Baldwin County AL

Baldwin County AL, located in the southwestern part of Alabama, is the largest county in the state by area and was established on December 21, 1809. It has a rich genealogical history, with records dating back to the early 19th century that are invaluable for researchers tracing family lineages. The county seat, Bay Minette, replaced Daphne in 1901 due to strategic economic reasons related to the timber and railroad industries. Baldwin County’s geographic features, including its significant coastline along the Gulf of Mexico and the presence of the Tensaw River in the eastern part of the county, have played a crucial role in its development and history. This region was historically inhabited by the Mound Builders, followed by the Creek Native American tribe, before European settlement. Its location made it a strategic point for trade and military defense, especially during the War of 1812 and the Civil War. For genealogists, Baldwin County offers a wide array of records, including land transactions, military records, and vital statistics, that reflect the diverse history of settlers, including Spanish, French, British, and American influences, making it a rich area for historical and genealogical research.

Alabama Mortality Census Records

1850 Madison County Alabama Mortality Schedule optimized

The 1850, 1860, 1870, 1880, and 1885 censuses included inquiries about persons who had died in the twelve months immediately preceding the enumeration. The 1850, 1960, 1870, and 1880 mortality census for Alabama all survived. Mortality schedules list deaths from 1 June through 31 May of 1849–50, 1859–60, 1869–70, 1879–80, and 1884–85. They provide nationwide, state-by-state death registers that predate the recording of vital statistics in most states. While deaths are under-reported, the mortality schedules remain an invaluable source of information.

Journey of Bartram Through Alabama

History of Alabama and incidentally of Georgia and Mississippi, from the earliest period

William Bartram traveled through the Creek Nation and Mobile, where he observed a town with a mix of inhabited and abandoned structures, primarily occupied by the French and British settlers. He noted the prominent Indian trade conducted by Swanson and McGillivray and described the well-managed plantations along the Tensaw River. In Pensacola, Bartram received warm hospitality from local officials. His journey also included visits to various plantations and Indian towns, culminating with his return to Mobile and further travels into the Creek territory with a caravan of traders.

The Creek War – Indian Wars

In the spring of 1812, Tecumseh inspired Southern tribes, including the Creeks, to join hostilities against American settlers. Despite initial reluctance, the Creeks engaged in violent raids, culminating in the surprise attack on Fort Mimms in August 1814, resulting in significant casualties. General Andrew Jackson led retaliatory campaigns, ultimately defeating the Creeks at the Battle of Tohopeka in March 1815. The conflict ended with the Treaty of Hickory Ground, marking the subjugation of the Creek nation and their relocation east of the Coosa River.

Baldwin County, Alabama Marriage Records

The Baldwin County, Alabama Marriage Records are accessible online through the Alabama USGenWeb Archives Project. The collection spans from 1809 to 1969, offering vital details such as the names of brides and grooms alongside marriage dates. It includes records from various periods, including specific ranges from 1900 to 1950, as well as early records from 1810 to 1825 and 1845 to 1889. This resource is invaluable for researchers exploring the region’s marital history.

Baldwin County, Alabama Census Records

This page provides links to online census resources for Baldwin County, Alabama, during the years of 1820-1930. Available records may include federal, state, or special censuses, with transcriptions, indexes, or images depending on source. External sites supply the data for each census year.

Baldwin County, Alabama Cemetery Records

This page lists known online cemetery transcriptions, burial records, and gravestone images for Baldwin county in Alabama. Resources vary by cemetery and may include full surveys, partial records, mapping, or photographs. Links lead to external sites providing the available data.