Genealogical Sources

Genealogical Sources

Cemetery records particular to the cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago are designed to give immediate and specific cemetery associated information to authorized parties. For example, the location of a person's burial place can be provided immediately.

More detailed information, while sometimes retrievable, is time consuming. Cemetery records were never set up with the expectation that they would also provide extensive data for genealogical research. Currently there is no master or comprehensive list of burials and entombment's of all the cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago in one central location. Records for each individual cemetery are kept only at the individual cemetery.

While there has always been some passing interest in this type of research, the interest has grown considerably in recent years. Our older cemeteries particularly have seen an increase in requests for genealogical information. It has therefore become necessary to put some limitations on these requests so that the normal service of the cemetery to its lot holders is not impaired. Many genealogical research cases require an hour or more of personnel time.

We are happy to provide this information to you, but because of the volume, we must schedule it in an orderly fashion. To submit a Genealogical Search Request click here.

Under normal circumstances, you can expect a response within thirty days. At certain times of the year, when cemetery visiting is heavy and service to lot holders is considerable, there may be a slightly longer wait.

We believe we can serve you with greater effectiveness in this manner, and we ask your cooperation.

Listed below are some additional sources for genealogical information that may provide more details than we have available: