Saguache County Genealogy Records

Saguache County is in the San Luis Valley of southern Colorado. The county seat is Saguache. It was formed in 1866. The name comes from a Ute word meaning "blue earth." The area has a rich multicultural history. Many families farmed and ranched here for generations.

The Clerk and Recorder in Saguache keeps vital and land records. Marriage and land records date to the 1860s. Some birth and death records exist from early years. The office can help with genealogy searches. Call ahead to plan your visit.

Saguache County Clerk and Recorder

The Clerk and Recorder in Saguache County keeps many records. They issue marriage licenses. They record land documents. The office is on the main floor of the courthouse. You can visit to search records. Staff can help you find what you need.

All records are open to the public. You can view them for free. Certified copies cost a fee. The office follows state rules under C.R.S. 24-80. Some older records may be on microfilm. Call ahead to check availability.

Vital Records in Saguache County

Vital records are key for genealogy. In Saguache County, the Clerk has some records. But many are held elsewhere. The Colorado Department of Public Health has birth and death records from 1910. Call 303-692-2200.

Recent vital records are private under C.R.S. 25-2-117. Only family can get copies. The cost is $20 per copy. You can order online at VitalChek. Fees go up in 2026.

The Colorado State Archives has older records. They may have Saguache County documents. Use their search database. It is free to use. The Archives is in Denver. Call 303-866-2358.

Marriage Records in Saguache County

Marriage records in Saguache County go back to 1866. The Clerk and Recorder keeps all licenses. These are public. You can get a certified copy. Visit the office or call to request one.

The State Archives marriage index covers 1890 to 1939. It includes Saguache County. Search online for free. The index gives license numbers. Use this to find the full record.

Land and Property Records

Land records in Saguache County date to 1866. The Clerk and Recorder keeps deeds and mortgages. These show property ownership over time. You can search at the Saguache office. Indexes help you find records.

The San Luis Valley has a unique land history. Spanish and Mexican land grants were common. Later records show how these were divided. Land records can reveal family connections. They show property passed through generations.

Colorado State Archives Resources

The Colorado State Archives holds Saguache County records. State law C.R.S. 24-80 guides their work. They have court records and other documents. You need an appointment to visit. Call 303-866-2358.

The Archives Search Database is online. You can search from home. It has names and record types. Not everything is included. But it is a good starting point.

Helpful Websites

Many resources are online. Here are key sites:

• Colorado State Archives - State-level records
• FamilySearch - Free genealogy database
• Saguache County Clerk - Local records
• CDPHE Vital Records - Birth and death certificates

FamilySearch has a wiki for Saguache County. It lists available records. Check it for research tips.

Nearby Counties

Ancestors may have lived in nearby areas. Check these counties: