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Wisconsin Church Records: Difference between revisions

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''[[United States]][[Image:St James Episcopal Church Manitowoc.png|thumb|right]]  [[Image:Gotoarrow.png]]  [[Wisconsin]]  [[Image:Gotoarrow.png]]  [[Pennsylvania Church Records|Church Records]]''
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Church records and the information they provide vary significantly depending on the denomination and the record keeper. They may contain information about members of the congregation, such as age, date of baptism, christening, or birth; marriage information and maiden names; and death date. Records may include names of other relatives who were witnesses or members of the congregation. The members of some churches were predominantly of one nationality or ethnic group.
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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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|[[Image:St James Episcopal Church Manitowoc.png|thumb|right|<center>St James Episcopal Church Manitowoc<center>]]
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==Historical Background==
During the 1800s, two major denominations—[[Roman Catholic Church in the United States|'''Catholics''']] and [[Lutheran Church in the United States|'''Lutherans''']]—were widely represented in [[Wisconsin Genealogy|Wisconsin]]. This was largely because of the tremendous number of German, Polish, and Scandinavian immigrants who settled in the state. Methodists and Baptists were also represented but in much smaller numbers.<ref>Sydney E. Ahlstrom, ''A Religious History of the American People'' (New Haven, Conn.: Yale University Press, 1972). {{FSC|282712|item|disp=FS Library Book 973 K2ah}}.</ref>
==Information Found in the Records==
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]]
|}


== Wisconsin Church Records ==
==Finding the Records==
===Look for online records.===


During the 1800s, two major denominations—Catholics and Lutherans—were widely represented in [[Wisconsin|Wisconsin]]. This was largely because of the tremendous number of German, Polish, and Scandinavian immigrants who settled in the state. Methodists and Baptists were also represented but in much smaller numbers.<ref>Sydney E. Ahlstrom, ''A Religious History of the American People'' (New Haven, Conn.: Yale University Press, 1972). {{FHL|282712|item|disp=FHL Book 973 K2ah}}.</ref>  
<br>


The records of many denominations have been preserved. They are especially valuable because often they cover time periods before the state began registration of births, marriages, and deaths. The Family History Library has microfilm copies of many church records from Wisconsin. Some church records have also been deposited with the Wisconsin Historical Society. Although some records of congregations have been gathered to major denominational repositories, the majority still remain with local congregations.  
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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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====Indexes====
*'''1826-1926''' {{RecordSearch|1708703|Wisconsin, Births and Christenings, 1826-1926}} at FamilySearch - [[Wisconsin Births and Christenings - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; Index only.
*'''1826-1908''' [http://search.ancestry.com/search/db.aspx?dbid=2544 Wisconsin Births and Christenings Index, 1826-1908] Index only ($)
*'''1835-1968''' {{RecordSearch|1708699|Wisconsin, Deaths and Burials, 1835-1968}} at FamilySearch - [[Wisconsin Deaths and Burials - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; Index only.
*'''1836-1930''' {{RecordSearch|1708704|Wisconsin, Marriages, 1836-1930}} at FamilySearch - [[Wisconsin Marriages - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; Index only.
====Dutch Reformed====
*'''1639-1989''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/6961/ U.S., Dutch Reformed Church Records in Selected States, 1639-1989], index and images, incomplete.($)
*'''1701-1995''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60766/ U.S., Selected States Dutch Reformed Church Membership Records, 1701-1995], index and images, incomplete.($)
*'''1856-1970''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60524/ U.S., Dutch Christian Reformed Church Vital Records, 1856-1970], index and images, incomplete.($)
*'''1856-1970''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60767/ U.S., Dutch Christian Reformed Church Membership Records, 1856-1970], index and images, incomplete.($)
====Presbyterian====
*'''1701-1970''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/61048/ U.S., Presbyterian Church Records, 1701-1970], index and images, incomplete.($)
====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.($)
*'''1800-1947''' [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/61584/ U.S., Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Swedish American Church Records, 1800-1947], index and images, incomplete.($)


