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Texas Church Records: Difference between revisions

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Before 1900 the largest religious groups in Texas were the Baptist, Methodist Episcopal, Roman Catholic, and Christian (Disciples of Christ).
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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==
<div style="width: 100%">
[[Image:Texas church records.png|thumb|right|500px]]</div>
Before 1900, the largest religious groups in [[Texas Genealogy|Texas]] were the Baptist, Methodist Episcopal, Presbyterians, and Roman Catholics.<ref>William Chamberlin Hunt and United States Bureau of the Census, ''Religious Bodies: 1906'' (Washington, D.C.: Government Printing Office, 1910), Vol. 1:355-364. Digital version at [http://books.google.com/books?id=Z6ZdiZWeStAC Google Books].</ref> <br><br>


The Family History Library has some church records for Texas. For example, the library has microfilm copies of original documents from the Catholic archives in El Paso, Galveston, and San Antonio. The records from the San Antonio archdiocese include 100 microfilms for the city of San Antonio for the years 1703 to 1957.
==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:
{|
|-
|style="vertical-align:top; padding-right:30px"|
*[[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]]
|style="vertical-align:top; padding-right:30px"|
*[[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]]
|style="vertical-align:top; padding-right:30px"|
*[[What Can I Find in U.S. Church Records?#Minutes or Historical Narrative|Minutes or Historical Narrative]]
|}


Many denominations have collected their records into central repositories. You can write to the following addresses to learn where their records are located.
==Finding the Records==
===Look for online records.===


=== Baptist ===
<br>


'''Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary'''<br>A. Webb Roberts Library <br>2001 West Seminary Drive <br>Fort Worth, TX 76122 <br>Telephone: 817-923-1921 (x3330) <br>Fax: 817-921-8754 <br>Internet: http://www.swbts.edu/libraries/
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[[File:Caution sign.png|70px]]
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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!
|}
----
====FamilySearch====
*[https://www.familysearch.org/search/collection/2790180 Texas, Church Records, 1852-1994] - index and images, very incomplete
*'''1840-1981''' {{RecordSearch|1681015|Texas, Births and Christenings, 1840-1981}} at FamilySearch - [[Texas Births and Christenings - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; Index only.
*'''1837-1973''' {{RecordSearch|1681052|Texas, Marriages, 1837-1973}} at FamilySearch - [[Texas Marriages - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; Index only.
*'''1903-1973''' {{RecordSearch|1681049|Texas, Deaths and Burials, 1903-1973}} at FamilySearch - [[Texas Deaths and Burials - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; Index only.


'''Baylor University'''<br>Moody Memorial Library <br>Box 6307 <br>Waco, TX 76703<br>Telephone: 254-710-2111 <br>Fax: 254-710-3116 <br>Internet: http://www3.baylor.edu/Library/LibDepts/MMLandJones/MMLandJones.html
====Dutch Reformed====
*'''1856-1970''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60524/ U.S., Dutch Christian Reformed Church Vital Records, 1856-1970], index and images, incomplete.($)
*'''1856-1970''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60767/ U.S., Dutch Christian Reformed Church Membership Records, 1856-1970], index and images, incomplete.($)


For a history of the Baptists in Texas, see James M. Carroll, ''A History of Texas Baptists'' (Dallas, Texas: Baptist Standard Publishing Co., 1923; FHL film 1000597).
====Episcopal====
*[https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/1156203 Episcopal Diocese of Arizona church records : jurisdiction of New Mexico and Arizona, 1889-1971]
====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.($)


=== Disciples of Christ ===
====Methodist====
*[http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=8974 New Mexico and Texas, Select United Methodist Church Records, 1870-1970] ($)


Brite Divinity School Collection <br>Mary Couts Burnett Library <br>Texas Christian University <br>2913 West Lowden <br>Fort Worth, TX 76129 <br>Telephone: 817-921-7117 <br>Fax: 817-921-7447 <br>Internet: http://lib.tcu.edu/www/default.asp
====Presbyterian====
*'''1701-1970''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/61048/ U.S., Presbyterian Church Records, 1701-1970], index and images, incomplete.($)


=== Methodist ===
====Roman Catholic====
*'''1700-1996''' [http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=61845&_gl=1*ud4cbs*_ga*NzY4NTI3NzcyLjE2NTE1MjY4NTk.*_ga_4QT8FMEX30*MTY2NDU1NDYxMy44MS4xLjE2NjQ1NTUyMDguMC4wLjA. Texas, U.S., Roman Catholic Archdiocese of San Antonio Sacramental Records, 1700-1996] at Ancestry - index & images ($)


Center for Methodist Studies <br>United Methodist Historical Collection <br>Bridwell Library <br>Southern Methodist University <br>6005 Bishop Boulevard <br>P.O. Box 750476 <br>Dallas, TX 75275 <br>Internet: http://www.smu.edu/bridwell/methodiststudies/methodiststudies.htm
===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=26&query=%2Bplace%3A%22United%20States%2C%20Texas%22 '''records of United States, Texas'''].
:::b. Click on '''Places within United States, Texas''' 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, Texas [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.
-----


For a history of the Methodist Church, see Macum Phelan, ''History of Early Methodism in Texas, 1817-1866'' (Nashville, Tennessee: Cokesbury Press, 1924; FHL film 599530).
===Consult available finding aids.===


=== Roman Catholic ===
'''These aids generally provide lists of records that are known to exist and information on their location.'''
For a history of the Baptists in Texas, see:
*[https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/478257-redirection '''''A History of Texas Baptists.'''''], Carroll, James M.  2 vols. Dallas, Texas: Baptist Standard Publishing Co., 1923.
For a history of the Catholic Church, see:
*Fitzmorris, Mary Angela. [https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015014711637&view=1up&seq=5 '''''Four Decades of Catholicism in Texas 1820-1860.'''] ''Washington, D.C.: Catholic University of America, 1926.
For a history of the Methodist Church, see:
*[https://www.archive.org/details/MN5075ucmf_0  '''''History of Early Methodism in Texas, 1817-1866.'''''] Phelan, Macum. Nashville, Tenn.: Cokesbury Press, 1924.
----


Catholic Archives of Texas <br>1600 North Congress <br>Capitol Station P.O. Box 13327 <br>Austin, TX 78711-3327 <br>Telephone: 512-476-4888 <br>Fax: 512-469-9537 <br>Internet: http://www.onr.com/user/cat/
===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.


