Lancaster County Archives Historical Indexes

This page offers quick access to a range of historical indexes available at the Lancaster County, Pennsylvania archives, which are valuable for genealogical research. These resources include indexes for wills, deeds, probate records, Orphans’ Court records, estate files, and more. Researchers can efficiently navigate through these records to trace family histories and gather details on ancestors from Lancaster County. Each index is organized to help locate relevant documents that provide critical information such as dates, property ownership, family connections, and other vital data crucial for genealogical research.

The Lancaster County Archives, founded in 1975, serves as the official repository for permanent records generated by the County Courts. This collection includes vital documents such as wills, deeds, and commissioner minutes, tracing back to Lancaster County’s establishment in 1729. These records offer a window into the county’s deep history and the lives of its residents. Due to their age and delicate condition, many records are preserved on microfilm or as digital images for researchers. Historians, genealogists, title searchers, and engineers frequently utilize the archive’s resources. See the Lancaster County Archives Brochure for more information.

Account Index (1729-1934)

Recorded copies of estate proceedings detail the remaining debts and assets of deceased individuals. Account records before 1850 can be found in Miscellaneous Dockets, while those after 1850 are documented in separate Account or Distribution Dockets.

Birth Registrations (1852-1855)

Starting in 1852, Pennsylvania counties were mandated to have their register of wills maintain separate birth registrations. However, this legislation was short-lived and was repealed in 1855, resulting in a narrow window of years for these vital records. The birth register includes an index in the front section, with names organized chronologically by the date of recording. It’s important to note that not all births were registered as required by this law. Researchers are encouraged to also consult church records for additional sources of birth information.

Birth Registrations (Delayed) (1870-1906)

In 1941, legislation authorized delayed birth registrations to provide proof of birth for individuals born before 1906. The Delayed Birth Registration Index lists over 8,000 names of Lancaster County residents born between 1870 and 1906. Originally filed in the Orphans’ Court, these records include details such as the petitioner’s birth date and location, parents’ information, the number of children born to the petitioner’s mother, the number of surviving children, and the petitioner’s original signature. Additionally, they contain affidavits from religious officials, friends, and relatives. These records are particularly valuable for genealogical research, as they cover a period before Pennsylvania began issuing state birth and death certificates in 1906.

Birth Registrations (1881-1906) (Lancaster City)

In accordance with state laws, Lancaster City residents reported births to the Board of Health during this period. These records serve as a crucial resource for locating birth information prior to 1906, when Pennsylvania began officially maintaining birth records. However, not all births in Lancaster City were captured in this register, so researchers should also explore church records for additional information. This index provides only the child’s name, date of birth, and page number from the original record. If a child’s first name was not listed, only the father’s last name is indexed. If the father’s name is absent, the record is indexed under the mother’s last name. To obtain details such as parent names, occupation, residence, and physician’s name, it is recommended to request copies of the original record.

Birth Registrations (1893-1907)

Starting in June 1893, all Pennsylvania Clerks of the Orphans’ Court were mandated to maintain separate birth records. Township and borough assessors collected this information, recording the child’s full name, parents’ names, residence, father’s occupation, and the date and place of birth. As Pennsylvania began issuing official birth certificates in 1906, this practice was gradually phased out at the county level. The birth register is organized alphabetically by the first letter of the individual’s surname and chronologically by the date recorded. However, some births were recorded several months later, and not all births were registered. To quickly navigate to the appropriate surname section, use the bookmark feature within the index.

Bonds & Commissions Index (1811-1965)

Bonds were posted by public officials as a guarantee for fulfilling their duties, while commissions (oaths) were taken by officials to faithfully perform their responsibilities and uphold the U.S. Constitution. These records include the official’s name, title, bond amount, and conditions of obligation for various county positions such as Commissioner, Coroner, Prothonotary, Recorder, Register of Wills, Sheriff, and Treasurer. Additional records cover aldermen, courthouse clerks, judges, and notary publics. After this period, these records were incorporated into regular deed books. The index is organized alphabetically by the first letter of the surname, followed by chronological order based on the filing date. The single letters in the left margin indicate the second letter of the last name. To quickly find the desired surname section, use the bookmark feature within the index.

Charter Index (1849-1961) (Recorder of Deeds)

Starting in 1849, charters were separately maintained by the Recorder of Deeds in the docket titled General Manufacturing Book #1. These charters, also known as “articles of incorporation,” began being formally recorded in 1874 following Pennsylvania legislation that regulated and provided for the incorporation of certain corporations. Charters created before 1849 were recorded in Deed Books. For additional related records, researchers should consult Charter Petitions originally filed in the Prothonotary Office.

