Research: Topics: Genealogy Topics :
Vital Records Indexes
New York began statewide registration of births, marriages, and deaths in 1880- 81. (New York City and a few communities upstate have some vital records pre-dating 1880.) The State Archives makes available for on-site use copies of New York State Department of Health microfiche indexes to birth, marriage, and death certificates filed with that Department. The indexes commence in 1880-81 and cover the entire state outside New York City. Index entries give only name, date, place of event, and State certificate number. Indexes for births become available for use by the public after 75 years, for marriages and deaths after 50 years.
To obtain copies or abstracts of birth, marriage, or death certificates for genealogical purposes, contact New York State Department of Health, Vital Records Section, Corning Tower Building ESP, Albany, NY 12237-0023; or the local (city, town, or village) registrar of vital statistics. Older New York City vital records are held by the New York City Municipal Archives, 31 Chambers Street (Room 103), New York, NY 10007.