To Live and Die in California: Researching Vital Records

Birth, marriage, death, and a final resting place. These are all important events in documenting our ancestor's life. California officially started recording BMD events in 1905 but what counties started the process earlier? What alternative sources exist for vital records when a government issued certificate is not available? Once you have documented the death of an ancestor, where do you find their final resting place? We will explore vital record recording in California and alternatives prior to official state recording. We will also explore other places to find information about your ancestor's BMD event. Finally we will look at what types of cemeteries exist in California and where to find burial information.