For a history of the Catholic Church, see Mary Angela Fitzmorris, ''Four Decades of Catholicism in Texas 1820-1860'' (Washington, D.C.: Catholic University of America, 1926; FHL book 976.4 A1 no. 21; film 924684 item 3).
===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>
<br>
<span style="color:DarkViolet">'''Here you will find archive information unique to the state. Many more archives are kept by denomination. For denominational  archives, go to  [[United States Church Records#Searching for Church Records by Denomination|'''Searching for Church Records by Denomination.''']]</span>
====State Archives====
[https://www.tsl.texas.gov/contact '''Texas State Library and Archives Commission''']<br>
Lorenzo de Zavala State Archives and Library Building<br>
Physical address: 1201 Brazos St., Austin, TX 78701<br>
Mailing address: P.O. Box 12927, Austin, TX 78711-2927<br>
Phone: (512) 463-5455<br>
E-mail: info@tsl.texas.gov<br>
*[https://www.tsl.texas.gov/arc/genfirst.html '''Genealogy Resources''']
*[https://tsla.sirsi.net/uhtbin/cgisirsi/?ps=CMu6tnVwIx/TSLAC/X/60/1180/X '''Library Catalog''']


[[Category:Texas]]<br>
====University Archives====
[https://www.cah.utexas.edu/research/index.php '''The Dolph Briscoe Center for American History''']<br>
The University of Texas at Austin<br>
2300 Red River St. Stop D1100<br>
Austin TX, 78712-1426<br>
*[https://www.cah.utexas.edu/documents/subject_guides/genealogy.pdf '''Resources for Genealogy Research''']
----
 
====Baptist====
*'''1750-1899''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/62267/ U.S., Southern Baptist Church Records, 1750-1899] at Ancestry - index & images ($)
[http://www.swbts.edu/libraries '''Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary''']<br>A. Webb Roberts Library <br>2001 West Seminary Drive <br>Fort Worth, TX 76122 <br>Phone: (817) 923-1921 (x3330) <br>Fax: (817) 921-8754
*[https://libraries.swbts.edu/node/2063 '''Search the Catalog''']
----
'''Baylor University'''<br>[http://www.baylor.edu/lib/centrallib/ '''Moody Memorial Library'''] <br>Box 6307 <br>Waco, TX 76703<br>Phone: (254) 710-2111 <br>Fax: (254) 710-3116
*[https://digitalcollections-baylor.quartexcollections.com/special-libraries-collections/baptist-and-religious-collections '''Baptist and Religious Collection''']
----
'''[https://texasbaptists.org/ministries/texas-baptist-historical-collection Texas Baptist Historical Collection]'''<br>209 N. 8th Street<br>Waco, TX 76701<br>Phone: (254) 754-9446
----
[https://library.samford.edu/ '''Samford University Library''']<br>
800 Lakeshore Drive<br>
Birmingham, AL 35229<br>
<br>
Telephone:205-726-2196<br>
E-mail: referenc@samford.edu<br>
*[https://library3.samford.edu/search~S27/?searchtype=Y&searcharg=church+records&searchscope=27&m=&SORT=D '''Catalog of church records in Samford University libraries''']
----
 
====Disciples of Christ====
 
Brite Divinity School Collection <br>[http://www.library.tcu.edu/ '''Mary Couts Burnett Library'''] <br>Texas Christian University <br>2913 West Lowden <br>Fort Worth, TX 76129 <br>Phone: (817) 921-7117 <br>Fax: (817) 921-7447
*[http://www.library.tcu.edu/ '''Search Engine''']
----
 
====Lutheran====
[https://www.swtsynod.org/pages/archives '''ELCA Region4-South Archives''']<br>
1090 Oestreich Dr.<br>
Seguin, TX 78155<br>
 
Phone:(830) 379-9900<br>
E-mail: archives@swtsynod.org<br>
*Archives hold records for '''closed churches.'''  '''For open churches write directly to [[Lutheran Church in the United States#Correspond with or visit the actual churches.|the local church.''']]
----
====Methodist====
[https://www.smu.edu/Bridwell/SpecialCollectionsandArchives/CenterforMethodistStudies '''Center for Methodist Studies'''] <br>United Methodist Historical Collection <br>Bridwell Library <br>Southern Methodist University <br>6005 Bishop Boulevard <br>P.O. Box 750476 <br>Dallas, TX 75275
*[https://www.smu.edu/Bridwell/Find/MethodistMaterials '''Methodist Materials''']
*[https://smu.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/discovery/search?sortby=rank&vid=01SMU_INST:01SMU&lang=en&mode=advanced '''Collection Catalog''']
----
 
