Anabaptist · Apostolic Christian · Armenian Catholic · Armenian Evangelical · Armenian Orthodox · Assemblies of God · Baháʼí · Baptist · Catholic Apostolic · Brethren · Buddhist · Community of Christ · Confucianism · Congregational · Coptic Orthodox · Disciples of Christ · Dutch Reformed · Episcopal · German Reformed · Greek Orthodox · Hinduism · Huguenot · Hutterites · Jehovah's Witnesses · Jewish · The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon) · Lutheran · Maronite Catholic Church · Melkite Greek Catholic Methodist · Mennonite · Moravian · Muslim · Orthodox Church in America (OCA) · Pentecostal · Presbyterian · Schwenkfelders · Serbian Orthodox · Roman Catholic · Russian Orthodox · Society of Friends (Quaker) · Ukrainian Orthodox · United Brethren in Christ · United Church of Christ · Unitarian/Universalist
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