Finding Obituaries in Old Colony Memorial Newspaper Archives: A Comprehensive Guide

Tracing your family history can be a rewarding but challenging journey. One of the most valuable resources for genealogists is old newspapers, particularly those containing obituaries. The Old Colony Memorial, with its rich history covering Plymouth County, Massachusetts, is a treasure trove of genealogical information. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to effectively search for obituaries within its archives.

Why Search the Old Colony Memorial Archives?

The Old Colony Memorial boasts a long and extensive publication history, documenting the lives and deaths of residents of Plymouth County for generations. Obituaries found within its pages often include invaluable details such as:

• Full Names and Birthdates: Essential for accurate genealogical records.
• Parents' Names: A crucial link in building your family tree.
• Spouses' Names and Birthdates: Connecting family branches.
• Children's Names: Expanding your family lineage.
• Places of Residence: Pinpointing locations and migration patterns.
• Occupation: Understanding family history and social standing.
• Death Date and Location: Completing vital records.
• Burial Information: Leading to potential cemetery records.

Methods for Searching Old Colony Memorial Obituaries

Accessing the Old Colony Memorial archives requires a multi-pronged approach:

1. Online Databases:

Several online databases may offer access to digitized Old Colony Memorial archives. These often require subscriptions, but the cost is often worth the convenience. Popular options include:

• Ancestry.com: A widely used genealogical database with extensive newspaper archives. (Note: This is an example; replace with relevant affiliate link if applicable)
• Newspapers.com: Another comprehensive resource for historical newspaper searches. (Note: This is an example; replace with relevant affiliate link if applicable)
• FamilySearch.org: A free resource offered by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, containing a growing collection of digitized newspapers.

Tips for Online Searches:

• Use variations of names: Try different spellings and nicknames.
• Specify date ranges: Narrow your search by birth or death year.
• Include relevant locations: Specify towns or cities within Plymouth County.
• Use Boolean operators: Employ "AND," "OR," and "NOT" to refine your search.

2. Local Libraries and Historical Societies:

Many local libraries and historical societies within Plymouth County may possess physical copies of the Old Colony Memorial or microfilm versions. Contacting these institutions is crucial, especially for records not yet digitized. Remember to check their hours and policies regarding access to their archives.

3. Plymouth County Archives:

The Plymouth County Archives itself might hold a significant collection of Old Colony Memorial newspapers. It's highly recommended to contact them directly to inquire about their holdings and access procedures.

Tips for Effective Obituary Research

• Be patient: Genealogical research requires time and persistence.
• Document your findings: Keep detailed notes on each obituary discovered.
• Cross-reference information: Compare information across multiple sources to ensure accuracy.
• Consider contacting local historical societies: Experts in local history can provide invaluable insights.

Conclusion

Finding obituaries in the Old Colony Memorial archives can be a rewarding experience, unlocking valuable pieces of your family history. By utilizing a combination of online databases, local libraries, and historical societies, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Remember to be patient, persistent, and methodical in your approach. Happy searching!