Illinois Record Finder

This table can help you decide which records to search. It is most helpful for post-1850 research. 1. In column 1, select a research goal. 2. In column 2, find the types of records most likely to have the information you need. 3. In column 3, find additional record types that may be useful. 4. Look in the section of this outline that corresponds to the record type you chose. It explains what the records might tell you, how to search them, and how to find the records in the Family History Library Catalog using the Locality Search. Some records are not at the library. 5. If you do not find the desired information, see the United States Records Selection Table for more suggestions. Note: Records of previous research (Genealogy, Biography, History, Periodicals, and Societies) are useful for most goals, but are not listed unless they are especially helpful.