Pennsylvania Mortality Schedules- FamilySearch Historical Records

What is in This Collection?
This collection comprises a name index and images of mortality schedules from the state of Pennsylvania,1850-1880. Mortality Schedules were created in conjunction with the United States Federal Census and list persons who died in the year preceding the census.

What Can These Records Tell Me?
The following information may be found in these records:


 * Name
 * Age
 * Sex
 * Color
 * Marital status
 * Birthplace


 * Birth month
 * Birthplace of mother and father
 * Profession
 * Cause of death
 * Duration of illness
 * Township and county of death

How Do I Search This Collection?
Before searching this collection, it is helpful to know:
 * Name of the person
 * Approximate date of the event

How Do I Analyze the Results?
Compare each result from your search with what you know to determine if there is a match. This may require viewing multiple records or images. Keep track of your research in a research log.

What Do I Do Next?
Whenever possible, view the original records to verify the information and to find additional information that might not be reported. These pieces of information can lead you to additional records and family members.

I Found the Person I Was Looking For, What Now?

 * Use the information to locate the actual death certificate
 * Use the information to find other vital records such as birth and marriage
 * Use the information to find additional family members in census records
 * Search for land and probate records
 * Search for church records

I Can’t Find the Person I’m Looking For, What Now?

 * Collect entries for every person who has the same surname. This list can help you identify possible relations that can be verified by records
 * If you cannot locate your ancestor in the locality in which you believe they lived, then try searching records of a nearby locality
 * Standard spelling of names typically did not exist. Try variations of your ancestor’s name
 * Remember that sometimes individuals went by nicknames or alternated between using first and middle names, or even initials

Research Helps
The following articles will help you in your research for your family in the state of Pennsylvania.
 * Pennsylvania Guided Research
 * Research Tips and Strategies
 * Step-by-Step Research

Related Collections

 * Pennsylvania, census records : non-population schedules, 1850-1880

Citing This Collection
Citations help you keep track of places you have searched and sources you have found. Identifying your sources helps others find the records you used.