The Massachusetts National Archives have from 1841 through 1920. For 1920 and over you have to go to the county or city/town. I can help you find the resources if possible. Also, see below for information on the Massachusetts National Archives look up program....
The Massachusetts Archives holds vital records (births, marriages, and deaths) for the years 1841-1920. We recently received the 1916-1920 vital records and are working to provide access by certified copies and a limited amount of microfilm. We now offer online indices for our vital records, 1841-1910, so you can do some of the research from home. (Currently, 1911-1920 indexing can be searched by staff or by researchers who visit the Archives in person.) The index will provide you with the first and last name of the individual, the year of the event, and a volume and page number. The URL for these databases is:
http://www.sec.state.ma.us/arc/arcsrch/VitalRecordsSearchContents.htmlAfter reading over the information on that page, click on the word “SEARCH” located at the bottom of the page to access the search fields.
Whether you locate a record of interest in the online indices or not, you can request a search and a copy of the record from us if you are not able to visit us in person. Please follow these instructions when submitting such a request:
Photocopies of the birth, marriage, and death records from 1841 to 1915 can be ordered in person, by email, or by mail. 1916-1920 vital records are only partially accessible for photocopies at this time – a copy will be provided if possible. Please provide the full name and date (no greater than a 10-year span) for each event. If possible, the location, volume and page number, parents' names, and any additional information you might be able to provide will be extremely helpful. Please remember to include your mailing address in your letter so that we can mail the photocopies to you. Only five records can be requested at one time. Patrons must wait for receipt of copies from their initial order before submitting their next request. We will send a bill along with the photocopies, which are $0.50US per page. Orders take approximately 8 weeks to process.
However, if you require a certified copy of the record, please follow these instructions:
Certified copies of births, marriages and deaths from 1841 to 1920 can be ordered in person or by mail only. Please provide the full name and date (no greater than a 10-year span) for each event. If possible, the location, volume and page number, parents' names, and any additional information you might be able to provide will be extremely helpful. Please remember to include your mailing address in your letter so that we can send the completed certificate to you. A maximum of five certificates may be ordered at one time. Patrons must wait for receipt of copies from their initial order before submitting their next request. Please include individual checks for $3.00US for each certificate requested. A self addressed, stamped envelope is helpful, but not necessary. If we are unable to locate the record you have requested we will return your payment. Orders take approximately 8 weeks to process.
Checks should be made payable to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. We are not able to accept credit card payments, but do also accept money orders and cash. Our mailing address is:
Massachusetts Archives
220 Morrissey Blvd.
Boston, MA 02125
