Featured Resource: Obituary Search
Explore obituary entries dating back to 1815. Our new search tool makes it easy to look up names, view publication details, and request copies of microfilmed obituaries directly from library staff.
About the JCPL Local History Department
The Local History Department helps patrons explore genealogy, historic records, and the stories of Jefferson County. Staff can answer brief research questions and provide basic lookups in materials such as marriage, death, census, and family files.
From the Archives
The Broadway Fountain was built by the Janes, Kirtland Iron Company of the Bronx, New York. Marie Blanke of Chicago, Illinois paints a picture of the fountain in this photo by Harry Lemen taken in 1938.
Jefferson County Public Library is a FamilySearch Affiliate Library
FamilySearch.org is a free genealogy website with billions of historical records. While most of its collection is accessible from home, some records can only be viewed at designated affiliate libraries or LDS Family History Centers.
As an affiliate library, JCPL patrons can access these library-only records — including millions of digitized images — for free on our computers during regular library hours. No appointment needed.
Note: A free FamilySearch.org account is required to access the library-only records. If you don't have one, staff can help you get set up.