How Do I Find an Obituary from Years Ago?
Hey readers,
Today, we’re diving into the world of obituaries! Maybe you’re looking for information about a long-lost relative or want to honor the memory of someone special. Whatever the reason, finding an obituary from years ago can be a daunting task. But fear not, because we’re here to help you navigate the labyrinth of bygone obituaries. So, let’s embark on this journey together and discover how to find that elusive obituary you’re seeking!
Search Local Newspapers
Online Archives and Databases
Local newspapers often publish obituaries within their archives. Many of these archives are now available online, making it convenient to search through years of past editions. Start by identifying the newspapers that were likely to have published the obituary you’re looking for. Check the newspaper’s website or contact their customer service for access to digital archives.
Microfilm and Hard Copies
If online archives don’t yield results, you can visit local libraries or historical societies that may have physical copies of newspapers. They usually have microfilm or hard copies dating back several decades. Request assistance to locate the appropriate rolls or bound volumes for your search.
Utilize Online Resources
Ancestry.com and other Genealogy Websites
Ancestry.com and similar genealogy websites are treasure troves of historical information, including obituaries. They have vast collections of digitized obituaries from various sources, including newspapers, funeral homes, and family archives. Take advantage of their search engines to narrow down your search by name, location, and date.
Google Newspaper Archive and Other Search Engines
Google Newspaper Archive is an extensive online database containing millions of newspaper pages from the 18th century to present. Use their advanced search filters to search for obituaries based on keywords and publication dates. Additionally, try other search engines like Bing or Yahoo, which may have their own archives of historical newspapers.
Seek Help from Funeral Homes
Contact Funeral Homes
If you know which funeral home handled the arrangements, consider contacting them directly. They may have digital or physical copies of the obituary on file. Explain your situation and request assistance in locating the document. Be prepared to provide details like the name of the deceased and the approximate date of death.
Visit Funeral Home Websites
Many funeral homes now have websites where they publish obituaries of recently deceased individuals. Even if the obituary you seek is not listed online, it’s worth checking their website for contact information or guidance on how to obtain older obituaries.
Check Online Obituaries Archives
Legacy.com and Findagrave.com
Legacy.com is a popular website that archives obituaries from thousands of newspapers and funeral homes across the country. Use their search engine to search by name, location, or publication date. Similarly, Findagrave.com is a vast database of cemetery records, including obituaries for many deceased individuals.
Other Specialized Websites
There are also specialized websites dedicated to archiving obituaries from specific regions or ethnic groups. For example, ObitsforLife.com focuses on African American obituaries, while JewishGen.org has a large collection of Jewish obituaries. Explore these websites to expand your search options.
Table: Obituary Search Resources
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Local Newspapers (Online Archives and Microfilm) | Check newspaper archives for digitized or physical copies of obituaries. |
| Genealogy Websites (Ancestry.com) | Search vast collections of obituaries from various sources, including newspapers and family archives. |
| Search Engines (Google Newspaper Archive) | Use advanced search filters to find obituaries in online newspaper archives. |
| Funeral Homes | Contact or visit funeral homes to inquire about obituaries on file or available online. |
| Online Obituaries Archives (Legacy.com) | Search a comprehensive database of obituaries from newspapers and funeral homes nationwide. |
| Specialized Websites (ObitsforLife.com) | Explore websites dedicated to archiving obituaries from specific regions or ethnic groups. |
Conclusion
Finding an obituary from years ago can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor. By utilizing the resources discussed in this article, you’ll increase your chances of uncovering that elusive piece of information. Whether you seek to connect with your family history, honor the memory of a loved one, or simply satisfy your curiosity, we hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights and pointers. If you’re curious about other topics related to genealogy or historical records, be sure to check out our other articles. Thank you for reading!
FAQ about Finding Obituaries from Years Ago
Q1: Where can I find an obituary from years ago?
A: You can search online databases like Legacy.com, Findagrave.com, and Ancestry.com. You can also check local newspapers, funeral homes, and libraries.
Q2: How far back can I search online for obituaries?
A: Most databases allow you to search up to 75 years back.
Q3: What information should I have to search for an obituary?
A: At least the deceased’s name and approximate date of death. Additional details like location or newspaper name can help narrow the search.
Q4: What if the online search doesn’t yield results?
A: Contact local newspapers, funeral homes, or libraries in the area where the person lived or died. They may have archives or microfilms.
Q5: How do I access microfilmed obituaries?
A: Visit the library or historical society that has the microfilms. Use a microfilm reader to view and print the obituaries.
Q6: Are there any fees involved in accessing obituaries?
A: Some online databases may charge a fee for access to older or premium records. Microfilmed obituaries may also have printing fees.
Q7: How can I contact the family of the deceased?
A: Obituaries often include contact information for family members or funeral homes. You can reach out to them to inquire about the deceased.
Q8: What if I don’t know the exact date of death?
A: Search using a range of dates or keywords related to the person or event (e.g., "John Doe" AND "cancer").
Q9: How can I verify the authenticity of an obituary?
A: Contact the funeral home or newspaper that published it directly. Check for consistency across multiple sources (e.g., online databases, local newspapers).
Q10: Can I get a physical copy of an obituary?
A: If the obituary is available online, you can print it out. You may also be able to order a physical copy from the newspaper or funeral home.
