Probate Records
Probate records are among the most valuable genealogical and historical research sources. Researchers may use them to obtain information on family relationships, transfer of property/land, and guardianship. Probate records are created by probate courts and/or county courts. The Area Research Center has the probate records for several counties within its region. There are two main types of probate records: case files and case file indexes. Most of the indexes are arranged alphabetically by name. If a case file cannot be found with the index information, alternative court documents will need to be used to research an individual's name. Many probate records are restricted and cannot be seen without permission from a probate/county court judge. Below is a list of the major probate records held by the Area Research Center:
| County | Years Held In Our Repository |
|---|---|
| Brown | 1821-1921 |
| Manitowoc | 1864-1959 |
| Marinette | 1924-1927 |
| Oconto | 1857-1923 |
| Outagamie | 1853-1958 |
If you are seeking probate case files from a Wisconsin County not listed above, you should contact the Register in Probate at that county's courthouse.