West Virginia, Southern Claims Commission Approved Claims - FamilySearch Historical Records

What Is in This Collection?
The images of approved claims from civilians seeking compensation for lost or destroyed property as a result of the Civil War. The collection is NARA publication M1762 Southern Claims Commission Approved Claims, 1871-1880:West Virginia and is from RG 217, Records of the Accounting Officers of the Department of the Treasury. The collection includes records from 1871 to 1880.

What Can This Collection Tell Me?
The information varies by record. You may find any of the following: • 2

How Do I Search the Collection?
Before searching this collection, it is helpful to know:
 * The name of the primary individual.
 * The county of where your ancestor lived.

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.

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

 * Add any new information to your records
 * If available, check the image for additional information
 * Analyze the entry to see if it provides additional clues to find other records of the person or their family

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

 * Try searching by surname only
 * The person may be recorded with an abbreviated or variant form of their name
 * Remember that spelling was generally not standardized until the early part of the 20th century

Research Helps
The following articles will help you in your research for your family in West Virginia.
 * West Virginia Research Tips and Strategies
 * West Virginia Record Finder
 * Step-by-Step West Virginia Research, 1880-Present

Citations For 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.