The early Roman Catholic records (1695–1821) for the mission of St. Ignace of Michilimackinac contain information about many of the early traders in what is now Wisconsin and are published in:  
===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=59&query=%2Bplace%3A%22United%20States%2C%20Wisconsin%22 '''records of United States, Wisconsin'''].
:::b. Click on '''Places within United States, Wisconsin''' 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, Wisconsin [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.
-----


*Draper, Lyman Copeland, ed. ''Collections of the State Historical Society of Wisconsin.'' Madison, Wisconsin: State Historical Society of Wisconsin, 1855–. (Family History Library {{FHL|629105|title-id|disp=book 977.5 B4wc; on film beginning with&nbsp;924580}}.) This series has the register of baptisms of the parish of St. Ignace de Michilimakinak, 1695–1821 (vol. 19), marriages 1725–1821 (vol. 18), and burials 1743–1806 (vol. 19).<!--{12085459943642} --> Online at:[http://www.wisconsinhistory.org/turningpoints/search.asp?id=263 Wisconsin Historical Society]
===Consult available finding aids.===


The Family History Library has several Historical Records Survey inventories completed in the 1940s of the church archives in the state. These inventories may help identify what records are available and where they may be located:
'''These aids generally provide lists of records that are known to exist and information on their location.'''
*[https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/242911-redirection Directory of Churches and Religious Organizations in Wisconsin.'' Madison, Wisconsin: The Wisconsin Historical Records Survey, 1941.]
*[https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/104901-redirection Inventory of the church archives of Wisconsin : Assemblies of God]
*[https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/109766-redirection Inventory of the church archives of Wisconsin : Disciples of Christ]
*[https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/103812-redirection Inventory of the church archives of Wisconsin : Moravian Church]
*[https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/108208-redirection Inventory of the church archives of Wisconsin : Church of the Nazarene]
*[https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/242160-redirection Inventory of the church archives of Wisconsin : Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of America, Diocese of Fond de Lac]
*[https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/225098-redirection Inventory of the church archives of Wisconsin : church of the United Brethren in Christ]
*[http://www.pblib.org/FamHist-Iowa.html Church and Family History Research Assistance for Primitive Baptist Churches in Iowa, Wisconsin, and Missouri]


*Historical Records Survey (Wisconsin). ''Guide to Church Vital Statistics Records in Wisconsin.'' Madison, Wisconsin: Wisconsin Historical Records Survey, 1942. (Family History Library book {{FHL|234123|title-id|disp=977.5 K23h}}; film {{FHL|234123|title-id|disp=1036234 item 5}}.) This gives the exact years of the church registers.
<div style="width: 100%; float: left">
[[Image:Wisconsin churches.png|thumb|right|350px|Wisconsin churches.png]]


The Family History Library also has inventories that list the records available in the individual churches. The inventories were prepared by the Historical Records Survey between 1938 and 1942:
===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.


*Assembly of God, Family History Library film {{FHL|182058|title-id|disp=982044 }}item 7
===Check the church records collections in archives and libraries.===
*Disciples of Christ, Family History Library film {{FHL|182307|title-id|disp=982044}} item 6
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>
*Moravian Church, Family History Library book 977.5 K2hi; film {{FHL|182368|title-id|disp=2055227}} item 6
<br>
*Church of the Nazarene, Family History Library film {{FHL|623666|title-id|disp=982044}} item 8
<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>
*Protestant Episcopal, Family History Library film {{FHL|234148|title-id|disp=1036232}} item 4
*United Brethren in Christ, Family History Library film {{FHL|182080|title-id|disp=982044}} item 5


To learn which towns or cities had churches in 1940, see:
-----


*Historical Records Survey (Wisconsin). ''Directory of Churches and Religious Organizations in Wisconsin.'' Madison, Wisconsin: The Wisconsin Historical Records Survey, 1941. (Family History Library book {{FHL|183002|title-id|disp=977.5 K24h}}; film {{FHL|183002|title-id|disp=1036193}} item 12; fiche {{FHL|183002|title-id|disp=6051165}}.) This directory lists churches by denomination and by county. Though it lists towns or cities that had churches, it does not give the year the registers began.
====Wisconsin Historical Society====
[https://www.wisconsinhistory.org/Records/Article/CS15324 '''Wisconsin Historical Society''']<br>
Division of Library, Archives and Museum Collections<br>
816 State Street<br>
Madison, WI 53706<br>
Phone:608-264-6535<br>
*[https://www.wisconsinhistory.org/Home/Feedback/1030 '''Email''']
*[https://www.wisconsinhistory.org/Records/Article/CS3556 '''Archives''']
*[https://www.wisconsinhistory.org/Records/Article/CS1593 '''About Our Church Records''']
*[https://search.library.wisc.edu/search/system?q= '''Library Catalog Search Engine''']
*Draper, Lyman Copeland, ed. ''Collections of the State Historical Society of Wisconsin.'' Madison, Wisconsin: State Historical Society of Wisconsin, 1855–. (FamilySearch Library {{FSC|629105|title-id|disp=book 977.5 B4wc; on film beginning with 924580}}
----


The Family History Library has histories of several denominations. An example is Stephen Peet, ''{{FHL|182400|title-id|disp=History of the Presbyterian and Congregational Churches and Ministers in Wisconsin}}'' (Milwaukee, Wisconsin: S. Chapman, 1851; (digitized)&nbsp;; {{FHL|182400|title-id|disp=film 982027 item 5}}).
====Lutheran====
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


=== Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) ===
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. For a list of some of the records, see:
*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.''']]
----
[https://welshistoricalinstitute.org/visit/wels-archive/ '''Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod''']<br>WELS Archives & Visitor Center<br>N16W23377 Stone Ridge Drive<br>Waukesha, WI 53188


Early church records for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, for Wisconsin wards and branches can be found on film at the Family History Library in Salt Lake City. The film numbers for each ward can be located through the [https://www.familysearch.org/#form=catalog Family History Library Catalog] or by referring to Jaussi, Laureen R., and Gloria D. Chaston. ''Register of Genealogical Society Call Numbers''. 2 vols. Provo, Utah: Genealogy Tree, 1982. (FHL book 979.2258 A3j; fiche 6031507). These volumes contain the film numbers for many (but not all) membership and temple record films.  
----
[https://www.els-history.org/ '''Evangelical Lutheran Synod Historical Society''']<br>6 Browns Court<br>Mankato, MN 56001<br>[https://www.els-history.org/contact.html '''Contact Us''']
*Their mission is to assist local congregations in preserving their records. They may be able to advise researchers on the location of records.
<br>
----
[http://www.lutheranhistory.org/ '''Concordia Historical Institute''' ]<br>801 DeMun Avenue <br>St. Louis, MO 63105 <br>Phone: (314) 505-7900
*They have some records of existing Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod congregations and records of some that have closed.
*[https://concordiahistoricalinstitute.libraryhost.com/ '''Archives Catalog''']
----


=== Lutheran ===
==== Methodist ====
[http://www.wisconsinumc.org/ '''Wisconsin Conference United Methodist Church''']<br>750 Windsor Street <br>Sun Prairie, WI 53590 <br>Phone: (608) 837-7328
*[https://www.wisconsinumc.org/the-archives '''Archives''']
*[https://www.wisconsinumc.org/contact-us '''Contact Information for Requesting Information''']
*[https://www.familysearch.org/library/books/records/item/464716-redirection '''''History of Methodism in Wisconsin'''''] Pansey S. F. Bennett, (Cincinnati, Ohio: Cranston &amp; Stowe, 1980
----


[http://www.elca.org/Who-We-Are/History/ELCA-Archives.aspx Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA Archives)] <br>8765 West Higgins <br>Chicago, IL 60631<br>Phone: (773) 380-2818 <br>Fax: (312) 380-2977
==== Roman Catholic  ====
[http://www.archmil.org/archmil/home.htm '''Archdiocese of Milwaukee''']<br>
3501 South Lake Drive<br>
PO Box 070912<br>
Milwaukee, WI 53207-0912<br>
Phone:  414-769-3300<br>
Toll-Free: 800-769-9373<br>
Fax: 414-769-3408<br>
*'''
The church records of the parishes in the above diocese have been microfilmed to about 1920 and are available through the FamilySearch Library. These records include parishes in about eleven counties in southeastern Wisconsin. The records are cataloged by the town where the parish is located.'''
*[https://www.archmil.org/offices/archives/genealogical-resources-information.htm '''Genealogical Resources and Information''']
**[https://www.archmil.org/offices/archives/genealogical-records-request.htm '''Online Genealogical Request Form''']
*For more recent records and information, contact [https://www.archmil.org/parishes/Find-Parish.htm '''the local parish.''']<br>
The Archdiocese consists of the following counties: [[Dodge County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Dodge]], [[Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Fond du Lac]], [[Kenosha County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Kenosha]], [[Milwaukee County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Milwaukee]], [[Ozaukee County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Ozaukee]], [[Racine County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Racine]], [[Sheboygan County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Sheboygan]], [[Walworth County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Walworth]], [[Washington County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Washington]] and [[Waukesha County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Waukesha]]<ref name="rc" />
----
[http://www.gbdioc.org/ '''Diocese of Green Bay''']<br>
Chancery Building<br>
1825 Riverside Drive<br>
Green Bay, WI  54305-3825<br>
Phone: (920) 272-8186, 272-8187, or 272-8195<br>
Fax: (920) 435-1330<br>
*[https://www.gbdioc.org/archives/archives-access-and-services?highlight=WyJhcmNoaXZlcyIsImFyY2hpdmVzJyJd '''Archives:''']  Archives assist scholars and family genealogists in line with church, state, and federal laws and accepted archival practices.
**[https://www.gbdioc.org/archives/archives-access-and-services?highlight=WyJhcmNoaXZlcyIsImFyY2hpdmVzJyJd '''What Records Are in the Archives? Sacramental records of all parish churches in the Diocese: (all pre-1920 microfiched sacramental records are open to the general public)''']
*For more recent records and information, contact [https://www.gbdioc.org/communications-and-the-compass/finder-page '''the local parish.''']<br>
The diocese consists of the following counties: [[Brown County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Brown]], [[Calumet County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Calumet]], [[Door County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Door]], [[Florence County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Florence]], [[Forest County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Forest]], [[Kewaunee County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Kewaunee]], [[Langlade County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Langlade]], [[Manitowoc County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Manitowoc]], [[Marinette County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Marinette]], [[Menominee County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Menominee]], [[Oconto County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Oconto]], [[Outagamie County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Outagamie]], [[Shawano County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Shawano]], [[Waupaca County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Waupaca]], [[Waushara County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Waushara]], and [[Winnebago County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Winnebago]]<ref name="rc" />
----
[http://www.dioceseoflacrosse.com/ '''Diocese of La Crosse''']<br>
3710 East Ave S<br>
PO Box 4004<br>
La Crosse, Wisconsin 54602-4004<br>
Phone: 608-788-7700<br>
Fax: 608-788-8413<br>
*[https://diolc.org/archives/ '''Archives''']
*'''All parish registries prior to the year 1960 have been filmed.  Genealogical searches presently are restricted to the pre 1926 time period.'''
*[https://diolc.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Diocese-of-La-Crosse-Genealogical-Records-Policy_2017-1.pdf '''Genealogical Request Form''']
*For more recent records and information, contact [https://diolc.org/parishes/ '''the local parish.''']<br>
The diocese consists of the following counties: [[Adams County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Adams]], [[Buffalo County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Buffalo]], [[Chippewa County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Chippewa]], [[Clark County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Clark]], [[Crawford County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Crawford]], [[Dunn County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Dunn]], [[Eau Claire County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Eau Claire]], [[Jackson County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Jackson]], [[Juneau County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Juneau]], [[La Crosse County, Wisconsin Genealogy|La Crosse]], [[Marathon County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Marathon]], [[Monroe County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Monroe]], [[Pepin County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Pepin]], [[Pierce County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Pierce]], [[Portage County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Portage]], [[Richland County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Richland]], [[Trempealeau County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Trempealeau]], [[Vernon County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Vernon]], [[Wood County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Wood]]<ref name="rc" />
----
[http://www.madisondiocese.org/ '''Diocese of Madison''']<br>
702 South High Point Road, Suite 225<br>
Madison, WI 53719<br>
Phone: 608-821-3000<br>
Fax: 608-440-2808<br>
E-mail:communication@madisondiocese.org<br>
*[https://madisondiocese.org/archives '''Archives'''] This page has a link to a list of closed parishes and the location of their records.<br>
*For more recent records and information, contact [https://madisondiocese.org/parishfinder '''the local parish.''']
The diocese consists of the following counties: [[Columbia County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Columbia]], [[Dane County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Dane]], [[Grant County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Grant]], [[Green County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Green]], [[Green Lake County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Green Lake]], [[Iowa County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Iowa]], [[Jefferson County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Jefferson]], [[Lafayette County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Lafayette]], [[Marquette County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Marquette]], [[Rock County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Rock]], and [[Sauk County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Sauk]]<ref name="rc" />
----
[http://www.catholicdos.org/ '''Diocese of Superior''']<br>Chancellor<br>PO Box 969<br>Superior, WI  54880<br>Telephone: 715-394-0205.<br>
*[https://catholicdos.org/sacramental-records '''Sacramental Records'''] '''Requests for the purpose of genealogy to access sacramental records can be done through the Office of the Chancellor.  To facilitate the process, requests should ordinarily be made in writing.'''
*For more recent records and information, contact [https://www.catholicdos.org/parish-location-a-b '''the local parish.''']<br>
*[https://catholicdos.org/closed-or-merged-parishes '''Location of records for closed or merged parishes.''']
The diocese consists of the following counties: [[Ashland County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Ashland]], [[Barron County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Barron]], [[Bayfield County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Bayfield]], [[Burnett County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Burnett]], [[Douglas County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Douglas]], [[Iron County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Iron]], [[Lincoln County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Lincoln]], [[Oneida County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Oneida]], [[Polk County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Polk]], [[Price County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Price]], [[Rusk County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Rusk]], [[Sawyer County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Sawyer]], [[St. Croix County, Wisconsin Genealogy|St. Croix]], [[Taylor County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Taylor]], [[Vilas County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Vilas]] and [[Washburn County, Wisconsin Genealogy|Washburn]].<ref name="rc">[https://www.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=a945f185eab041378d595f6c0a7f628f Map of the Roman Catholic Dioceses in the United States of America], Office of Catholic Schools Diocese of Columbus, accessed 3 Nov 2010.</ref>
----


