Ancestry Library Edition
Find out more about your background with Ancestry. Records from the U. S. Census; military records; court, land and probate records; birth, death, and marriage records; church records; directories; petitions for naturalization; passenger lists, international records, and more are available.
This database is only accessible while visiting the Library.
Chicago Tribune Historical Archives Chicago Tribune (1849-1990)
An obituary can be one of the most important documents in genealogy research, providing crucial clues, context, and other information, often leading to important research breakthroughs.
Use the Advanced Search page of the Chicago Tribune's Historical Archives to look specifically for obituaries dating back to 1849.
Proquest Extended Resources
African American Heritage (AAH):
Search essential historical records for African Americans, including Federal Census, Marriage and Cohabitation Records, Military Draft and Service Records, Registers of Slaves and Free(d) Persons of Color, Freedman's Bank, and more. https://africanamericanheritage.proquest.com
Fold3 Library Edition (FOLD3):
Fold3® provides convenient access to military records, including the stories, photos, and personal documents of the men and women who served.
https://fold3library.proquest.com/?accountid=31428
Heritage Quest Online (HQO):
https://www.heritagequestonline.com
Additional Online Resources
Genealogy
Access Genealogy: Search census, birth, marriage and death records. This is a good place to start Native American and African American genealogical research.
Chicago Ancestors: This tool from the Newberry Library includes Cook County vital records, city directories and links to government resources.
FamilySearch.org: Sign up for a free account to start work on a family tree. Search user-generated genealogical information as well as census, birth, death and marriage records.
Find a Grave: Through this site you’ll find details about cemeteries and individual memorials for people buried in those cemeteries.
Illinois State Archives: Military records, death and marriage records, court records and more are searchable at the Illinois Secretary of State’s web site.
Illinois State Genealogical Society: Learn more about genealogical research with webinars, forums and links to more free research tools.
MyHeritage: Download free software to start work on a family tree. Search birth, death and marriage records, military records, immigration records and more.
USGenWeb: Get genealogical research help from volunteers. This site is a gateway to state and county affiliates of this national organization.