Charter Petition Index (1874-1973) (Prothonotary)

Petitions for charters were filed in the civil courts and include details such as the court term, case number, names of petitioners, and the organization involved. In addition to being filed in the civil courts, charters were also recorded separately in the Recorder of Deeds Office.

Civil Case Index (Defendant) (1874-1974)

The index to civil case proceedings provides the names of defendants and plaintiffs, along with the court term and case number. These records include divorces, judgments, and notes of testimony. The index is organized by the first letter of the defendant’s last name, followed by chronological order according to the court term and case number. To quickly navigate to the appropriate court term, use the bookmark feature within the index. When requesting references, be sure to include the court term (month and year) and the case number.

Coroner Inquest Index (1906-2004)

Lancaster County appointed its first coroner in 1729 when the county was established. By 1838, the coroner became an elected official responsible for investigating deaths of a suspicious or violent nature. If the coroner could not determine the cause of death after an autopsy, an inquest was held to identify responsibility. Historically, six “good and lawful men” were summoned as witnesses to help determine the manner of death during the inquest. Coroner Inquest records include the inquest number, name of the deceased, date and location of death, nature of death, coroner’s name, and the witnesses examined. Witnesses often included family members, offering valuable connections for genealogical research. For related death certificates, contact the Pennsylvania Division of Vital Records.

Death Affidavit Index (1874-1978)

In 1874, Pennsylvania enacted legislation requiring an affidavit of death before a will or intestate record could be filed in the courts. Executors or administrators were required to submit a petition or affidavit specifying the exact date and time of the individual’s death to the Register of Wills before probate of a will or the issuance of letters of administration. Death Affidavits include the deceased’s name, residence, date and time of death, and the name/signature of the administrator or executor. This record series offers a century’s worth of death dates for Lancaster County residents, serving as a valuable resource for finding additional information in newspaper obituaries. Some death affidavits were filed years after the death occurred. Beginning in 1934, Estate File numbers were indexed in the left margin, and researchers should request these for further details. The index is organized alphabetically by the first letter of the surname, then by the first letter of the given name, and chronologically by the date filed. To expedite your search, the second letter of the decedent’s surname is noted in the left column. Use the bookmark feature within the index to quickly navigate to the appropriate given name section.

Death Registrations (1852-1855)

Starting in 1852, all Registers of Wills in Pennsylvania counties were required to maintain separate death registrations. However, this legislation was short-lived and was repealed in 1855, resulting in only a narrow window of years for these vital records. An index is located in the front section of the death register, with names arranged chronologically by the date recorded. It’s important to note that not every death was registered as required by this law.

Death Registrations (1893-1907)

Starting in June 1893, all Pennsylvania Clerks of the Orphans’ Court were required to maintain separate death records. Township and borough assessors collected this information, documenting key details such as place of birth, place of death, cemetery, and cause of death. This practice was gradually discontinued at the county level when Pennsylvania began officially maintaining death records in 1906. The death register is organized alphabetically by the first letter of the surname and chronologically by the date recorded. Some deaths were recorded several months after they occurred, and not every death was registered. To quickly access the appropriate surname section, use the bookmark feature within the index.

Deed in Trust Index (1825-1938)

Deeds in Trust, also known as “Deeds of Assignment,” document the voluntary sale of property to settle debts. When individuals or businesses faced financial difficulties, often described as “sundry losses and misfortunes,” they would assign all their property to benefit creditors. These records are indexed separately by the ‘assignor’ (the person whose property was sold or assigned) and list the ‘assignee’ (the person or creditors receiving the property). Records after this period were incorporated into regular deed books. Deeds in Trust are organized alphabetically by the first letter of the assignor’s surname. To quickly find the relevant surname section, use the bookmark feature within the index.

Dental Diplomas (1883-1927)

Beginning in 1883, recorded copies of diplomas issued to dental graduates were filed in the Lancaster County Recorder of Deeds office in compliance with Pennsylvania law. These records provide official documentation of dental qualifications and were preserved as part of the county’s archival records.

Dentist Register (1898-1972)

In accordance with state legislation and court rules, the Prothonotary Office has historically maintained detailed registrations for various professions. The register of dentists includes information such as the dentist’s name, address, and place of birth. Additionally, these records provide details about the institution attended, the degree earned, and the date it was awarded.

Divorce Index (1850-1997)

Index to divorce proceedings filed in the Prothonotary Office. Index provides the names of both parties, court term/case number and date of decree. Divorces prior to 1873 may be found at Lancaster’s Historical Society.

Ejectment Docket Index (1858-2005)

An ejectment is a civil action aimed at recovering real estate or compelling a conveyance of property. In 1913, the Prothonotary was mandated to maintain a separate Ejectment Docket. These records detail the court term, civil case number, property value, location and description, and the involved parties.

Equity Docket Index (1848-1983)

Records filed in civil court equity proceedings. Equity papers may contain original signatures of parties involved.

Fictitious Names in Business Index (1917-1983)

Under Pennsylvania legislation enacted in 1917, it became unlawful for businesses and corporations to operate without filing a certificate with the courts. These registrations include the business name, location, and type of operation. From defunct cigar and candy makers to soap companies, this collection offers a unique snapshot of early twentieth-century small businesses across Lancaster County.

Habeus Corpus Docket Index (1895-1983)

Habeas corpus proceedings, filed in the civil courts, are commonly used for the transport of prisoners or disputes over the custody of minors. The term “habeas corpus” is Latin for a writ or court order requiring government officials to bring an individual before the courts to justify their detention or custody. These proceedings ensure that the legality of the detention or custody is reviewed by the court.

Intestate Index (1729-1928)

Intestate records, also known as “Letters of Administration,” were filed when a person died without a will. These records provide a timeframe of death, the names of the administrator, and their signatures. Administrators were required to complete a “true and perfect inventory of all and singular the goods, chattels, and credits of the said deceased” within one month, followed by an account within one year, both filed in the Register’s office. The index is organized alphabetically by the first letter of the surname, followed by the first letter of the given name, and then arranged chronologically by the filing date. To expedite your search, the second letter of the decedent’s surname is noted in the left column. Use the bookmark feature within the index to quickly navigate to the correct surname and first name section.

Inventory Index 1729-1976

When individuals died without a will, Pennsylvania law required that an inventory of their personal property be taken and filed at the Courthouse within 30 days. These inventories often detail a room-by-room listing of household furnishings, farm implements, and other personal belongings. The index is organized alphabetically by the first letter of the surname, then by the first letter of the given name, and chronologically by the filing date. To speed up your search, the second letter of the decedent’s surname is noted in the left column. Inventory records from 1962 onward are included in estate files, while those prior to 1861 are preserved at Lancaster’s Historical Society.

Letters of Attorney Index (1811-1965)

Powers of attorney, also known as “letters of attorney,” authorize individuals to make decisions on behalf of others. These records include the name of the grantor and the person to whom authority was granted. After a certain period, letters of attorney were recorded in regular deed books. The index is organized alphabetically by the first letter of the grantor’s surname, with the second letter indicated in the left margin to aid in navigation. To quickly locate the appropriate surname section, use the bookmark feature within the index.

Limited Partnership Index (1839-1961)

Recorded copies of limited partnership agreements document business operations and industries within Lancaster County from the mid-nineteenth through the twentieth century. For related records, researchers should consult Charter Books and Trust Books. Partnership agreements before 1839 may have been recorded in Deed Books.

Marriage License Index 1885-1936

Starting in 1885, Pennsylvania counties were required to maintain marriage records. Marriage license applications were recorded in large docket books at the courthouse, with separate index books originally maintained for the bride and groom. The index is organized by the first letter of the bride’s or groom’s name and then chronologically by the date filed. To streamline your search, use the bookmarks to quickly locate the appropriate section. When requesting references, be sure to include the book, volume, and license number.

A Bride Index
B Bride Index
C Bride Index
D Bride Index
E Bride Index
F Bride Index
G Bride Index
H Bride Index
I-J Bride Index
K Bride Index
L Bride Index
M Bride Index
N-P Bride Index
Q-R Bride Index
S Bride Index
T-V Bride Index
W Bride Index
Y-Z Bride Index

A Groom Index
B Groom Index
C Groom Index
D Groom Index
E Groom Index
F Groom Index
G Groom Index
H Groom Index
I-J Groom Index
K Groom Index
L Groom Index
M Groom Index
N-P Groom Index
Q-R Groom Index
S Groom Index
T-V Groom Index
W Groom Index
X-Z Groom Index

Marriage License Index (1937-1972)

Starting in 1885, Pennsylvania counties were mandated to maintain marriage records. Marriage license applications were recorded in large docket books at the courthouse, with separate index books initially kept for the bride and groom. To help locate specific entries, use the bookmarks to navigate to the appropriate section before starting your search. When requesting references, be sure to provide the book, volume, and license number.