The above archives has microfilms of Evangelical Lutheran congregations for region nine, which includes Iowa, Illinois, upper Michigan, and Wisconsin. Many of their records can be borrowed for a small fee. (For a list of the church records for approximately 200 Wisconsin congregations in the collection, see Family History Library fiche {{FHL|269930|title-id|disp=6330690-93}}.)
===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>


Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod <br>[http://archive.wels.net/cgi-bin/site.pl Department of Archives and History]<br>2929 North Mayfair Road<br>Milwaukee WI 53222 <br>Phone: (414) 256-3888
==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>


The following yearbook contains the names of congregations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod and includes name, telephone number, and address of the minister:
[[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'''.]]


*''Yearbook of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod.'' Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Northwestern Publishing House, 1989–. (Family History Library book {{FHL|440171|title-id|disp=977.5 K24w 1990}}.)
==References==
<references/>


[http://www.lutheranhistory.org/ Concordia Historical Institute ]<br>801 DeMun Avenue <br>St. Louis, MO 63105 <br>Phone: (314) 505-7900
{{Wisconsin|Wisconsin}}{{USChurch}}  
 
{{-}}</div>  
They have some records of existing Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod congregations and records of some that have closed.
[[Category:Wisconsin, United States|Church]] [[Category:U_S_States_Church_records]]
 
=== Methodist  ===
 
[http://www.wisconsinumc.org/content/index.php Wisconsin Conference United Methodist Church ]<br>750 Windsor Street <br>Sun Prairie, WI 53590 <br>Phone: (608) 837-7328
 
For a history of the Methodist church in Wisconsin, see Pansey S. F. Bennett, ''History of Methodism in Wisconsin'' (Cincinnati, Ohio: Cranston &amp; Stowe, 1980; Family History Library {{FHL|181827|title-id|disp=book 977.5 K2b; film 1036198 item 6}}.)
 
