*TIP: Beginning a Search
Collecting vital records is an important first step in geneology research. There are primary and secondary sources of information. Primary sources are those documented shortly after the original event by someone with first-hand knowledge. Secondary sources provide clues for further research.
THE DARKE COUNTY RESEARCH CENTER
If you are researching family history or doing historical research you know that the most reliable information comes from original documents or first-hand accounts from someone who has known the individual or witnessed the event. Garst Museum’s Research Center has many of these sources and would be a good place to include in your research journey.
Sources for research include:
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Birth, Marriage and death records
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Probate records
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Census records
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Church records
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Military records
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Land records
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Newspaper articles
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Draper Papers
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Surname files of over 5,000 families
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Native American historical information
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Information from Darke and surrounding counties
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Original estate records from Darke County from 1817 through 1893
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Genealogy information from Maryland, New Jersey, Virginia, Pennsylvania and New York
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2 computers with access to Ancestry.com
The library is staffed with experienced volunteers to guide you as you work. Please note that you cannot borrow documents but you can make copies using the library’s copier.
The Genealogy library has made recent improvements. Thanks to the efforts of the genealogy staff and the Darke County Genealogical Society, a redesign of the library’s shelving and study area has been accomplished. This will make the area more comfortable and access to materials easier.
Fees:
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Darke County Genealogy Society Member = $9.00 per visit
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Garst Museum Member = FREE
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All Other Visitors = Regular Museum Admission Fee Applies
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Copies $.15 per page
For more information, please contact us at 937-548-5250 or genealogy@garstmuseum.org.