Marriage Registrations (1852-1855)

Starting in 1852, all Registers of Wills in Pennsylvania counties were required to maintain separate marriage registrations. However, this legislation was short-lived and repealed in 1855, resulting in only a narrow range of years for these vital records. An index is located in the front section of the marriage register, with names arranged chronologically by the date recorded. It’s important to note that not every marriage was registered in compliance with this law. Researchers are advised to also consult church records for additional marriage record sources.

Mechanic Lien Docket Index (1840-1983)

Mechanic Liens, filed by contractors once referred to as “mechanics,” document work performed on a property. These liens can offer valuable insights into a historic home’s construction date, materials used, and the builder involved. The records are indexed by the property owner’s name and include the contractor’s name, amount owed, and a description of the property. Original mechanic lien papers dating back to 1869 may provide further details and context.

Medical Register Index (1881-1962)

On May 18, 1893, an Act was approved requiring the registration of medical and surgical practitioners in Pennsylvania. All individuals practicing medicine in the state were mandated to register their licensing credentials with the Prothonotary Office. These records include the practitioner’s place of residence, the institution attended, the degree earned, and the date obtained. The records also feature the signature of the medical professional, offering a detailed snapshot of their qualifications and background.

Military Discharges Index 1864-1947

Following the Civil War, legislation passed in 1868 required that soldier discharge papers be recorded in Recorder’s offices across Pennsylvania counties. Veterans would visit the Courthouse to record their military discharge papers for safekeeping. Before recording, the soldier appeared before an alderman or justice of the peace to take an oath verifying their identity as the individual who completed the military service. After recording at the Courthouse, the original discharge papers were returned to the soldier. The recorded military discharge copies provide details such as the name of the military regiment, enrollment date, place of birth, age, occupation, and date/conditions of discharge. These records also include a physical description of the soldier. Military discharge records become public 75 years after their recording date.

Mortgage Index (1807-1981)

Mortgages were used by buyers to finance the purchase of property. These records provide the name and property address of the mortgagor. Mortgages from earlier periods were indexed and recorded within regular deed books. For additional property information, researchers should consult deed records available through the Recorder’s website. Mortgage records are organized alphabetically by the first letter of the mortgagor’s surname. To quickly find the appropriate surname section, use the bookmark feature within the index. When requesting references, be sure to include the recorded book and page number.

Naturalization Petition Index (1800-1991)

Naturalization is the formal process through which foreign-born residents are granted U.S. citizenship. The first United States naturalization act, passed in 1790, allowed individuals to be naturalized in any federal, state, or local court. Immigrants often applied for naturalization at the courthouse closest to their residence, so determining their initial place of residence is crucial for research. Naturalization records typically consist of two documents: the Declaration of Intention and the Petition. These documents might have been filed in different locations.

After residing in the U.S. for a period of time (usually three years), immigrants would file their first papers, known as the Declaration of Intention, which renounced their allegiance to their former country. After an additional waiting period (usually two years), they could petition for their final naturalization papers. Both the declaration and petition are usually preserved together with the final petition.

Naturalization Certificate Receipts Index (1930-1991)

Receipts for certificates of citizenship provide documentation of the naturalization process. These records include the petitioner’s name, residence, age, date the certificate was issued, and petition number. The receipts are signed by the petitioner and may also note any name changes made during the process. These records serve as valuable links to the final citizenship documentation.

Naturalization Testimony Index (1907-1940)

Court stenographic notes taken during naturalization proceedings offer a unique glimpse into the questions and processes involved in early twentieth-century naturalizations. These records provide details such as the court term, petitioner’s name, nature of testimony, and nativity. They may also include preliminary forms for naturalization, certificate of arrival requests, petitions for name changes, preliminary forms for petitions or declarations, and details for the declaration of intention. For arrivals after June 1, 1921, a certificate of arrival was required before a declaration could be issued by the civil court. These notes and accompanying documents offer valuable insights into the naturalization process during this period.