=== Protestant  ===
 
Some church records have been gathered into central repositories or archives. The major denominational repositories are:
 
[http://www.pictonpress.com/store/show/3314 German Immigrants in NW Wisconsin Protestant Church Records]<br>[http://www.pictonpress.com/store/show/3326 German Immigrants in NE Wisconsin Protestant Church Records]<br>[http://www.pictonpress.com/store/show/3333 German Immigrants in SW Wisconsin Protestant Church Records]<br>[http://www.pictonpress.com/store/show/3349 German Immigrants in SE Wisconsin Protestant Church Records]
 
=== Roman Catholic  ===
 
[http://www.archmil.org/archmil/home.htm Archdiocese of Milwaukee ]<br>2000 West Wisconsin Avenue <br>Milwaukee, WI 53403 <br>Phone: (414) 769-3300&nbsp;<br>The church records of the parishes in the above diocese have been microfilmed to about 1920 and are available through the Family History Library. These records include parishes in about eleven counties in southeastern Wisconsin. The records are cataloged by the town where the parish is located.
 
The Archdiocese consists of the following counties: [[Dodge County, Wisconsin|Dodge]], [[Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin|Fond du Lac]], [[Kenosha County, Wisconsin|Kenosha]], [[Milwaukee County, Wisconsin|Milwaukee]], [[Ozaukee County, Wisconsin|Ozaukee]], [[Racine County, Wisconsin|Racine]], [[Sheboygan County, Wisconsin|Sheboygan]], [[Walworth County, Wisconsin|Walworth]], [[Washington County, Wisconsin|Washington]] and [[Waukesha County, Wisconsin|Waukesha]]<ref name="rc" />  
 
[http://www.gbdioc.org/ Diocese of Green Bay<span id="fck_dom_range_temp_1288999755897_765" />] <br>1910 South Webster Avenue<br>P.O. Box 66 <br>Green Bay, WI 54301 <br>Phone: (414) 435-4406 <br>
 
The diocese consists of the following counties: [[Brown County, Wisconsin|Brown]], [[Calumet County, Wisconsin|Calumet]], [[Door County, Wisconsin|Door]], [[Florence County, Wisconsin|Florence]], [[Forest County, Wisconsin|Forest]], [[Kewaunee County, Wisconsin|Kewaunee]], [[Langlade County, Wisconsin|Langlade]], [[Manitowoc County, Wisconsin|Manitowoc]], [[Marinette County, Wisconsin|Marinette]], [[Menominee County, Wisconsin|Menominee]], [[Oconto County, Wisconsin|Oconto]], [[Outagamie County, Wisconsin|Outagamie]], [[Shawano County, Wisconsin|Shawano]], [[Waupaca County, Wisconsin|Waupaca]], [[Waushara County, Wisconsin|Waushara]], and [[Winnebago County, Wisconsin|Winnebago]]<ref name="rc" />
 
[http://www.dioceseoflacrosse.com/ Diocese of La Crosse ]<br>421 Main Street <br>P.O. Box 982 <br>La Crosse, WI 54601<br>Phone: (608) 788-7700<br>The diocese consists of the following counties: [[Adams County, Wisconsin|Adams]], [[Buffalo County, Wisconsin|Buffalo]], [[Chippewa County, Wisconsin|Chippewa]], [[Clark County, Wisconsin|Clark]], [[Crawford County, Wisconsin|Crawford]], [[Dunn County, Wisconsin|Dunn]], [[Eau Claire County, Wisconsin|Eau Claire]], [[Jackson County, Wisconsin|Jackson]], [[Juneau County, Wisconsin|Juneau]], [[La Crosse County, Wisconsin|La Crosse]], [[Marathon County, Wisconsin|Marathon]], [[Monroe County, Wisconsin|Monroe]], [[Pepin County, Wisconsin|Pepin]], [[Pierce County, Wisconsin|Pierce]], [[Portage County, Wisconsin|Portage]], [[Richland County, Wisconsin|Richland]], [[Trempealeau County, Wisconsin|Trempealeau]], [[Vernon County, Wisconsin|Vernon]], [[Wood County, Wisconsin|Wood]]<ref name="rc" />
 