====Presbyterian====
[https://www.austinseminary.edu/ '''Presbyterian Theological Seminary Archives''']<br>100 E. 27th St.<br>Austin, TX 78705<br>
*[https://www.austinseminary.edu/library '''Library''']
*[https://resources.finalsite.net/images/v1576611613/austin/lgjy7qucjar99j2e2aro/congregational_records.pdf '''Inventory of the Congregation History Collection'''] Not alphabetical. Use your computer "Find" feature.
----
 
====Roman Catholic====
[https://txcatholic.org/catholic-archives-of-texas/ '''Catholic Archives of Texas''']<br>
6225 E Hwy 290<br>
Austin, TX 78723<br>
Phone: 512-476-6296<br>
*[https://txcatholic.org/archives/ '''Research Guidelines''']
::"Due to the high volume of records requests, we are no longer accepting requests for genealogical purposes. Our records up to and including the year 1940 are open for that purpose. We welcome individuals willing to research genealogical records yourself. " Accessed 20 July 2020.
----
[https://amarillodiocese.org/ '''Diocese of Amarillo''']<br>4512 NE 24th Amarillo, TX 79107<br>P.O. Box 5644<br>Amarillo, TX 79117<br>Phone:806-383-2243<br>Fax 806-383-8452
*[https://amarillodiocese.org/museum-archives '''Sacramental Records'''] "Request Form for Records" is in the left sidebar.<br>
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Armstrong County, Texas Genealogy|Armstrong]], [[Briscoe County, Texas Genealogy|Briscoe]], [[Carson County, Texas Genealogy|Carson]], [[Castro County, Texas Genealogy|Castro]], [[Childress County, Texas Genealogy|Childress]], [[Collingsworth County, Texas Genealogy|Collingsworth]], [[Dallam County, Texas Genealogy|Dallam]], [[Deaf Smith County, Texas Genealogy|Deaf Smith]], [[Donley County, Texas Genealogy|Donley]], [[Gray County, Texas Genealogy|Gray]], [[Hall County, Texas Genealogy|Hall]], [[Hansford County, Texas Genealogy|Hansford]], [[Hartley County, Texas Genealogy|Hartley]], [[Hemphill County, Texas Genealogy|Hemphill]], [[Hutchinson County, Texas Genealogy|Hutchinson]], [[Lipscomb County, Texas Genealogy|Lipscomb]], [[Moore County, Texas Genealogy|Moore]], [[Ochiltree County, Texas Genealogy|Ochiltree]], [[Oldham County, Texas Genealogy|Oldham]], [[Parmer County, Texas Genealogy|Parmer]], [[Potter County, Texas Genealogy|Potter]], [[Randall County, Texas Genealogy|Randall]], [[Roberts County, Texas Genealogy|Roberts]], [[Sherman County, Texas Genealogy|Sherman]], [[Swisher County, Texas Genealogy|Swisher]] and [[Wheeler County, Texas Genealogy|Wheeler]].<ref name="rome">[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Catholic_dioceses_in_the_United_States List of the Catholic Dioceses in the United States of America].</ref>
----
[http://www.austindiocese.org/ '''Diocese of Austin''']<br>6225 Highway 290 East<br>Austin, TX 78723-1025<br>Phone: (512) 949-2400
*[https://austindiocese.org/archives '''Archives''']<br>
*Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. Complete and [https://d2y1pz2y630308.cloudfront.net/16495/documents/2019/11/Sacramental%20Record%20Request%20Form%2020191106.pdf '''submit this form'''] to the parish. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the [https://www.austindiocese.org/parishfinder '''Parish Locator.''']<br>
*Early sacramental records are on microfilm at the [https://txcatholic.org/catholic-archives-of-texas/ '''Catholic Archives of Texas.''']<br>
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Bastrop County, Texas Genealogy|Bastrop]], [[Bell County, Texas Genealogy|Bell]], [[Blanco County, Texas Genealogy|Blanco]], [[Brazos County, Texas Genealogy|Brazos]], [[Burleson County, Texas Genealogy|Burleson]], [[Burnet County, Texas Genealogy|Burnet]], [[Caldwell County, Texas Genealogy|Caldwell]], [[Coryell County, Texas Genealogy|Coryell]], [[Falls County, Texas Genealogy|Falls]], [[Fayette County, Texas Genealogy|Fayette]], [[Hamilton County, Texas Genealogy|Hamilton]], [[Hays County, Texas Genealogy|Hays]], [[Lampasas County, Texas Genealogy|Lampasas]], [[Lee County, Texas Genealogy|Lee]], [[Limestone County, Texas Genealogy|Limestone]], [[Llano County, Texas Genealogy|Llano]], [[Mason County, Texas Genealogy|Mason]], [[McLennan County, Texas Genealogy|McLennan]], [[Milam County, Texas Genealogy|Milam]], [[Mills County, Texas Genealogy|Mills]], [[Robertson County, Texas Genealogy|Robertson]], [[San Saba County, Texas Genealogy|San Saba]], [[Travis County, Texas Genealogy|Travis]], [[Washington County, Texas Genealogy|Washington]] and [[Williamson County, Texas Genealogy|Williamson]]<ref name="rome" />
----
[http://www.dioceseofbmt.org/ '''Diocese of Beaumont''']<br>P.O. Box 3948<br>Beaumont, TX 77704-3948<br>Phone: (409) 924-4300
*Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the [https://www.dioceseofbmt.org/parishes-of-the-diocese/ '''Parish List.''']<br>
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Chambers County, Texas Genealogy|Chambers]], [[Hardin County, Texas Genealogy|Hardin]], [[Jasper County, Texas Genealogy|Jasper]], [[Jefferson County, Texas Genealogy|Jefferson]], [[Liberty County, Texas Genealogy|Liberty]], [[Newton County, Texas Genealogy|Newton]], [[Orange County, Texas Genealogy|Orange]], [[Polk County, Texas Genealogy|Polk]] and [[Tyler County, Texas Genealogy|Tyler]]<ref name="rome" />
----
[http://www.cdob.org/chancellor/ '''Diocese of Brownsville''']<br>1910 University Blvd.<br>Brownsville, TX 78520<br>Phone: (956) 550-1517
*Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the [https://www.cdob.org/parishes-directory/ '''Parish Directory.''']
*Early sacramental records are on microfilm at the [https://txcatholic.org/catholic-archives-of-texas/ '''Catholic Archives of Texas.''']<br>
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Cameron County, Texas Genealogy|Cameron]], [[Hidalgo County, Texas Genealogy|Hidalgo]], [[Starr County, Texas Genealogy|Starr]] and [[Willacy County, Texas Genealogy|Willacy]]<ref name="rome" />
----
[http://www.diocesecc.org/ '''Diocese of Corpus Christi''']<br>620 Lipan<br>Corpus Christi, TX 78401<br>Phone: (361) 693-6726
*Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the [https://diocesecc.org/parishfinder/ '''Find a Parish.''']
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Aransas County, Texas Genealogy|Aransas]], [[Bee County, Texas Genealogy|Bee]], [[Brooks County, Texas Genealogy|Brooks]], [[Duval County, Texas Genealogy|Duval]], [[Jim Wells County, Texas Genealogy|Jim Wells]], [[Kenedy County, Texas Genealogy|Kenedy]], [[Kleberg County, Texas Genealogy|Kleberg]], [[Live Oak County, Texas Genealogy|Live Oak]], [[McMullen County, Texas Genealogy|McMullen]], [[Nueces County, Texas Genealogy|Nueces]], [[Refugio County, Texas Genealogy|Refugio]] and [[San Patricio County, Texas Genealogy|San Patricio]]<ref name="rome" />
----
[https://www.cathdal.org/ '''Diocese of Dallas''']<br>3725 Blackburn St.<br>Dallas, TX 75219<br>Phone: (214) 528-2240
*Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the [https://www.cathdal.org/parishfinder '''Find a Parish.''']
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Collin County, Texas Genealogy|Collin]], [[Dallas County, Texas Genealogy|Dallas]], [[Ellis County, Texas Genealogy|Ellis]], [[Fannin County, Texas Genealogy|Fannin]], [[Grayson County, Texas Genealogy|Grayson]], [[Hunt County, Texas Genealogy|Hunt]], [[Kaufman County, Texas Genealogy|Kaufman]], [[Navarro County, Texas Genealogy|Navarro]] and [[Rockwall County, Texas Genealogy|Rockwell]]<ref name="rome" />
----
[http://www.elpasodiocese.org/ '''Diocese of El Paso''']<br>499 St. Matthews St.<br>El Paso, TX 79907<br>Phone: (915) 872-8400
*Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the [https://www.elpasodiocese.org/parishes.html '''Parish List.''']
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Brewster County, Texas Genealogy|Brewster]], [[Culberson County, Texas Genealogy|Culberson]], [[El Paso County, Texas Genealogy|El Paso]], [[Hudspeth County, Texas Genealogy|Hudspeth]], [[Jeff Davis County, Texas Genealogy|Jeff Davis]], [[Loving County, Texas Genealogy|Loving]], [[Presidio County, Texas Genealogy|Presidio]], [[Reeves County, Texas Genealogy|Reeves]], [[Ward County, Texas Genealogy|Ward]] and [[Winkler County, Texas Genealogy|Winkler]]<ref name="rome" />
----
[https://fwdioc.org/ '''Diocese of Ft. Worth''']<br>800 West Loop 820 South<br>Fort Worth, TX 76108<br>Phone: (817) 560-330
*Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the [https://fwdioc.org/parish-finder '''Parish Finder.''']
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Archer County, Texas Genealogy|Archer]], [[Baylor County, Texas Genealogy|Baylor]], [[Bosque County, Texas Genealogy|Bosque]], [[Clay County, Texas Genealogy|Clay]], [[Comanche County, Texas Genealogy|Comanche]], [[Cooke County, Texas Genealogy|Cooke]], [[Denton County, Texas Genealogy|Denton]], [[Eastland County, Texas Genealogy|Eastland]], [[Erath County, Texas Genealogy|Erath]], [[Foard County, Texas Genealogy|Foard]], [[Hardeman County, Texas Genealogy|Hardeman]], [[Hill County, Texas Genealogy|Hill]], [[Hood County, Texas Genealogy|Hood]], [[Jack County, Texas Genealogy|Jack]], [[Johnson County, Texas Genealogy|Johnson]], [[Knox County, Texas Genealogy|Knox]], [[Montague County, Texas Genealogy|Montague]], [[Palo Pinto County, Texas Genealogy|Palo Pinto]], [[Parker County, Texas Genealogy|Parker]], [[Shackelford County, Texas Genealogy|Shackelford]], [[Somervell County, Texas Genealogy|Somervell]], [[Stephens County, Texas Genealogy|Stephens]], [[Tarrant County, Texas Genealogy|Tarrant]], [[Throckmorton County, Texas Genealogy|Throckmorton]], [[Wichita County, Texas Genealogy|Wichita]], [[Wilbarger County, Texas Genealogy|Wilbarger]] and [[Wise County, Texas Genealogy|Wise]]<ref name="rome" />
----
[https://www.archgh.org/ '''Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston Archives''']<br>Mail: P.O. Box 907<br>Houston, TX 77001
Physical address:Downtown Chancery<br>
1700 San Jacinto<br>
Houston, TX 77002<br>Phone: (713)-652-8283
*[https://www.archgh.org/offices-ministries/administration/archives-records/ '''Archives and Records''']
*Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the [https://www.archgh.org/parishes/parish-search/ '''Parish Search.''']
*'''Genealogy:''' 'Though the Catholic Church has been active in Texas since the 1500s, we have no sacramental records before 1840. While the Archdiocese of Galveston originally included all of Texas, our records cover only the present Archdiocese, as well as some parishes now in the Dioceses of Beaumont, Tyler, and Victoria. These records are open to researchers up to 1920. After 1920, the records are closed except to the person(s) named in the record, and proof of identity must be provided before we will issue a certificate. We do not provide sacramental certificates to genealogists, but we will provide copies of the records (if possible) or transcripts. There is no charge for the research. Requests for records may be submitted by phone, letter, email, or fax. We do not currently have facilities for researchers on site.
*'''Closed Parishes:''' Please contact the Archives to request records from these churches. The Archives holds the records of the following closed parishes and missions:
::Galveston: Catholic Chaplains Corps, Holy Rosary Church, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, Queen of Peace/Reina de la Paz Mission, Sacred Heart Church, St. Mary Cathedral Basilica, St. Joseph Church, St. Patrick Church, St. Peter the Apostle Church.
::Freeport--St. Henry Church,
::Port Bolivar--Our Mother of Mercy Church,
::Fayetteville--Espiritu Santo Mission
 
