Stuart Vital Records Research

Martin County genealogy research helps you discover ancestors on Florida's Treasure Coast where the county formed in 1925 from parts of Palm Beach County with Stuart serving as the county seat. Records here are more recent than many Florida counties, and you can find birth, death, and marriage records from the early 1900s that help trace families who settled in the area for fishing and maritime trade opportunities.

Martin County Clerk of Court Records

The Clerk of Court maintains official records for Martin County genealogy research under Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes ensuring public access to government documents including marriage licenses, court cases, and probate files dating back to 1925 when the county was established. You can visit the office in Stuart to search records in person or access online databases, and staff members help find historical documents and make certified copies. The office follows state laws for record retention and access.

Marriage records from 1925 through June 6, 1927 are kept at the clerk's office, while the state holds records from June 6, 1927 forward as established by Chapter 382 of the Florida Statutes governing vital statistics statewide. For marriage licenses issued in Stuart, you must check with the Martin County Clerk directly. Probate records show how estates were divided among heirs and family members, and these files list relationships and assets in detail. They contain valuable information about family connections from the 1920s forward.

Visit the Martin County Clerk at 100 SE Ocean Boulevard, Stuart, FL 34994.

Florida State Archives Collections

The State Archives of Florida contains materials for Martin County genealogy research.

World War I Service Cards document military personnel from the region. Spanish Land Grants show original property owners from 1821 in the area that became Martin County. Voter Registration Rolls from 1867-68 include early residents of the region before the county formed. These records help trace families through multiple generations.

Access these collections at the State Archives of Florida in Tallahassee. The archives open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call (850) 245-6700 before visiting.

Bureau of Vital Statistics Records

The Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics holds Martin County birth and death records under Chapter 382 of the Florida Statutes governing vital records. Birth records begin around 1917, though earlier records are incomplete. Death records extend further back in time. You can request certified copies online or by mail.

Confidential birth records are protected under Florida law, with records less than 125 years old having access limits to protect privacy. Only specific people can obtain copies, including the person named, parents, and legal guardians. Valid photo identification is required. State marriage records cover June 6, 1927 to present, while earlier marriages from 1925-1927 are found only at the county clerk office in Stuart. Death records without cause of death are public under Chapter 119. The cause remains private for 50 years.

Martin County Genealogy Research Tips

Success in Martin County genealogy starts with family stories.

Census records track Martin County families over time. Federal census began for this area in 1930 when the county formed. Look at neighboring counties too, as borders changed over the years. Families moved between Palm Beach and Martin counties. Check all possible locations for your ancestors.

Church records supplement official documents.

Newspapers add details to your Martin County genealogy research. Local papers carried obituaries and wedding announcements. They reported on community events and social gatherings. The State Library has microfilm collections available to search.

Visit the State Library Genealogy Page for database access.

Nearby Counties for Genealogy Research

These counties neighbor Martin County.