About Us

In 1980, then County Commissioners Marvin Finke, Bill Davis and Ray Marr Jr. put forth the plan for the Bartholomew County Archives. With their understanding of the need to preserve our history, Bartholomew County's oldest documents were rescued from the 4th floor of the Bartholomew County Courthouse and put in a more appropriate setting. The Archives was dedicated on November 18, 1988 and is located on the first floor of the Bartholomew County Courthouse.

Some areas of search include deeds, wills, and cemeteries. The Archives department offers tours to area schools and welcomes all to come and learn more about the history of Bartholomew County. The public is welcome to come and see the photo of General Joseph Bartholomew (for whom the county is named), learn the history of the Courthouse, see the original bell, and search data as far back as the 1800's.

The Bartholomew County Archives Department is responsible for the collection, arrangement, and cataloguing of the archived public records of the county, which includes the following:

  • Deeds
  • Estates
  • Circuit Court
  • Probate
  • State
  • Common Plea
  • Cemetery Records


Staff

Department Head: Brooke Bowers

Request Procedure

Procedure for Requesting a Document


Copies can be requested using the following methods:

  •     Online (recommended): On the home page of the County website, use the "Search Archives" menu item, or the 'Search' tab on this page.
  •     Mail to: 234 Washington Street, Columbus, Indiana 47201 (Attn: Tina Jeffries)
  •     Phone: 812 379-1503

You will be notified when we receive your request, and then once again when your request is completed, along with the amount that you owe.

Cost for copies:

There is a $1 base fee plus .10 cents for each copy plus mailing costs. Accepted payments include: Check or Money Order.   Copies will be mailed once payment has been received. All payments are to be made to “Bartholomew County Treasurer”

 

How Do I...

How do I request archived records?

Archived records can be requested through our Archives Department, via phone, mail, or the 'Search Archives' function.

How do I find out when I can visit the Archives?

You will need to call the Archives at (812) 379-1503 to schedule an appointment since the office hours vary.

How do I pay for requested archive materials?

Check or money order only at this time.  Once payment has been received copies requested will be sent via USPS or can be picked up at the Archives' Office through appointment only.

How do I receive requested archived documents?

Requested archived documents are sent either through USPS mail or can be picked up by appointment.  Documents are not emailed at this time.

How do I request marriage records?

Archives houses marriage records returned from the state only.  You will need to contact the Bartholomew County Clerk's Office for the actual license and application.

How do I find out the timeframe the archive records cover?

Years range from the 1800’s to early 1900’s.  Additional detailed dates can be obtained by contacting the Archives Department.

How do I request birth and death records?

The Bartholomew County Archives does not house birth or death records.  They are obtained through the Bartholomew County Health Department.

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