Skip to main content
The Promise of a Community's Future is Dependent on the Remembrance of It's Past



SCGS  PROJECTS


Contact SCGS to
Volunteer to
Help with -

INDEXING -
   Adoptions
   Delayed Births
   Marriage Cert
   Death Cert
   Divorces

   Cemeteries
   Churches
   Funeral Homes
   Newspapers

CEMETERY Project -
  ID/Clean Vet Stones

PHOTO Project -
  ID/Organize
  Digitize/Protect
HomePUB - Research Request Form



STEPHENSON COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY

Research Policy / Fees




How can I find information on my family's Stephenson County roots?

A genealogist, whether professional or the family researcher is an explorer.  We trace the paths of our ancestors; learn about the world they lived in and the circumstances they experienced.  Some discoveries are anticipated, others are unexpected and often surprising.

One thing every genealogist learns in their journey is that it is impossible to go it alone.  Often our ancestors lived extraordinary distances from our dining room tables where our searches begin.

That's where the Stephenson County Genealogical Society (SCGS) can help you.  If you are unable to visit us in the History Room, you can request documents using the Research Request form.

RESEARCH  POLICY

This SCGS service is intended to support genealogists by providing access to the various documents and information housed in the History Room of the Freeport Public Library.  Please understand that our Volunteers cannot do your genealogy for you nor complete multiple person, extensive requests.  Our Volunteer time is limited and we need to be able to respond to all of the requests we receive in a timely manner.

Requested copies of requested documents can be picked up in the History Room - emailed back to the requester - or mailed back to the requester when we have received a self-addressed, stamped envelope.  If you plan to pick up your documents, please contact SCGS at our email and make arrangements in advance of your trip.


RESEARCH  FEES

Research  = $0                    There is no charge for research conducted by
                                             SCGS Volunteers

Vital Cert (Members)          = $4.00 per Certificate 
                (Non-Members)  = $7.00 per Certificate
                                           Copy of a vital record certificate will be sent after
                                            payment is received

Misc Copy = 10 cents per page  Copy of various document/obituary/news
                     (single side)            article etc. will be sent after payment has
                                                    been received

Standard Postage               If no self-addressed, stamped envelope received

An invoice will be sent to the requester that includes total cost when the request is completed.  Payment can be made in person, through PayPal or with a check by mail.  There is no additional fee for electronic payment.

RESEARCH  PROCESS

     1.  ONE request form per Ancestor being researched
     2.  Requests will be responded to within seven days of receipt
     3.  Upon completion, an email will be sent to the requester with the information
             found in the search and a list of document copies found or notice will be sent of a
             negative search.
     4.  If document/certificate copies are found, an Invoice will also be sent to
             the requester.

Submit Research Request Form