Windsor Connecticut Marriage Records and Licenses
Windsor is Connecticut's first English settlement, founded in 1633, and maintains a rich heritage preserved through its vital records. The Windsor Town Clerk serves as the local Registrar of Vital Statistics, maintaining all marriage records for ceremonies performed within this historic Hartford County town. Couples can apply for marriage licenses at this office. Individuals seeking certified copies of marriage certificates will find dedicated staff ready to help. The town's long history makes its archives particularly valuable for researchers.
Windsor Marriage Records Quick Facts
Windsor Town Clerk Office Location and Contact
The Windsor Town Clerk is located at 275 Broad Street, Windsor, CT 06095. This office serves as the Registrar of Vital Statistics for Connecticut's oldest settlement. All marriage licenses for Windsor ceremonies are issued here. The office maintains extensive historical archives spanning nearly four centuries. Staff members are knowledgeable about both current procedures and historical records.
You can contact the Town Clerk at (860) 285-1800. Phone inquiries are welcomed. Staff can answer questions about requirements. They can explain the application process. They can verify current fee amounts and office hours.
The office operates regular business hours Monday through Friday. Holiday schedules follow town closures. Plan your visit with sufficient time. Some requests require extended processing. Early arrival ensures adequate time for service.
Marriage License Applications at Windsor Town Clerk
Couples must apply in person together. Both parties must be present at the office. This is required by Connecticut state law. The application process is efficient. Most couples complete it in one visit.
Bring current photo identification. A valid driver's license works perfectly. A passport is equally acceptable. You must know your social security numbers. Proof of age is mandatory.
The license fee is $50. This is established by state statute. Payment methods should be confirmed in advance. Different offices accept different forms. Cash and checks are commonly accepted.
- Both parties must appear in person together
- Valid government-issued photo ID required
- Social security numbers must be provided
- No blood test required in Connecticut
- License expires after 65 days
The license is valid immediately upon issuance. Your ceremony can occur the same day. You must marry within 65 days. Plan your timeline carefully. Late ceremonies require a new license.
Getting Certified Copies of Windsor Marriage Records
After your wedding ceremony, certified copies serve many purposes. You need them for legal name changes. Insurance companies request them. Government agencies require proof. Financial institutions may need documentation.
Windsor charges $20 per certified copy. This matches the standard Connecticut fee. Consider ordering multiple copies initially. Three to five copies meet most needs. Additional copies can be ordered later.
In-person requests provide fastest service. Visit the Town Clerk office. Bring photo identification. Know the date of your ceremony. Staff can usually provide same-day service.
Mail requests work for those who cannot visit. Send a detailed written request. Include all relevant names and dates. Enclose payment and ID copy. Allow sufficient processing time.
Note: The officiant must file the completed license before certificates can be issued. Recent weddings may have a brief delay.
Historical Marriage Records in Windsor
Windsor's status as Connecticut's first settlement gives it unique historical significance. The town's marriage records span centuries of history. Genealogists find invaluable resources here. Family historians trace lineages back to colonial times. The archives are among the most extensive in the state.
The Town Clerk maintains records from 1897 in the current system. Earlier records are carefully preserved. Some historical documents may be archived at the Connecticut State Library. The State Library has extensive colonial records. Their collection complements the town's archives.
Researchers should come prepared with specific information. Know the approximate time period. Have the full names of ancestors. Narrow your search as much as possible. Staff can help locate specific records when given adequate details.
State-Level Resources for Windsor Marriage Records
The Connecticut Department of Public Health keeps copies. Their records cover July 1, 1897 to present. State copies provide backup access. They complement local services well.
The State Vital Records Office is located at 410 Capitol Avenue in Hartford. They accept walk-in visitors. Mail requests are processed. Online ordering is available through VitalChek. State processing typically takes longer than town requests.
State fees are $20 per copy. Payment must be postal money order. Personal checks are not accepted. Make money orders payable to "Treasurer, State of Connecticut." Include complete request information.
Visit portal.ct.gov/dph for state information. The website provides comprehensive guidance. It explains all available services. It lists current requirements.
Legal Framework for Windsor Marriage Record Access
Connecticut statutes govern access to marriage records. C.G.S. ยง 7-51a establishes public access. Anyone 18 or older may request certified copies. No special relationship is required. No stated reason is needed.
This open access supports legitimate needs. Genealogists research family histories. Legal professionals verify status. Researchers study trends. Journalists report facts. Transparency serves the public interest.
Privacy protections balance this access. Social security numbers are excluded from public copies. This prevents identity theft. Only the married couple can access complete records. Identity verification protects privacy.
Marriage Records in Nearby Hartford County Locations
Windsor is located in northern Hartford County. Several neighboring towns maintain their own vital records. Expand your search to these communities if needed.