Understanding MA Probate Records (1635-2025)
Massachusetts probate records serve as invaluable resources for both genealogical research and legal documentation. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about accessing probate record databases and indexes, their historical significance, and how to navigate the various county-specific collections.
"Probate records often reveal family relationships, economic status, and historical context that might not be found in other documents."
Whether you're researching family history or need legal documentation, these records provide unique windows into the past and can reveal valuable information about individuals and families throughout Massachusetts history.
The Value of Probate Records for Genealogy Research
Early Records (pre-1800)
May provide unusual windows onto colonial family organization and property ownership, and likely shed light on early American life.
County-specific Records
Often with unique and interesting local details, which can give broader context to family histories and legal matters, revealing community interactions and social dynamics.
Published Book Indexes
These offer researchers a quick way to locate specific probate records without needing to visit archives in person, streamlining the research process.
Online Databases
Enable remote access 24 hours a day, seven days a week to a wealth of probate information allowing researchers to perform preliminary searches from home, thereby saving time and travel expenses.
Recent Records
Allow researchers to follow families as they moved, learn how traits are passed down in families, and find family links never before discovered – all of which can add new dimensions to research on modern family dynamics.
Probate Court Record Research Services in Massachusetts
Looking for a more efficient way to access these older probate records?
Probate court files are public records available for review, copying, and purchasing as certified copies.
Available Service Areas
Bristol County Probate Records Research
Middlesex County Probate Records Research
Norfolk County Probate Records Research
Suffolk County Probate Records Research
MA Probate Records: Free Historical Resources & Databases
Access to the following databases is free at both AmericanAncestors.org and FamilySearch.org
Signing in with a valid email address is the only requirement.
Search Tip: On a FamilySearch.org page, scroll past the main description to find the dates or section of interest, then click the camera icon on the right to view the documents.
Early MA Probate Records (Pre-1700)
Mid-Period MA Probate Records (1700- late 1800's)
Later MA Probate Records (late 1700's, early 1800's-1917)
Online Probate Court Records & Indexes by MA County
Each county's courthouse holds specific indexes. Note that as of 2025, there is no statewide probate index. The following section provides a detailed breakdown of available probate records and indexes for each Massachusetts county, helping researchers pinpoint relevant resources for their specific area of interest.
| County | Available Records |
|---|---|
| Barnstable County | |
| Berkshire County | |
| Bristol County | |
| Dukes County | |
| Essex County | |
| Franklin County | |
| Hampden County | |
| Hampshire County | |
| Middlesex County | |
| Nantucket County | |
| Norfolk County | |
| Plymouth County | |
| Suffolk County | |
| Worcester County |
Published Book Indexes by County
Historical published indexes provide valuable entry points into Massachusetts probate records, often including detailed abstracts and annotations.
Bristol County
Early probate records and abstracts from 1687-1745
- Rounds, H. L. Peters. Abstracts of Bristol Co., MA Probate Records 1687-1745. Genealogical Publishing Co., Baltimore, MD: 1987. 2 Volumes.
Essex County
Comprehensive abstracts and indexes spanning 1635-1840
- Essex Institute. Probate Records of Essex Co., MA - [Abstracted 1635-1681]. Essex Institute, Salem, MA: 1921. 3 Volumes.
- Sanborn, Melinde Lutz. Essex Co. MA Probate Index 1638-1840. Self-published, Boston, MA: 1987. 2 Volumes.
Middlesex County
Complete probate record indexes spanning 1648-1910
- Folson, Samuel H., and Rogers, William E. Index to the Probate Records of the Co. of Middlesex, MA 1648-1871. Cambridge, MA: 1914.
- Folson, Samuel H., and Rogers, William E. Index to the Probate Records of the Co. of Middlesex, MA 1870-1910. Cambridge, MA: 1912.
Norfolk County
Comprehensive probate index covering 1793-1910
- Transcript Press. Probate Index Norfolk Co., MA 1793-1910. Transcript Press, Dedham, MA: 1910. 2 Volumes.
Plymouth County
Complete probate record index from 1686-1881
- Wood, Ralph. Plymouth Co. MA Probate Index 1686-1881. Picton Press, Camden, ME: 1988.
Suffolk County
Early wills and comprehensive probate indexes
- McGhan, Judith. Abstracts of the Earliest Wills Upon Record in the County of Suffolk, MA [1639-1670]. Genealogical Publishing Co., Baltimore, MD: 1984.
- George, Elijah. Index Probate Records, Suffolk Co., MA 1636-1893. Boston, MA: 1895. 3 Volumes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about accessing and using Massachusetts probate records.
How do I request physical copies?
Contact the specific county courthouse directly or use our research services for assistance. Each county has its own procedures and fees for obtaining copies of probate records. Most courthouses require written requests with specific information about the record you're seeking.
What are the associated fees?
Database access at AmericanAncestors.org and FamilySearch.org is free with registration. Courthouse fees for certified copies typically range from $20-$25 per document. Our basic research service fee is $45, plus any courthouse fees, such as certified records. This is usually $20-$25 per document.
How long does retrieval take?
Standard processing time is 7-10 business days. Expedited service is available but is a custom process. Reach out to us if interested. Additional time may be needed for older records that require special handling or for records stored in off-site facilities.
What information is needed to search?
Basic requirements include the person's name and approximate date of the probate event. Additional helpful information includes the county where probate was filed, names of surviving family members, and property locations. The more information provided, the more accurate the search results.
Can I visit courthouses in person?
Yes, all Massachusetts probate courts are open to the public during regular business hours. However, appointments may be required for accessing historical records, and some records may be stored off-site. Contact the specific courthouse before visiting to confirm record availability.
Are certified copies available?
Yes, certified copies are available for all probate records. These are required for legal purposes such as estate settlements, property transfers, and court proceedings. Certification fees vary by county but typically range from $20-$25 per document.
