Local Research
Researching your family in Staunton
- Start by checking the Library’s holdings in our ONLINE CATALOG. Perform a SUBJECT KEYWORD search using the family name you are searching as the subject. Books in the Genealogy Room are designated by the prefix GEN before the call number.
- Check the Genealogy Surname Index (GEN 929.42 H). This is an index to names found in the family histories in the Genealogy Room. It is usually on the big table. While the index stops in 1992, it is still a valuable resource.
- Look for your family’s name in the filing cabinet near the door of the Genealogy Room. These files include material sent to us by researchers like you.
- You may want to check Burials in Augusta County, Va. Cemeteries, (3 vols.) (GEN 929.37551 B) and the Marriage Records of Augusta County, 1785-1850 (GEN 929.37551 D).
- Browse the indexes of the histories of Augusta County by Waddell and Peyton (GEN 975.591)
- Check the printed indexes to the Virginia Census. If you find the name you are seeking, we have microfilm of Augusta County Census records from 1810-1930.
- Try searching for your family name in the Heritage Quest Online database. This is a database that includes thousands of family and local histories. Please ask for assistance if you aren’t familiar with computers.
- If your search at the Library is unsuccessful, try the Augusta County Clerk’s Office located in the Augusta County Courthouse (corner of Johnson and Augusta Streets, downtown Staunton). The Courthouse has many primary source materials such as deeds, judgments, wills and tax records dating back to 1745. The Courthouse is open 8:30-5:00, Mon.-Fri. Closed legal holidays.
