Genealogy Research
The Madison County Clerk's office provides copies of vital records for the purpose of genealogical research. In 1916, it became law in the state of Illinois for counties to keep vital records. We began keeping vital records well before it became law.
- Births were recorded beginning in the late 1800’s
- Marriage records date back 1813
- Death were recorded beginning in 1878
Under Illinois law, genealogical records are defined as:
- Birth certificates older than 75 years.
- Marriage certificates older than 20 years.
- Death certificates older than 20 years.
All genealogical records issued by the Clerk's office are NOT considered certified documents and stamped "For Genealogical Purposes Only."
| Document | Cost |
| Birth | $5; and $2 for each additional copy |
| Marriage | $5; and $2 for each additional copy |
| Death | $5; and $2 for each additional copy |
Other sources you can contact directly may be helpful in your search and locating records:
To obtain a genealogical record, you must:
- Fill out and sign a request form. Download the vital records form you will need in PDF format.
- Pay the required fee (see above).
- Mail or deliver the form to the Madison County Clerk's office:
Mail your request to:
Debbie Ming-Mendoza
Madison County Clerk
157 N. Main Street, Suite 109
P.O. Box 218
Edwardsville, IL. 62025-0218
Include the following items:
- A completed vital records form
- a check or money order payable to the Madison County Clerk
Download the vital records form you will need in PDF format.
Visit us in person
Madison County Clerk
157 N. Main Street, Suite 109
P.O. Box 218
Edwardsville, IL. 62025-0218
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday
