Iowa Genealogy Records

To begin, add a genealogy record or view a list of locations and resources for Iowa genealogy records.

The 29th state of the United States, Iowa initially found statehood in 1846. The first American settlers officially moved to Iowa in June 1833 sharing the land with the Native American tribe who lived there. This sharing of land and cultures can lead to difficulty in locating family history, however, the results can be very rewarding.

Most Iowa genealogy records can be obtained from the Bureau of Health Statistics. From birth and death records to marriage and divorce records, you should be able to find all of the information you're looking for. It is essential to remember, however, that official records of all of these events didn't begin until 1880. The state registrar is a great place to begin looking for genealogical records.

All requests for Iowa genealogy records must be in writing and completely identify the record, as well as satisfactorily establish entitlement to the record being requested. However, certified copies of birth, death, or marriage certificates may be obtained from the state office of vital records by telephone, in-person, or through a postal service.