T. Elmer Cox
Genealogical &
Historical Library

Probate is the court procedure by which a will is proved to be valid or invalid and encompasses all matters and proceedings pertaining to the administration of estates, guardianships, etc. Various types of records are found in probate files. These may include, wills, bonds, petitions, accounts, inventories, administrations, orders, decrees, and distributions. These documents are extremely valuable to genealogists and in many instances, they are the only known source of relevant information such as the decedent’s date of death, names of his or her spouse, children, parents, siblings, in-laws, neighbors, associates, relatives, and their places of residence. They may also include information about adoption or guardianship of minor children and dependents. 

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To access our wills & probate records, click the photo.