Maryland Genealogy Records

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

Maryland history is filled with unique people who led intriguing lives. These figures in Maryland could be your ancestors. With this rich history, there is much to find when searching for Maryland genealogy records.

In Maryland, the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is responsible for vital statistics. They record each birth, death, marriage, and divorce. Unfortunately, Maryland didn't offer birth or death certificates until 1898, so it can be tough to locate genealogy records in Maryland prior to that date.

The Vital Statistics Administration issues copies of marriage certificates that took place after 1989. For marriages performed before 1990, the best place to look is with the circuit court clerk in each individual county. Divorce decrees and annulments are also kept on file by the circuit court clerks, but the vital statistics office can verify that a divorce took place.

The Maryland State Archives are another wonderful source of information. They are an excellent source for Maryland genealogy records. As Maryland is cognizant of the ability to steal an identity through vital records, access to birth records is restricted for 100 years from the date of birth.