Oaths of Allegiance Index (1777-1789)

Less than a year after the American Revolution, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania passed legislation to secure allegiance to the newly formed government. On June 13, 1777, all male inhabitants over the age of 18 were required to swear an oath before a Justice of the Peace in their area, renouncing any allegiance to Great Britain. This requirement extended to undocumented visitors traveling through Lancaster County during that time. Justices of the Peace were instructed to maintain registers of all individuals who took the oath and submit these lists annually to the Recorder of Deeds. For every person who swore the oath, Justices received one shilling, while the Recorder’s office earned five shillings for every hundred names recorded.

In Lancaster County, the Oaths of Allegiance were documented in Deed Book ‘L,’ pages 375-406, but the names were not included in the regular deed indexes. The subscriber names, recorded in typewritten format, have been indexed exactly as they appear in Deed Book ‘L,’ so researchers should consider alternative spellings of surnames when searching. These records are accessible through the Recorder of Deeds website by selecting “Search Public Records” and then “Online IQS.” The original Oaths of Allegiance records may be preserved at the Pennsylvania State Archives.

Orphans’ Court Index (1742-1800)

Orphans’ Court records encompass a broad range of ‘miscellaneous’ court proceedings, including the appointment of guardians and the sale of property after an individual’s death. This index provides the book volume (covering a range of years), page number, and the nature of the court proceedings, which can be found in the Miscellaneous Dockets. Names within the index are organized chronologically by the year the case was filed in the courts. To efficiently locate the correct surname section, use the bookmark feature within the index. When requesting references, be sure to include the book’s range of years and the page number.

Orphans’ Court Index 1801-1928

Orphans’ Court records cover a wide range of ‘miscellaneous’ court proceedings, such as the appointment of guardians and the sale of property after an individual’s death. This index provides details like the book volume (covering a range of years), page number, and the nature of the court proceedings, which are found in the Miscellaneous Dockets. The names in this index are organized alphabetically by the first letter of the surname, followed by the first letter of the given name, and then arranged chronologically by the date filed. To make your search easier, the second letter of the decedent’s surname is noted in the left column. Use the bookmark feature within the index to quickly navigate to the appropriate given name section.

Partition Docket Index (1850-1957)

When multiple individuals held an interest in a property, a specific equity proceeding known as a ‘partition’ action could be brought before the civil courts to ensure a fair division of the property when possible. Partition proceedings were used to direct the division of property among co-owners, most commonly joint heirs, before a formal deed was created. These records include details such as the civil court term, case number, and the location and description of the property.

Prison Register Index (1908-1969)

The daily record of prisoners committed to and discharged from the Lancaster County Prison provides a detailed account of inmate activity. These records include the prisoner’s name, cell number, date committed, length of stay, date of discharge, and manner of discharge. This documentation offers insights into the prison’s operations and individual incarceration timelines.

Prison Trial Docket Index (1908-1965)

The record of prisoners awaiting trial provides key details about individuals held in custody before their court proceedings. These records include the date committed, prisoner’s name, charge, the authority or official who committed them, date discharged, and circumstances of discharge. This information helps track the legal process and outcomes for those awaiting trial.

Prison Trial Register Index (1916-1960)

The daily record of prisoners committed to and discharged from the Lancaster County Prison includes comprehensive details about each inmate’s time in custody. These records capture the prisoner’s name, date committed, cell number, charge, the authority or official responsible for the commitment, length of sentence, the presiding alderman, the constable involved, and the manner of discharge. This detailed documentation provides a thorough overview of each prisoner’s legal process and incarceration experience.

Prison Vagrancy Docket Index (1894-1963)

The record of individuals detained at the Lancaster County Prison for minor offenses, such as vagrancy, trespassing, and disorderly conduct, provides details including the prisoner’s name, date of offense, cell number, days served, and date discharged. Please note that no records are available for the years 1933-1939. These records offer insights into the handling of minor offenses and short-term detentions during this period.

Quarter Session Docket Index (1729-1872)

The record of all general criminal proceedings within the Quarter Session Courts includes information on cases overseen by the Clerk of Quarter Sessions. Named for the court sessions held quarterly, these records detail the defendant’s name, court term, case number, crime, and fines/costs. For records prior to 1797, relevant information may also be found in Road Dockets. Please note that Quarter Session records are missing for the years 1792-1796 and 1814-1826, and additional record gaps may exist despite being indexed. These records provide a comprehensive view of criminal proceedings during the specified timeframes.

