Experts Reveal What’s Behind Death Records in Lancaster, PA: A Beginner's Guide

Unraveling the story of a life can be a fascinating journey. Often, that journey begins with a death record. For those researching genealogy, local history, or even just trying to understand their family's past, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, offers a rich tapestry of historical records, including death records. However, navigating these records can seem daunting. This guide aims to demystify the process, offering a beginner-friendly explanation of what death records in Lancaster, PA, contain, where to find them, and common pitfalls to avoid.

What are Death Records?

At their core, death records are official documents created to record the passing of an individual. They serve multiple purposes, from legal and statistical tracking to providing information about the deceased's life. Think of them as a snapshot of a person's existence at the moment of their death, and a reflection of their life leading up to it.

What Information Do Death Records Typically Contain?

While the specific information can vary depending on the era and the recording practices of the time, death records in Lancaster, PA, typically contain some or all of the following:

  • Deceased's Full Name: The name the individual was known by at the time of death. Be aware that names can be recorded differently over time (e.g., nicknames, variations in spelling).

  • Date and Place of Death: This is crucial for verification. It indicates when and where the person passed away. "Place of Death" can range from a specific address to a general location like "Lancaster County Almshouse".

  • Date and Place of Birth: While not always present, this information is invaluable for confirming you've found the correct individual.

  • Age at Death: This can be helpful if you only have an approximate birth year.

  • Cause of Death: This provides insight into the circumstances surrounding the death. Medical terminology can be challenging to understand, but online resources and historical medical dictionaries can be helpful.

  • Occupation: This reveals the deceased's profession or type of work.

  • Marital Status: Whether the person was single, married, widowed, or divorced.

  • Spouse's Name: If the person was married, the record often includes the spouse's name.

  • Parents' Names: This is a goldmine for genealogical research, allowing you to trace your family tree back further.

  • Informant: This is the person who provided the information for the death record. This could be a family member, a doctor, or even an undertaker. Knowing the informant can give you clues about the deceased's social circle.

  • Place of Burial: Where the person was interred. This can lead you to cemetery records and further information.

  • Undertaker/Funeral Home: The name of the business that handled the funeral arrangements.

    • Where Can You Find Death Records in Lancaster, PA?

    Locating death records in Lancaster, PA, requires a strategic approach. Here are some key resources:

  • Lancaster County Archives: This is the official repository for many historical records, including death records. They may have indexes, digitized records, and staff who can assist you in your search. Check their website for hours, contact information, and online resources.

  • LancasterHistory.org: This organization holds a vast collection of historical materials related to Lancaster County, including genealogical resources and some death record indexes.

  • FamilySearch.org: This free website, run by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has digitized and indexed millions of records worldwide, including many from Pennsylvania. Search their collections specifically for Lancaster County.

  • Ancestry.com: A subscription-based website with extensive genealogical resources, including death records, census records, and more. They often have digitized images of original records.

  • FindAGrave.com: While not a primary source for death records, FindAGrave can provide information about burial locations and often includes transcriptions of headstones, which may contain birth and death dates.

  • Local Libraries: Libraries in Lancaster County often have local history collections that may include indexes or transcriptions of death records.

  • Church Records: Many churches kept their own records of births, marriages, and deaths, especially before official government registration became widespread. Check with the historical societies or archives associated with specific denominations.

    • Common Pitfalls to Avoid:

    Searching for death records isn't always straightforward. Here are some common pitfalls to be aware of:

  • Spelling Variations: Names can be spelled differently in different records. Be flexible with your search terms and consider using wildcards (e.g., "Smith*" to find Smith, Smyth, etc.).

  • Missing Records: Not all deaths were recorded, especially in earlier periods. Records may have been lost, damaged, or never created in the first place.

  • Illegible Handwriting: Older records can be difficult to read. Try different search strategies and consult with experienced researchers if you're struggling to decipher the handwriting.

  • Incorrect Information: Information provided on death records may not always be accurate. The informant may have been mistaken or provided incomplete information. Always corroborate information with other sources.

  • Name Changes: People sometimes changed their names, making it difficult to track them across different records.

  • Assuming Correlation: Just because you find a death record with a similar name and general location doesn't guarantee it's the person you're looking for. Double-check all available information to confirm the match.

  • Jurisdictional Issues: Be aware of the changing boundaries of Lancaster County. A death that occurred in an area that was once part of Lancaster County might now be in a different county.

Practical Examples:

Let's say you're looking for the death record of John Smith who you believe died in Lancaster County around 1850.

1. Start with FamilySearch or Ancestry: Search for "John Smith" and "Lancaster County, Pennsylvania" with a death year range of 1840-1860.
2. Review the Results: Carefully examine each potential match, paying attention to birthdates, spouse's names, and parents' names.
3. Check Lancaster County Archives: If you find a promising lead, visit the Lancaster County Archives website or contact them directly to see if they have the original record.
4. Explore Cemetery Records: Search FindAGrave for "John Smith" in Lancaster County to see if you can find a burial record that matches your information.
5. Consider Church Records: If you know John Smith's religious affiliation, check with the historical society or archives associated with that denomination for possible death records.

Conclusion:

Researching death records in Lancaster, PA, can be a rewarding experience. By understanding the types of information available, knowing where to look, and being aware of potential pitfalls, you can successfully uncover valuable insights into the lives of your ancestors and the history of this vibrant region. Remember to be patient, persistent, and enjoy the journey of discovery! Don't be afraid to seek help from local historical societies or experienced genealogists if you get stuck. Happy researching!