The Archdiocese includes the counties of: [[Austin County, Texas Genealogy|Austin]], [[Brazoria County, Texas Genealogy|Brazoria]], [[Fort Bend County, Texas Genealogy|Fort Bend]], [[Galveston County, Texas Genealogy|Galveston]], [[Grimes County, Texas Genealogy|Grimes]], [[Harris County, Texas Genealogy|Harris]], [[Montgomery County, Texas Genealogy|Montgomery]], [[San Jacinto County, Texas Genealogy|San Jacinto]], [[Walker County, Texas Genealogy|Walker]] and [[Waller County, Texas Genealogy|Waller]]<ref name="rome" />
----
[https://www.dioceseoflaredo.org/ '''Diocese of Laredo''']<br>1901 Corpus Christi Street<br>Laredo, TX 78043<br>Phone: (956) 727-2140
*Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the [https://www.dioceseoflaredo.org/parish-map '''Parish Map.''']
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Dimmit County, Texas Genealogy|Dimmit]], [[Jim Hogg County, Texas Genealogy|Jim Hogg]], [[La Salle County, Texas Genealogy|La Salle]], [[Maverick County, Texas Genealogy|Maverick]], [[Webb County, Texas Genealogy|Webb]], [[Zapata County, Texas Genealogy|Zapata]] and [[Zavala County, Texas Genealogy|Zavala]]<ref name="rome" />
----
[https://www.catholiclubbock.org/ '''Diocese of Lubbock''']<br>4620 Fourth Street<br>Lubbock, TX 79499-8700<br>Phone: (806) 792-3943
*Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the [https://catholiclubbock.org/Parishes.html '''Parish Directory.''']
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Bailey County, Texas Genealogy|Bailey]], [[Borden County, Texas Genealogy|Borden]], [[Cochran County, Texas Genealogy|Cochran]], [[Cottle County, Texas Genealogy|Cottle]], [[Crosby County, Texas Genealogy|Crosby]], [[Dawson County, Texas Genealogy|Dawson]], [[Dickens County, Texas Genealogy|Dickens]], [[Fisher County, Texas Genealogy|Fisher]], [[Floyd County, Texas Genealogy|Floyd]], [[Gaines County, Texas Genealogy|Gaines]], [[Garza County, Texas Genealogy|Garza]], [[Hale County, Texas Genealogy|Hale]], [[Haskell County, Texas Genealogy|Haskell]], [[Hockley County, Texas Genealogy|Hockley]], [[Kent County, Texas Genealogy|Kent]], [[King County, Texas Genealogy|King]], [[Lamb County, Texas Genealogy|Lamb]], [[Lubbock County, Texas Genealogy|Lubbock]], [[Lynn County, Texas Genealogy|Lynn]], [[Motley County, Texas Genealogy|Motley]], [[Scurry County, Texas Genealogy|Scurry]], [[Stonewall County, Texas Genealogy|Stonewall]], [[Terry County, Texas Genealogy|Terry]] and [[Yoakum County, Texas Genealogy|Yoakum]]<ref name="rome" />
----
[http://www.sanangelodiocese.org/index.html '''Diocese of San Angelo''']<br>804 Ford Street<br>San Angelo, TX 76905<br>Phone: (325) 651-7500
 
