The State Archives has historic
birth, death, marriage and divorce records. Yet, birth and death records have access restrictions. Beyond the State Archives, the
Oregon Historical County Records Guide inventory of vital records describes birth, death, marriage and divorce records held by counties and at other repositories such as local museums and historical societies.
Access Restrictions
All birth records,
including indexes,
have a 100-year access restriction, and death certificates have a 50-year access
restriction
(Oregon Health Division, OAR 333-011-096).
Permission to access vital records in the Archives that are restricted must be obtained through the State Registrar.
The State
Archives won't release restricted information without written authorization from the State Registrar. An
asterisk (*) next to a records listing
indicates an access restriction.
To request access, contact the State Registrar at
Oregon Center for Health Statistics, Suite 205, State Office Building, 800 N.E. Oregon St., Portland, OR 97232;
971-673-1190.
Researching Vital Records at the State Archives
Vital records
at the State Archives are either in the original format or as microfilm or publications. Microfilm and publications are available for self service in the Reference Room.
You can view records for free at the State Archives. We also offer research services.
If you supply: (1) name, (2) date of birth, death, marriage or divorce and (3) city and
Oregon county, we will search the records and send you copies (see fees).
