The descendancy must be proven by using the records on the Sources list. In special cases, where this is not possible, a preponderance of evidence will be accepted. After completion of the application, send in the amount of $10.00 in either cash, check payable to HCHS, or purchase via the online bookstore. This amount is needed for each certificate you are applying for. This is a nonrefundable fee. Below is a list of acceptable sources:
- Vital Records (Birth, Death or Marriage Records)
- Church Records (Membership, Baptism or Confirmation)
- Mortuary or Cemetery Records
- Probate Records
- Land Records (Land Purchase, Plat Maps, Atlas or Deeds)
- Tax Records
- Federal or State Census Records
- Military Records
- Court Records (Wills, Deeds or Estate Records)
- Official School Records, School Census or Report Cards
- Declaration of Intent for Citizenship or Naturalization Papers
- Bible Records Confirming Residence in Hancock County
- Newspaper Obituary or Article Showing Hancock County Residency
- Hancock County History Books (Submit Source and Copy of Article)
- Letters, Diary Entries or Journals
- Tombstone Inscriptions
All proof offered must show a complete source: such as author, title, year of publication, page numbers, volume number, type of document and/or location of original document. Do Not Send Original Documents. Please Submit Copies Only.
A committee of HCHS members shall determine certificate eligibility. The committee decision shall be final.
It is absolutely necessary
to include a straight line descendancy chart showing your relationship to the pioneer/early settler. Additional certificates for other family members will also cost $10.00. Each must be on a separate application and prove relationship only to the applicant.
Note:
Source materials that are provided may be copied if you are applying for more than one ancestor.
For further information or assistance, call (217) 357-004, email info@hancockcountyhistory.com, or come by the office at 306 Walnut Street in Carthage, Illinois. Our office is located in the front room of the Kibbe Museum.