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1829<br>San Angelo, TX 76902-1829
*Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the [https://www.sanangelodiocese.org/parishfinder '''Parish Finder.''']
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Andrews County, Texas Genealogy|Andrews]], [[Brown County, Texas Genealogy|Brown]], [[Callahan County, Texas Genealogy|Callahan]], [[Coke County, Texas Genealogy|Coke]], [[Coleman County, Texas Genealogy|Coleman]], [[Concho County, Texas Genealogy|Concho]], [[Crane County, Texas Genealogy|Crane]], [[Crockett County, Texas Genealogy|Crockett]], [[Ector County, Texas Genealogy|Ector]], [[Glasscock County, Texas Genealogy|Glasscock]], [[Howard County, Texas Genealogy|Howard]], [[Irion County, Texas Genealogy|Irion]], [[Kimble County, Texas Genealogy|Kimble]], [[Martin County, Texas Genealogy|Martin]], [[McCulloch County, Texas Genealogy|McCulloch]], [[Menard County, Texas Genealogy|Menard]], [[Midland County, Texas Genealogy|Midland]], [[Mitchell County, Texas Genealogy|Mitchell]], [[Nolan County, Texas Genealogy|Nolan]], [[Pecos County, Texas Genealogy|Pecos]], [[Reagan County, Texas Genealogy|Reagan]], [[Runnels County, Texas Genealogy|Runnels]], [[Schleicher County, Texas Genealogy|Schleicher]], [[Sterling County, Texas Genealogy|Sterling]], [[Sutton County, Texas Genealogy|Sutton]], [[Taylor County, Texas Genealogy|Taylor]], [[Terrell County, Texas Genealogy|Terrell]], [[Tom Green County, Texas Genealogy|Tom Green]] and [[Upton County, Texas Genealogy|Upton]]<ref name="rome" />
----
[http://www.archsa.org/ '''Archdiocese of San Antonio''']<br>2718 W. Woodlawn<br>San Antonio, TX 78228<br>Phone: (210) 734-2620
*Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the [https://www.archsa.org/parishes/ '''Parish Locator.''']
The Archdiocese includes the counties of: [[Atascosa County, Texas Genealogy|Atascosa]], [[Bandera County, Texas Genealogy|Bandera]], [[Bexar County, Texas Genealogy|Bexar]], [[Comal County, Texas Genealogy|Comal]], [[Edwards County, Texas Genealogy|Edwards]], [[Frio County, Texas Genealogy|Frio]], [[Gillespie County, Texas Genealogy|Gillespie]], [[Gonzales County, Texas Genealogy|Gonzales]], [[Guadalupe County, Texas Genealogy|Guadalupe]], [[Karnes County, Texas Genealogy|Karnes]], [[Kendall County, Texas Genealogy|Kendall]], [[Kerr County, Texas Genealogy|Kerr]], [[Kinney County, Texas Genealogy|Kinney]], [[McMullen County, Texas Genealogy|McMullen]], [[Medina County, Texas Genealogy|Medina]], [[Real County, Texas Genealogy|Real]], [[Uvalde County, Texas Genealogy|Uvalde]], [[Val Verde County, Texas Genealogy|Val Verde]] and [[Wilson County, Texas Genealogy|Wilson]]<ref name="rome" />
----
[http://www.dioceseoftyler.org/index.php '''Diocese of Tyler''']<br>1015 ESE Loop 323<br>Tyler, TX 75701-9663<br>Phone: (903) 534-1077
*Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the [https://www.dioceseoftyler.org/en/find-a-parish '''Parish Finder.''']
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Anderson County, Texas Genealogy|Anderson]], [[Angelina County, Texas Genealogy|Angelina]], [[Bowie County, Texas Genealogy|Bowie]], [[Camp County, Texas Genealogy|Camp]], [[Cass County, Texas Genealogy|Cass]], [[Cherokee County, Texas Genealogy|Cherokee]], [[Delta County, Texas Genealogy|Delta]], [[Franklin County, Texas Genealogy|Franklin]], [[Freestone County, Texas Genealogy|Freestone]], [[Gregg County, Texas Genealogy|Gregg]], [[Harrison County, Texas Genealogy|Harrison]], [[Henderson County, Texas Genealogy|Henderson]], [[Hopkins County, Texas Genealogy|Hopkins]], [[Houston County, Texas Genealogy|Houston]], [[Lamar County, Texas Genealogy|Lamar]], [[Leon County, Texas Genealogy|Leon]], [[Madison County, Texas Genealogy|Madison]], [[Marion County, Texas Genealogy|Marion]], [[Morris County, Texas Genealogy|Morris]], [[Nacogdoches County, Texas Genealogy|Nacogdoches]], [[Panola County, Texas Genealogy|Panola]], [[Rains County, Texas Genealogy|Rains]], [[Red River County, Texas Genealogy|Red River]], [[Rusk County, Texas Genealogy|Rusk]], [[Sabine County, Texas Genealogy|Sabine]], [[San Augustine County, Texas Genealogy|San Augustine]], [[Shelby County, Texas Genealogy|Shelby]], [[Smith County, Texas Genealogy|Smith]], [[Titus County, Texas Genealogy|Titus]], [[Trinity County, Texas Genealogy|Trinity]], [[Upshur County, Texas Genealogy|Upshur]], [[Van Zandt County, Texas Genealogy|Van Zandt]] and [[Wood County, Texas Genealogy|Wood]]<ref name="rome" />
----
[https://www.victoriadiocese.org/ '''Diocese of Victoria''']<br>P.O. Box 4070<br>1505 E. Mesquite Lane<br>Victoria, TX 77901<br>Phone: (361) 573-0828
*Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the [https://www.victoriadiocese.org/parishfinder '''Parish Finder.''']
*Early sacramental records are on microfilm at the [https://txcatholic.org/catholic-archives-of-texas/ '''Catholic Archives of Texas.''']<br>
The diocese includes the counties of: [[Calhoun County, Texas Genealogy|Calhoun]], [[Colorado County, Texas Genealogy|Colorado]], [[De Witt County, Texas Genealogy|De Witt]], [[Goliad County, Texas Genealogy|Goliad]], [[Jackson County, Texas Genealogy|Jackson]], [[Lavaca County, Texas Genealogy|Lavaca]], [[Matagorda County, Texas Genealogy|Matagorda]], [[Victoria County, Texas Genealogy|Victoria]], [[Wharton County, Texas Genealogy|Wharton]] and [[Fayette County, Texas Genealogy|Fayette]]<ref name="rome" />
----
 
===Correspond with genealogical or historical societies.===
Some church records have been given to historical societies. Also, historical societies may be able to tell you where the records are being held. To find a society near you, consult these lists:
<br>
 
==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>
==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>
 
[[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'''.]]
 
==References==
 
<references />
{{Texas|Texas}}{{USChurch}}</div>{{-}}
[[Category:Texas, United States]]
Church]]
      [[Category:U_S_States_Church_records]]

Latest revision as of 20:25, 15 April 2024

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

Historical Background

Texas church records.png

Before 1900, the largest religious groups in Texas were the Baptist, Methodist Episcopal, Presbyterians, and Roman Catholics.[1]

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:

Finding the Records

Look for online records.


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!

FamilySearch

Dutch Reformed

Episcopal

Lutheran

Methodist

Presbyterian

Roman Catholic

Look for digital copies of church records in the FamilySearch Catalog.

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, Texas.
b. Click on Places within United States, Texas 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, Texas [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.

These aids generally provide lists of records that are known to exist and information on their location. For a history of the Baptists in Texas, see:

For a history of the Catholic Church, see:

For a history of the Methodist Church, see:

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 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.

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.

State Archives

Texas State Library and Archives Commission
Lorenzo de Zavala State Archives and Library Building
Physical address: 1201 Brazos St., Austin, TX 78701
Mailing address: P.O. Box 12927, Austin, TX 78711-2927
Phone: (512) 463-5455
E-mail: info@tsl.texas.gov

University Archives

The Dolph Briscoe Center for American History
The University of Texas at Austin
2300 Red River St. Stop D1100
Austin TX, 78712-1426

Baptist

Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
A. Webb Roberts Library
2001 West Seminary Drive
Fort Worth, TX 76122
Phone: (817) 923-1921 (x3330)
Fax: (817) 921-8754

Baylor University
Moody Memorial Library
Box 6307
Waco, TX 76703
Phone: (254) 710-2111
Fax: (254) 710-3116

Texas Baptist Historical Collection
209 N. 8th Street
Waco, TX 76701
Phone: (254) 754-9446

Samford University Library
800 Lakeshore Drive
Birmingham, AL 35229

Telephone:205-726-2196
E-mail: referenc@samford.edu

Disciples of Christ

Brite Divinity School Collection
Mary Couts Burnett Library
Texas Christian University
2913 West Lowden
Fort Worth, TX 76129
Phone: (817) 921-7117
Fax: (817) 921-7447

Lutheran

ELCA Region4-South Archives
1090 Oestreich Dr.
Seguin, TX 78155

Phone:(830) 379-9900
E-mail: archives@swtsynod.org

  • Archives hold records for closed churches. For open churches write directly to the local church.

Methodist

Center for Methodist Studies
United Methodist Historical Collection
Bridwell Library
Southern Methodist University
6005 Bishop Boulevard
P.O. Box 750476
Dallas, TX 75275

Presbyterian

Presbyterian Theological Seminary Archives
100 E. 27th St.
Austin, TX 78705

Roman Catholic

Catholic Archives of Texas
6225 E Hwy 290
Austin, TX 78723
Phone: 512-476-6296

"Due to the high volume of records requests, we are no longer accepting requests for genealogical purposes. Our records up to and including the year 1940 are open for that purpose. We welcome individuals willing to research genealogical records yourself. " Accessed 20 July 2020.

Diocese of Amarillo
4512 NE 24th Amarillo, TX 79107
P.O. Box 5644
Amarillo, TX 79117
Phone:806-383-2243
Fax 806-383-8452

The diocese includes the counties of: Armstrong, Briscoe, Carson, Castro, Childress, Collingsworth, Dallam, Deaf Smith, Donley, Gray, Hall, Hansford, Hartley, Hemphill, Hutchinson, Lipscomb, Moore, Ochiltree, Oldham, Parmer, Potter, Randall, Roberts, Sherman, Swisher and Wheeler.[2]

Diocese of Austin
6225 Highway 290 East
Austin, TX 78723-1025
Phone: (512) 949-2400

The diocese includes the counties of: Bastrop, Bell, Blanco, Brazos, Burleson, Burnet, Caldwell, Coryell, Falls, Fayette, Hamilton, Hays, Lampasas, Lee, Limestone, Llano, Mason, McLennan, Milam, Mills, Robertson, San Saba, Travis, Washington and Williamson[2]

Diocese of Beaumont
P.O. Box 3948
Beaumont, TX 77704-3948
Phone: (409) 924-4300

  • Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the Parish List.

The diocese includes the counties of: Chambers, Hardin, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Newton, Orange, Polk and Tyler[2]

Diocese of Brownsville
1910 University Blvd.
Brownsville, TX 78520
Phone: (956) 550-1517

  • Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the Parish Directory.
  • Early sacramental records are on microfilm at the Catholic Archives of Texas.

The diocese includes the counties of: Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy[2]

Diocese of Corpus Christi
620 Lipan
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Phone: (361) 693-6726

  • Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the Find a Parish.

The diocese includes the counties of: Aransas, Bee, Brooks, Duval, Jim Wells, Kenedy, Kleberg, Live Oak, McMullen, Nueces, Refugio and San Patricio[2]

Diocese of Dallas
3725 Blackburn St.
Dallas, TX 75219
Phone: (214) 528-2240

  • Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the Find a Parish.

The diocese includes the counties of: Collin, Dallas, Ellis, Fannin, Grayson, Hunt, Kaufman, Navarro and Rockwell[2]

Diocese of El Paso
499 St. Matthews St.
El Paso, TX 79907
Phone: (915) 872-8400

  • Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the Parish List.

