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52 Weeks to Better Genealogy - Illinois State Archives

[52 Weeks to Better Genealogy is a series of genealogy challenges developed by Amy Coffin of the We Tree blog and hosted by GeneaBloggers]

The Illinois State Archives maintains a variety of records and resources to help the genealogy researcher with roots in the Prairie State.  Managed as part of the Secretary of State's office, the Archives has a strong web-presence with not only online databases but links to helpful information for family history researchers.

Online Databases

While it isn't possible to list each and every database available online, here are some highlights:
Illinois Regional Archives Depositories (IRAD)

In addition to those  records held by the Archives, several regional universities across the state act as depositories for specific collections.  With over 40 such databases covering wills, probate cases, coroners' inquests and more, a researcher could spend hours finding crucial information on their Illinois ancestors.

Conclusion

Take a moment to visit the Illinois State Archives holdings online and consult their helpful Genealogy in the Illinois State Archives page for how-to pamphlets for each type of record.

© 2010, copyright Illinois State Genealogical Society

Comments

KevinW said…
I am a newbie, and a resident of DuPage county. Where can I learn the specifics of IRAD? Do they duplicate what is in the courthouses, or house what was in the courthouses? I want to know where is best for me to go to chase down information. Thanks!