Episcopal and Lutheran churches often keep records similar to Catholic churches. Denominations that do not practice infant baptism, such as the Baptists, usually keep records of the service of prayer and dedication for newborns. Baptisms for these denominations generally occur between the ages of 10 and 14. At that time, a notation is made in the dedication register indicating the date of baptism. Other denominations usually have variations of this type of ceremony.
Marriage records are also valuable sources of information.
Secular society and religious groups have long recognized the right and obligation to provide structure to the right to marry. Before a marriage is celebrated, it must be evident to the civil and religious authorities that the parties can marry. The primary concern is that incestuous marriages do not occur, although religious groups erected other impediments to marriage as well. Mixed marriages between parties of different faiths were often frowned upon, as were unions between persons of faith and nonbelievers. Death records are most useful for pinpointing a date of death and place of burial.