Locating obituaries for loved ones or researching family history in Delaware often begins with searching news journals. While online resources are increasingly prevalent, many Delaware newspapers still publish obituaries in their print editions and offer online archives (often behind a paywall). This guide will help you navigate the process effectively.
Which Delaware Newspapers Publish Obituaries?
Several Delaware newspapers regularly publish obituaries, each with its own coverage area and online accessibility. The most prominent include:
- The News Journal: Serving the greater Wilmington area and considered the state's largest newspaper, The News Journal's online archive is a valuable resource, though access may require a subscription.
- Delaware State News: Covering central and southern Delaware, the Delaware State News also has an online presence, potentially with a subscription requirement for full obituary access.
- Cape Gazette: Focusing on Sussex County, the Cape Gazette's obituaries provide a localized resource for the southernmost part of the state.
- Smaller Local Papers: Numerous smaller community newspapers across Delaware also publish local obituaries. These can be excellent resources for finding information about individuals in specific towns or regions. Searching online for "[town name] Delaware newspaper" will often yield relevant results.
How to Search for Obituaries in Delaware News Journals Online
Accessing obituaries online requires a strategic approach:
- Utilize the Newspaper's Website: Begin by visiting the newspaper's website directly. Most have a dedicated "obituaries" or "death notices" section. These sections often allow searches by name, date, or location.
- Use Advanced Search Options: Many online archives allow advanced search capabilities, enabling you to refine your search using specific dates, locations, or keywords.
- Check for Paywalls: Be aware that many news journals charge subscription fees for full access to their online archives. While some may offer free limited access, comprehensive searches often require a paid subscription.
- Utilize Search Engines: If your search on the newspaper's website is unsuccessful, try using a search engine like Google or Bing. Search terms like "[name] obituary Delaware News Journal" or "[name] obituary [town name] Delaware" can yield positive results. Remember to add variations of the name and potential misspellings.
- Explore Genealogy Websites: Websites like Ancestry.com or Findagrave.com may index obituaries from Delaware newspapers, providing another avenue for your research, though these often require paid memberships.
What Information Should I Have Ready?
To maximize your search effectiveness, gather the following information before you begin:
- Full Name: Include any variations of the name, including maiden names, nicknames, and middle initials.
- Dates: Knowing the approximate date of death (or date of birth) significantly narrows the search.
- Location: Specifying the town or county where the individual lived or died helps refine results.
What if I Can't Find the Obituary Online?
If your online search proves fruitless, consider these options:
- Contact the Newspaper Directly: Contact the relevant newspaper's customer service department. They may be able to assist you with your search or point you towards alternative resources.
- Visit Local Libraries: Libraries often keep archives of local newspapers, potentially offering access to older print editions.
- Check Funeral Homes: Funeral homes often maintain records of services they conduct and might have copies of obituaries.
How to Preserve Found Obituaries
Once you find relevant obituaries, it's crucial to preserve them for future reference. Consider these methods:
- Printing: Print a copy for your records.
- Saving as a PDF: Save a digital copy as a PDF, ensuring you can easily access it later.
- Note-Taking: Take thorough notes summarizing key information, especially for older, less accessible obituaries.
By following these steps and strategies, you’ll significantly increase your chances of successfully locating Delaware obituaries within news journal archives. Remember patience and persistence are key in genealogical research.
