Overview of Probate and Court Records
Probate and court records are among the most valuable genealogical resources, often revealing family relationships not found elsewhere. These records may include wills, estate settlements, guardianships, court orders, and civil actions.
In Meade County, probate matters were typically handled by the county court. Records may exist from the county's formation in 1823 forward.
Types of Probate Records
- Wills and codicils
- Estate administrations
- Inventories and appraisements
- Settlements and distributions
- Guardianship records
- Executor and administrator bonds
Types of Court Records
- County court minute books
- Civil lawsuits
- Land and deed disputes
- Apprenticeship records
- Road orders and local governance records
Online Probate & Court Record Resources
- FamilySearch Catalog - Meade County, Kentucky (search under Probate records and Court records)
- FamilySearch - Kentucky Probate Records
- Ancestry.com - Probate & Court Records
- Findmypast - Kentucky Court Records
- Kentuckiana Genealogy - indexes, transcriptions, and message boards
Official Court and Government Sources
- Kentucky Court of Justice - Meade County
- Meade County Government Official Website
- National Archives - Court Records Overview
Research Tips
Probate records may exist even when no will was written. Administrations for intestate estates often include lists of heirs, creditors, and land descriptions.
Court minutes and order books can reveal everyday details such as road maintenance, tax levies, apprenticeships, and guardianships - all of which can help place individuals in a specific time and place.
Always search probate and court records broadly, including relatives, neighbors, and associates, as families frequently appear together in these documents.