[http://www.madisondiocese.org/ Diocese of Madison ]<br>15 East Wilson Street, Box 111 <br>Madison, WI 53701 <br>Phone: (608) 256-2677<br>
 
The diocese consists of the following counties: [[Columbia County, Wisconsin|Columbia]], [[Dane County, Wisconsin|Dane]], [[Grant County, Wisconsin|Grant]], [[Green County, Wisconsin|Green]], [[Green Lake County, Wisconsin|Green Lake]], [[Iowa County, Wisconsin|Iowa]], [[Jefferson County, Wisconsin|Jefferson]], [[Lafayette County, Wisconsin|Lafayette]], [[Marquette County, Wisconsin|Marquette]], [[Rock County, Wisconsin|Rock]], and [[Sauk County, Wisconsin|Sauk]]<ref name="rc" />
 
[http://www.catholicdos.org/ Diocese of Superior]<br>1201 Hughitt Avenue, Box 969<br>Superior, WI 54880 <br>Phone: (715) 392-2937<br>
 
The diocese consists of the following counties: [[Ashland County, Wisconsin|Ashland]], [[Barron County, Wisconsin|Barron]], [[Bayfield County, Wisconsin|Bayfield]], [[Burnett County, Wisconsin|Burnett]], [[Douglas County, Wisconsin|Douglas]], [[Iron County, Wisconsin|Iron]], [[Lincoln County, Wisconsin|Lincoln]], [[Oneida County, Wisconsin|Oneida]], [[Polk County, Wisconsin|Polk]], [[Price County, Wisconsin|Price]], [[Rusk County, Wisconsin|Rusk]], [[Sawyer County, Wisconsin|Sawyer]], [[St. Croix County, Wisconsin|St. Croix]], [[Taylor County, Wisconsin|Taylor]], [[Vilas County, Wisconsin|Vilas]] and [[Washburn County, Wisconsin|Washburn]].<ref name="rc">[http://www.cdeducation.org/oym/connections/dioceseusmap.htm Map of the Roman Catholic Dioceses in the United States of America], Office of Catholic Schools Diocese of Columbus, accessed 3 Nov 2010.</ref>
 
== Finding Aids  ==
 
There is a current directory of congregations:
 
*''The Official Catholic Directory''. New Providence, New Jersey: P. J. Kenedy &amp; Sons, in association with R. R. Bowker, annual. (Family History Library {{FHL|966906|title-id|disp=book 282.025 Of2}}.) This nationwide directory is available at many public libraries and has addresses and telephone numbers of Roman Catholic churches. The 1936 edition is on Family History Library {{FHL|149830|title-id|disp=fiche 6104166}}.
 
*'''Early U.S. French Catholic Church Records, 1695-1954 (Drouin Collection)''': This database contains the French Catholic parish records from the United States for the following&nbsp;states: Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New York,&nbsp;Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. The types of records include baptisms, marriages, and burials as well as confirmations, dispensations, censuses, statements of readmission to the church, and so on. They are written mainly in French, as well as English, Latin, and Italian.
 
<references />
 
{{Wisconsin|Wisconsin}}
 
[[Category:Wisconsin|Church]]

Latest revision as of 17:58, 12 April 2024

Wisconsin Wiki Topics
Wisconsin flag.png
Beginning Research
Record Types
Wisconsin Background
Cultural Groups
Local Research Resources
St James Episcopal Church Manitowoc

Historical Background

During the 1800s, two major denominations—Catholics and Lutherans—were widely represented in Wisconsin. This was largely because of the tremendous number of German, Polish, and Scandinavian immigrants who settled in the state. Methodists and Baptists were also represented but in much smaller numbers.[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!

Indexes

Dutch Reformed

Presbyterian

Lutheran

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

Wisconsin churches.png

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.

