Vital Records and Statistics' Death certificates, 1904-1956

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Utah State Archives Series 81448

DESCRIPTION: The Utah Office of Vital Records and Statistics began issuing death certificates in 1904. A death certificate is the permanent legal record of an individual's death. Each death certificate includes the decedent's full name, date of death, county where death occurred, decedent's race and gender, place and date of birth, marital status, occupation, permanent residence, place and date of burial, time of death, chief cause and contributory factors of death, and if applicable, where illness was contracted and duration of illness. Death certificates also include the names and birthplaces of parents. After 1919 death certificates indicated whether an autopsy had been performed and provided immediate surgical history prior to death. After 1935 state law required the inclusion of information about violent deaths, including accidents, homicides, and suicides. Certificates indicate whether death occurred at home, in a public place, or in the workplace. In 1940 the certificates began including Social Security numbers and information about the decedent's veteran status. Prior to 1910 permits relating to the transport of corpses were included with death certificates.

Finding Aids: A series inventory is available.