Quarter Session Docket Index (1902-1981)

The record of all criminal proceedings in the Quarter Sessions Court provides key information, including the court term, case number, names of the involved parties, charge, and final disposition. The Quarter Sessions office was so named because the court sessions were held quarterly. These records offer a detailed overview of criminal cases processed during these sessions, giving insight into the charges brought and the outcomes of each case.

Recognizance Docket Index (1855-1959)

Following an individual’s death, bonds were posted by the decedent’s family for the purchase of property. Property appraisements were conducted by “seven men,” the sheriff’s inquest, Orphans’ Court, or County Commissioners. Recognizance Dockets served as an acknowledgment by family members to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania regarding the property’s value. The recognizance was voided once the full valuation of the real estate was paid to the widow or legal representatives of the deceased. These records include the name of the decedent, property valuation, and details about family relationships by naming surviving family members. Family members’ signatures may also be present. Recognizance records filed from 1903 onward may also be found in Estate Files. Researchers should consult the Orphans’ Court Index for related records.

Renunciations Index (1828-1912)

When an individual died without a will in nineteenth-century Pennsylvania, intestate laws typically directed the surviving spouse to act as the administrator of the estate. If the spouse chose not to serve as administrator, they had to formally renounce their right and appoint another person in their place. If the spouse was no longer living, the eldest son or daughter usually assumed the role of administrator. Renunciation records include the name of the decedent, the name and relationship of the person appointed as administrator, and the name and relationship of the person appointed in their place. These records may also contain signatures of witnesses. Names are indexed under the deceased individual’s name. Related death records might be found separately in the Orphans’ Court, Inventory, and Account Indexes. Renunciations from 1903 onward may be included within Estate Files.

Road Docket Index (1729-2001)

Beginning with the formation of Lancaster County in 1729, farmers required roads to transport their goods to market and to access the Courthouse from rural areas. As the city grew, residents also needed new streets to accommodate the expanding limits. New roadways were initially petitioned, reviewed, approved, and laid out through the Quarter Session courts and recorded in Road Dockets. These dockets include the names of road petitioners, adjoining landowners, and a description of the proposed roadway. Hand-drawn maps of the proposed roads were often recorded as well.

The Road Docket Index provides the Road Docket Book number, page of recording, and width of the proposed road. Road Dockets are organized alphabetically by the township or borough where the road was originally proposed, and then chronologically by the date recorded. To quickly find the appropriate township or borough, use the bookmark feature within the index. When requesting references, be sure to provide the Road Docket volume and page number.

Road Minutes Index (1860-1955)

Petitions in the Quarter Sessions Court related to new roadways, the appointment of road viewers, and road viewers’ reports were integral to developing infrastructure in Lancaster County. The Quarter Sessions Court, named for its sessions held quarterly in January, April, August, and November, handled these matters. Records include details such as the date, court term, road location, appointed road viewers, the nature of their report, and the page/volume of the corresponding Road Docket recording. Additionally, Road Minutes document information on road damages, bridge petitions, bridge inspections, borough incorporations, township annexations or divisions, and the establishment of new election districts. These records provide a comprehensive view of the development and governance of roads and related infrastructure in the region.

Sheriff Deed Index (1825-1905)

A sheriff’s sale represents the final step after a court orders the seizure of a person’s property due to unpaid civil judgments. The grantor refers to the individual whose property is seized and sold at the sheriff’s sale, while the grantee is the buyer of the advertised property. For house history research, sheriff’s deeds can be a crucial link in tracing property ownership. Researchers should consult regular deed records via the Recorder’s website for further property details. Sheriff Deed indexes are organized alphabetically by the first letter of the grantor’s and grantee’s surname. To streamline navigation, use the bookmark feature within the index to jump directly to the relevant surname section. When requesting references, please provide the recorded book volume and page number. Sheriff deeds were recorded within standard deed books after this period.

Trust Book Index (1841-2003)

Trust Books document various civil court proceedings, such as appointments, estate assignments, cases involving habitual drunkards, insolvent debtors, lunacy cases, name changes, oaths of office, stallion registrations, and individuals classified as “weak-minded.” Additionally, adoptions were often recorded in Trust Books up until 1925.

