Kershaw County Marriage Records Research

Kershaw County marriage records date back to 1911 and are maintained by the Probate Court. Kershaw County sits in the midlands region of South Carolina. The county seat is Camden, one of the oldest inland cities in the state. Residents obtain marriage licenses through the Probate Court office. The county serves couples throughout Camden, Lugoff, Elgin, and Bethune areas.

Kershaw County Probate Court Marriage License Services

The Kershaw County Probate Court handles all marriage licenses for the county. This office sits in the courthouse in Camden. Staff issue licenses and keep records for all marriages in the county.

Kershaw County started keeping marriage records in 1911. This was when South Carolina began statewide registration. Records from 1938 to 1950 are also available through some genealogy databases.

The Probate Court office is open during regular business hours. Both parties must come in person to apply. The staff helps couples through the process.

How to Apply for a Kershaw County Marriage License

Getting a marriage license in Kershaw County requires both parties to appear. The process follows South Carolina state law. The Probate Court staff will help you with each step.

Visit the Probate Court at the courthouse in Camden. Both people must bring valid photo ID. Driver's licenses and passports work well.

Fill out the application with correct facts. Staff check your IDs and file the forms. The form asks for basic facts about each person.

Under S.C. Code Ann. § 20-1-220, a twenty-four hour wait applies. Kershaw County cannot give the license until one day after you apply. Plan your wedding with this in mind.

The license fee in Kershaw County is set by state law. Call the office to check current fees. Bring exact change when you can.

How to Get Certified Copies of Kershaw County Marriage Records

Kershaw County gives certified copies of marriage licenses. These papers are often needed for legal uses. The Probate Court handles requests in person or by mail.

Certified copies cost a fee set by the court. You can pay in person with cash or check. Mail requests need a check or money order.

To request copies, give both full names and the wedding date. This helps staff find the right record. Processing takes about one business day.

Copies can be mailed to your home. Include a stamped envelope with mail requests. Rush service may cost extra.

Certified copies have the seal of Kershaw County. They work for name changes and other legal needs.

Historical Kershaw County Marriage Records

Kershaw County has kept marriage records since 1911. These old papers give useful family history facts. The set includes records from the early 1900s to now.

Some older records may be found at the South Carolina Department of Archives and History. They hold various county records on microfilm. Kershaw County records from 1938 to 1950 are part of some online collections.

The Camden Archives and Museum also holds local history items. They have papers about the area's past. Visit their site to learn what they offer.

Digital copies of old marriage records are more common now. Check online lists for scanned papers. The Probate Court has records back to 1911.

Kershaw County Marriage Records for Genealogy Research

Kershaw County marriage records help trace family roots. The records show names, dates, and family ties. Genealogists use these facts to build family trees.

The South Carolina Department of Archives and History holds old records. They have microfilm of many county records. Visit their office in Columbia for help.

FamilySearch has some Kershaw County records online. Their wiki page lists what is available. Some records are free to view.

The Camden Archives is a good local source. They know the area's history well. Staff can point you to the right records.

Note: Library and archive resources add to court records. For certified copies, contact the Probate Court directly.

Kershaw County Marriage License Requirements

Kershaw County follows South Carolina law for marriage licenses. Both people must meet basic rules. The Probate Court checks facts before giving licenses.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Those aged 16-17 need parent consent and court approval. Call the court for facts about underage marriage steps.

No blood tests are needed in South Carolina. This makes the process easier. You do not need medical papers.

Prior marriages must be legally ended. Bring divorce papers or death certificates if needed. The court needs proof that old marriages are over.

There is no residency rule for marriage in Kershaw County. People from other states can apply here. Your license works anywhere in South Carolina.

Kershaw County Marriage License Waiting Period

South Carolina law sets a 24-hour waiting period. Kershaw County follows this rule. The clock starts when you file your application.

Apply at least one day before your wedding. The Probate Court cannot skip this wait. Plan ahead to avoid stress.

The waiting period lets couples think about their choice. It is a state law for all counties. Kershaw County staff will tell you when to return.

Once issued, the license is good for use. There is no extra wait after you get it. You can marry right away after pickup.

Cities in Kershaw County

Kershaw County has several towns and communities. All marriage licenses for county residents come from the Kershaw County Probate Court.

Camden is the largest town in Kershaw County. The Probate Court serves all areas within the county lines.

Nearby Counties

Kershaw County touches several other South Carolina counties. Marriage licenses must be obtained where the wedding takes place. Check your venue location before you apply.

View All 46 Counties