The diocese includes the counties of: Brewster, Culberson, El Paso, Hudspeth, Jeff Davis, Loving, Presidio, Reeves, Ward and Winkler[2]

Diocese of Ft. Worth
800 West Loop 820 South
Fort Worth, TX 76108
Phone: (817) 560-330

  • Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the Parish Finder.

The diocese includes the counties of: Archer, Baylor, Bosque, Clay, Comanche, Cooke, Denton, Eastland, Erath, Foard, Hardeman, Hill, Hood, Jack, Johnson, Knox, Montague, Palo Pinto, Parker, Shackelford, Somervell, Stephens, Tarrant, Throckmorton, Wichita, Wilbarger and Wise[2]

Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston Archives
Mail: P.O. Box 907
Houston, TX 77001 Physical address:Downtown Chancery
1700 San Jacinto
Houston, TX 77002
Phone: (713)-652-8283

  • Archives and Records
  • Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the Parish Search.
  • Genealogy: 'Though the Catholic Church has been active in Texas since the 1500s, we have no sacramental records before 1840. While the Archdiocese of Galveston originally included all of Texas, our records cover only the present Archdiocese, as well as some parishes now in the Dioceses of Beaumont, Tyler, and Victoria. These records are open to researchers up to 1920. After 1920, the records are closed except to the person(s) named in the record, and proof of identity must be provided before we will issue a certificate. We do not provide sacramental certificates to genealogists, but we will provide copies of the records (if possible) or transcripts. There is no charge for the research. Requests for records may be submitted by phone, letter, email, or fax. We do not currently have facilities for researchers on site.
  • Closed Parishes: Please contact the Archives to request records from these churches. The Archives holds the records of the following closed parishes and missions:
Galveston: Catholic Chaplains Corps, Holy Rosary Church, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, Queen of Peace/Reina de la Paz Mission, Sacred Heart Church, St. Mary Cathedral Basilica, St. Joseph Church, St. Patrick Church, St. Peter the Apostle Church.
Freeport--St. Henry Church,
Port Bolivar--Our Mother of Mercy Church,
Fayetteville--Espiritu Santo Mission


The Archdiocese includes the counties of: Austin, Brazoria, Fort Bend, Galveston, Grimes, Harris, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Walker and Waller[2]

Diocese of Laredo
1901 Corpus Christi Street
Laredo, TX 78043
Phone: (956) 727-2140

  • Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the Parish Map.

The diocese includes the counties of: Dimmit, Jim Hogg, La Salle, Maverick, Webb, Zapata and Zavala[2]

Diocese of Lubbock
4620 Fourth Street
Lubbock, TX 79499-8700
Phone: (806) 792-3943

  • Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the Parish Directory.

The diocese includes the counties of: Bailey, Borden, Cochran, Cottle, Crosby, Dawson, Dickens, Fisher, Floyd, Gaines, Garza, Hale, Haskell, Hockley, Kent, King, Lamb, Lubbock, Lynn, Motley, Scurry, Stonewall, Terry and Yoakum[2]

Diocese of San Angelo
804 Ford Street
San Angelo, TX 76905
Phone: (325) 651-7500

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1829
San Angelo, TX 76902-1829

  • Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the Parish Finder.

The diocese includes the counties of: Andrews, Brown, Callahan, Coke, Coleman, Concho, Crane, Crockett, Ector, Glasscock, Howard, Irion, Kimble, Martin, McCulloch, Menard, Midland, Mitchell, Nolan, Pecos, Reagan, Runnels, Schleicher, Sterling, Sutton, Taylor, Terrell, Tom Green and Upton[2]

Archdiocese of San Antonio
2718 W. Woodlawn
San Antonio, TX 78228
Phone: (210) 734-2620

  • Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the Parish Locator.

The Archdiocese includes the counties of: Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Edwards, Frio, Gillespie, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Karnes, Kendall, Kerr, Kinney, McMullen, Medina, Real, Uvalde, Val Verde and Wilson[2]

Diocese of Tyler
1015 ESE Loop 323
Tyler, TX 75701-9663
Phone: (903) 534-1077

  • Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the Parish Finder.

The diocese includes the counties of: Anderson, Angelina, Bowie, Camp, Cass, Cherokee, Delta, Franklin, Freestone, Gregg, Harrison, Henderson, Hopkins, Houston, Lamar, Leon, Madison, Marion, Morris, Nacogdoches, Panola, Rains, Red River, Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, Shelby, Smith, Titus, Trinity, Upshur, Van Zandt and Wood[2]

Diocese of Victoria
P.O. Box 4070
1505 E. Mesquite Lane
Victoria, TX 77901
Phone: (361) 573-0828

  • Each parish maintains its own sacramental records. You may find the contact information for parishes of this diocese by using the Parish Finder.
  • Early sacramental records are on microfilm at the Catholic Archives of Texas.

The diocese includes the counties of: Calhoun, Colorado, De Witt, Goliad, Jackson, Lavaca, Matagorda, Victoria, Wharton and Fayette[2]

Correspond with genealogical or historical societies.

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

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.

Major U.S. Religious Denominations



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


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

  1. ↑ William Chamberlin Hunt and United States Bureau of the Census, Religious Bodies: 1906 (Washington, D.C.: Government Printing Office, 1910), Vol. 1:355-364. Digital version at Google Books.
  2. ↑ 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 2.11 2.12 2.13 2.14 List of the Catholic Dioceses in the United States of America.
v • d• e
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Links to U.S. Religion Records-related articles
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