Wisconsin Historical Society

Wisconsin Historical Society
Division of Library, Archives and Museum Collections
816 State Street
Madison, WI 53706
Phone:608-264-6535

Lutheran

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. For a list of some of the records, see:

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

Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod
WELS Archives & Visitor Center
N16W23377 Stone Ridge Drive
Waukesha, WI 53188

Evangelical Lutheran Synod Historical Society
6 Browns Court
Mankato, MN 56001
Contact Us

  • Their mission is to assist local congregations in preserving their records. They may be able to advise researchers on the location of records.


Concordia Historical Institute
801 DeMun Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63105
Phone: (314) 505-7900

  • They have some records of existing Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod congregations and records of some that have closed.
  • Archives Catalog

Methodist

Wisconsin Conference United Methodist Church
750 Windsor Street
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
Phone: (608) 837-7328

Roman Catholic

Archdiocese of Milwaukee
3501 South Lake Drive
PO Box 070912
Milwaukee, WI 53207-0912
Phone: 414-769-3300
Toll-Free: 800-769-9373
Fax: 414-769-3408

The church records of the parishes in the above diocese have been microfilmed to about 1920 and are available through the FamilySearch Library. These records include parishes in about eleven counties in southeastern Wisconsin. The records are cataloged by the town where the parish is located.

The Archdiocese consists of the following counties: Dodge, Fond du Lac, Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Sheboygan, Walworth, Washington and Waukesha[2]

Diocese of Green Bay
Chancery Building
1825 Riverside Drive
Green Bay, WI 54305-3825
Phone: (920) 272-8186, 272-8187, or 272-8195
Fax: (920) 435-1330

The diocese consists of the following counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara, and Winnebago[2]

Diocese of La Crosse
3710 East Ave S
PO Box 4004
La Crosse, Wisconsin 54602-4004
Phone: 608-788-7700
Fax: 608-788-8413

The diocese consists of the following counties: Adams, Buffalo, Chippewa, Clark, Crawford, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson, Juneau, La Crosse, Marathon, Monroe, Pepin, Pierce, Portage, Richland, Trempealeau, Vernon, Wood[2]

Diocese of Madison
702 South High Point Road, Suite 225
Madison, WI 53719
Phone: 608-821-3000
Fax: 608-440-2808
E-mail:communication@madisondiocese.org

  • Archives This page has a link to a list of closed parishes and the location of their records.
  • For more recent records and information, contact the local parish.

The diocese consists of the following counties: Columbia, Dane, Grant, Green, Green Lake, Iowa, Jefferson, Lafayette, Marquette, Rock, and Sauk[2]

Diocese of Superior
Chancellor
PO Box 969
Superior, WI 54880
Telephone: 715-394-0205.

The diocese consists of the following counties: Ashland, Barron, Bayfield, Burnett, Douglas, Iron, Lincoln, Oneida, Polk, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, St. Croix, Taylor, Vilas and Washburn.[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. ↑ Sydney E. Ahlstrom, A Religious History of the American People (New Haven, Conn.: Yale University Press, 1972). FS Library Book 973 K2ah.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 Map of the Roman Catholic Dioceses in the United States of America, Office of Catholic Schools Diocese of Columbus, accessed 3 Nov 2010.
v • d• e
Links to Wisconsin-related articles
Topics
Counties
Extinct Co.
Major
 Repositories
National Archives at Chicago · Wisconsin Historical Society · Wisconsin State Genealogical Society · Wisconsin State Old Cemetery Society · Area Research Centers: 1. Wisconsin Historical Society, 2. University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, 3. University of Wisconsin-Platteville, 4. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, 5. University of Wisconsin-Parkside, 6. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 7. University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, 8. University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, 9. University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, 10. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, 11. University of Wisconsin-Stout, 12. University of Wisconsin-River Falls, 13. Superior Public Library, 14. Northern Great Lake Center · Beloit Public Library · Brown County Library · Kenosha Public Library · Milwaukee County Historical Society · Milwaukee Public Library · Norwegian American Genealogical Center and Naeseth Library · Oshkosh Public Library · Racine Heritage Museum Research Center · University of Wisconsin-Madison Memorial Library · Allen County Public Library · Newberry Library
Migration
 Routes
v • d• e
Links to U.S. Religion Records-related articles
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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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