Non-Member Research Options
Search Options for Non-Members
The Rocktown History master database is free to everyone. Non-members can use this database to perform simple searches for persons of interest to see which types of records may be available (birth records, marriage records, obituaries, etc.). If you'd like to receive a copy of an obituary, we charge $5.00 per record. Simply follow these steps:
1. Visit our Donation page. Click Here
2. Pay for the records or other services you need. In the notes section, add a description i.e. "Obituary - John Smith"
3. Once payment is received, a copy of the requested records will be emailed to you.
4. Alternatively, you can mail a check to Rocktown History at P.O. Box 716, VA 22821.
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If you are local and prefer to visit the library in person, you can obtain copies at a reduced rate.
Note: Obituaries and other detailed records are free for Rocktown History Members. Memberships start at $30. Click here to join now.
Search Tips
Be patient. Our databases are large and may require a few moments to load.
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Begin by using the surname search to find a list of people whose names include the one you have entered. Example: if your search is “Smith” the results will include Goldsmith, Messersmith, and Smith.
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​Next, use the full name search to locate a specific individual—be careful to follow the format rules [Last Name, space, First Name]. Try entering only the first letter of the first name to expand your search results.
If you do not see the name you are interested in on the list, we may be able to find more information about them in other areas of the library. We offer one free 30-minute lookup - please email your request to researcher@rocktownhistory.org and provide full name, birth, death, and marriage dates, and any other info that could help with the search.
To search the Rocktown History Collections (photos, archives, objects, and library catalog), click here.