Unrecorded Deed Index (1735-1985)

Establishing a complete “chain of title” in historical property research may rely on locating deeds that were either never recorded at the courthouse or recorded long after their original creation. In the 18th and 19th centuries, deeds were typically written on large pieces of parchment known as indentures. These deeds were then taken to the courthouse, where clerks transcribed them into large docket books, usually within a few weeks. Once recording fees were paid, the original deed was returned to the grantee, or buyer. However, due to the challenges of traveling to the courthouse, some deeds were never recorded or were recorded many decades, even over a century, later. Researchers should search regular deed records and indexes through the Lancaster County Recorder of Deeds. Some previously unrecorded deeds were eventually recorded and are included in this collection. Unrecorded deeds with a date listed in the recorded column can be accessed through the Recorder of Deeds.

Veteran Burial Card Index (1777-1989)

The card record of veterans, initiated during the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), led to an extensive inventory of veteran grave markers dating back to the American Revolution. These records include the veteran’s name, birth and death dates, the war served in, rank, period of service, and the name and location of the cemetery where they are buried.

Veteran Burial Expense Index (1968-1988)

These records consist of completed applications for burial reimbursement of county veterans, as authorized by the County Code of 1955. The forms provide detailed information including the veteran’s name, birthplace and birth date, branch of service, enlistment dates and locations, discharge details, residence prior to enlistment, rank, serial number, military unit, date and place of death and burial, the recipient of the payment, the amount requested, and the signatures of representatives and undertakers. Typically, there are two applications for each veteran—one for a headstone and one for burial expenses. The records cover veterans who served from World War I through the Vietnam War.

Veteran Burial Index (Destitute) (1885-1901)

These records document Civil War veterans in Lancaster County who passed away “destitute.” Under Pennsylvania legislation enacted on May 12, 1885, county governments were responsible for covering the burial expenses of veterans who lacked sufficient means. The act required County Commissioners to appoint committees to ensure that honorably discharged soldiers were properly buried and provided with a headstone. The County Commissioners allocated $35 for burial expenses and $15 for a headstone. These records include the veteran’s name, residence, military unit, rank, date of discharge, occupation, date of death, place of burial, burial costs, and the signatures of witnesses.

Veteran Death Reports (1954-1966)

These records consist of completed forms from the Veteran Affairs office used to compile veteran grave registration records, primarily for World War I veterans. The forms include detailed information such as the veteran’s name, date and place of birth, date and place of death, cemetery location, and military service dates.

Veteran Grave Marker Requests

These records document grave marker requests submitted to the County Commissioners for veterans buried in Lancaster County cemeteries. The records include the veteran’s name, the war in which they served, the name and location of the cemetery, the name of the person requesting the marker, the date of the request, and any additional remarks made by the requester.

Widow Appraisement Index 1872-1920

Widow Appraisements were among several court records filed when a Lancaster County resident passed away without a will. These documents, often submitted to the Orphans’ Court, were used to allocate any remaining property. In the nineteenth century, widows could choose to retain $300 worth of real estate from their late husband’s estate. Two “disinterested and competent” individuals were appointed to appraise and designate $300 worth of property for the widow. If the property was valued above $300 and could not be divided without “spoiling the whole,” the widow received a $300 payment instead. Early twentieth-century legislation increased the amounts for widow appraisements, and husbands were granted similar compensation after their wife’s death during this period. These records are particularly valuable for their descriptions of property and indication of the date of death. Estate File references indexed alongside these records should be requested for further information. A separate widow appraisement docket was maintained during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Widow Appraisement records beyond this period are recorded in the Orphans’ Court Index.

Will Index 1730-1977

After an individual’s death, an executor would typically petition the court to accept the will. A hearing date was then set to validate the will. Witnesses to the will would appear in court, and if the will was uncontested, it was admitted or probated into the court. Once probated, the clerk transcribed and indexed a copy into the official will books, with both the transcribed copy and the original will being preserved at the Courthouse. The names in this index are organized alphabetically by the first letter of the surname, followed by the first letter of the given name, and then arranged chronologically based on the date the will was probated or submitted to the Courthouse. It’s important to note that a will might be indexed several years after the individual’s death. Researchers should also explore other death-related records, such as Intestate and Orphans’ Court records. The index’s bookmark feature can help you quickly navigate to the correct section based on the surname and given name.

Topics:
Birth Records, Bonds, Coroner Records, Court Records, Death Records, Divorce, Marriage Records, Morgages, Naturalization Records, Oaths of Allegiance, Orphans Court, Prisons, Probate records, Sheriff Deeds, Veteran Burials, Websites, Wills,

Locations:
Lancaster County PA, Lancaster Pennsylvania,

Collection:

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