Archives and Records
Genealogical Resources
The Archives of the Archdiocese of Seattle has resources which may be of interest to genealogists. We can answer specific questions regarding the sacraments of baptism, first communion, confirmation, marriage and death. Genealogical research is conducted on the first and third Friday of each month.
What is a sacramental record?
A sacramental record is a record of baptism, first communion, confirmation, marriage or death. First and foremost these records are created with the presumption of privacy and to document a sacred rite of the Catholic Church. They are not created with the intention of being a resource for modern day genealogists. The registers themselves are not open for examination. Requests for these records must be made in writing. If the requested record can be located one will be provided with an accurate transcription by the Archives staff. Fees are charged beginning at $15.00. In order to locate a specific record certain information is necessary such as the name of the person, date of the sacrament and the name of the church or city where the sacrament was administered.
What kind of sacramental records can be found in the Archives of the Archdiocese of Seattle?
Sacramental records created by pioneer priests (1848 - 1900), early sacramental registers of St. James, Vancouver (1838 - 1900), as well as other 19th and early 20th century parish and institutional registers are located at the Archives. These records are of particular interest to those wishing to to trace family histories or reclaim lost heritage. The records of St. James, Vancouver have been published in "Catholic Church Records of the Pacific Northwest, Vancouver and the Stellamaris Mission."
What kind of information can be found in a sacramental record?
Baptismal Records: Name at time of baptism, date of birth, parents' names sometimes including mother's maiden names, sponsors' names, sometimes place of birth, sometimes name of tribe if the person is Native American, name of priest. The record will not provide the names of any children the person may have had. Nor will there be any biographical information on the parents. There is no record of regular church attendance or education.
First Communion Records: The name of the person who received the sacrament and the name of the priest. Not all parishes maintain a first communion register.
Confirmation Records: Name of the person, sponsor and priest.
Marriage Records: Groom's name, bride's maiden name, witnesses, date of marriage and priest. Offspring of the married couple are not listed in the record.
Death Records: Name of person, date of death and place of internment.
How can a sacramental record be obtained?
There is no central index or database for sacramental records. The records are arranged by city and church. In order to locate a specific record it is necessary to have an approximate date and the name or location of the church. This is especially crucial information when requesting records from churches in Seattle. If you do not know the name of the church an address will help determine which church. Past addresses can be obtained from sources such as old city directories which can usually be found at your local public library.
To view policies regarding registers and to access the sacramental records request form, see Sacramental Records