Rattling Bones: Cause of Death

Why do we care so much about death in genealogy? Death is the final event in an individual’s life, as well as where you begin to research a family member. Discover the history of death records in the United States, from ledger entries to the death certificates we recognize today, and why obituaries are not the best place to start. Public health’s impact on death recording will also be covered, along with tips, tricks and resources to help you dig up your ancestors’ last vital record.