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This index includes death records for about 886,000 individuals across 67 counties in Indiana. These records span from 1882 to 1920 and are a vital source for anyone researching Indiana ancestors during this key transitional period in American history.
The records were originally compiled by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) during the 1930s as part of a nationwide effort to preserve local records. Many of these original documents were stored in county offices and courthouses. Thanks to the WPA’s work, much of this information was saved and made searchable in this index.
If you are researching ancestors who lived in Indiana during the late 1800s or early 1900s, this collection is a strong place to start. A death record may include the full name, date of death, place of death, and the county where the record was filed. Some entries may also include the names of parents or a spouse, depending on the original form used by the county.
This database supports searches across 67 of Indiana’s 92 counties. That means you can explore deaths recorded in both rural and urban communities. Because statewide registration wasn’t fully adopted until later, county-level indexes like this are essential for filling in gaps in your family history.
Use this collection to:
- Find ancestors who died between 1882 and 1920 in Indiana
- Explore county-level records that may not appear in state archives
- Identify family groups based on shared surnames and locations
- Confirm death dates and locations for birth-to-death timelines
- Support applications for lineage societies or genealogical proofs
Whether you’re working on a family tree or verifying facts for historical research, these WPA death records provide a strong foundation for understanding Indiana lives at the turn of the century.