Genealogy & Historical Records

Genealogy & Historical Records

Ferrisburgh, Vermont

Residents, historians, and family researchers can access a variety of genealogical databases and archival collections documenting individuals and families who lived in Ferrisburgh and the surrounding Addison County region during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

These resources include vital records, census schedules, probate files, land records, and historical manuscripts.


Online Genealogy Databases

FamilySearch

FamilySearch provides free access to one of the largest collections of genealogical records for Vermont.

Available Records

  • Birth, marriage, and death records
  • Federal census records (1850–1950)
  • Probate and estate files
  • Land records
  • Naturalization records
  • Church registers

Research Links

• Vermont Genealogy Research Guide (https://www.familysearch.org/en/wiki/Vermont_Genealogy)

• Addison County Record Catalog (https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/results?placeId=188635)

A free FamilySearch account may be required to view some records.


Vermont State Archives

Vermont State Archives and Records Administration

The Vermont State Archives preserves historical records created by state and local governments, including materials useful for genealogical research.

Collections Include

  • Vital records indexes
  • Town record microfilms
  • Military service records
  • Probate and court documents
  • Historical government records

Research Website

https://sos.vermont.gov/vsara/research/


Historical Societies and Local Collections

Vermont Historical Society

The Vermont Historical Society maintains extensive collections related to the history of Vermont communities and families.

Available Resources

  • Family papers and manuscripts
  • Historical photographs
  • Maps and town histories
  • Genealogical publications
  • Research guides and archival collections

Website

https://vermonthistory.org


Local Library Genealogy Resources

Bixby Memorial Free Library

Located nearby in Vergennes, the Bixby Library maintains a regional history and genealogy collection focused on Addison County.

Collections Include

  • Regional historical documents
  • Local family histories
  • Newspapers and photographs
  • Historical maps and directories

Website

https://bixbylibrary.org


Church Records

Church records can be an important source of genealogical information, particularly for the early 1800s before consistent statewide vital registration.

Examples include:

  • Ferrisburgh Society of Friends (Quaker) meeting records
  • Congregational church baptism and marriage registers
  • Burial and membership records

Many of these documents are preserved through the Vermont State Archives or have been digitized in genealogy databases.


Census and Population Records

Federal census records are valuable for tracing families in Ferrisburgh during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Commonly used census years include:

  • 1850 Federal Census (first to list all household members)
  • 1860 Census
  • 1870 Census
  • 1880 Census
  • 1900 Census

These records may include:

  • Names of family members
  • Ages and occupations
  • Birthplaces
  • Property ownership

Many of these records are accessible through FamilySearch and other genealogy services.


Historic Maps and Land Records

Historical maps and property records can help identify early landowners and settlement patterns in Ferrisburgh and surrounding towns.

Historic map collection

https://pastmaps.com/explore/us/vermont/addison-county/ferrisburgh/1800s-century

These maps may show:

  • Farm locations
  • Village centers
  • Roads and early infrastructure
  • Names of property owners

Additional Research Assistance

Researchers seeking historical information related to Ferrisburgh may also contact the Town Clerk’s Office or local historical organizations for guidance on town records, cemetery registries, and archival materials.