Death notices are public announcements that someone has passed away. They serve as both a notification to the community and a tribute to the deceased.
Looking back at old death notices in Haverhill, MA, offers a unique glimpse into the community’s history and the lives of those who shaped it. These glimpses offer insights into the past.
This article explores what you can find in Haverhill, MA, death notices, where to find them, and why they’re valuable resources for historical and genealogical research.
Key components of a Haverhill death notice
Death notices, sometimes called obituaries, generally contain specific information about the deceased. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a death notice from Haverhill, MA.
Biographical information
A death notice usually includes:
- The full name of the deceased. Make sure the spelling is accurate.
- Date of birth and death, as well as the deceased’s age.
- Place of birth and place of death, especially if that place wasn’t Haverhill.
Family information
A death notice also typically names:
- The surviving spouse, children, and parents. The spouse is usually listed first.
- Any family members who died before the deceased, with a note that the deceased was “predeceased by…”
- The number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, which offers a sense of the size and legacy of the family.
Funeral and memorial service details
Finally, the death notice will provide details about:
- The location, date, and time of the funeral service, including the name and address of the church or funeral home.
- Information about any visitations or wakes, including dates and times for viewings.
- Cemetery or cremation information, including the name and location of the cemetery.
Where to find Haverhill death notices
If you’re looking for death notices from Haverhill, Massachusetts, there are several places you can look.
Local newspapers
The Haverhill Gazette has long been the primary source for death notices in the Haverhill area. You may be able to find back issues of the Gazette online or in local libraries.
In addition to the Gazette, smaller community newspapers and newsletters may have published death notices.
Funeral homes
Many funeral homes now keep online portals where you can view current and past obituaries. Here are a few of the funeral homes serving Haverhill and the surrounding area:
- Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home
- Driscoll Funeral Home & Cremation Service
- H.L. Farmer & Sons Funeral Homes and Cremation Service
Some funeral homes also keep historical records, so it’s worth reaching out to find out what they have available.
Online genealogy resources
Websites like Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org index death records and obituary databases. You may also find information through local historical societies, such as the Haverhill Historical Society.
City records
The Haverhill City Clerk’s office keeps vital records, including death certificates.
What Death Notices Reveal About Haverhill’s History and Community
Beyond the individual stories of loss, death notices, especially when viewed collectively over time, offer a fascinating lens through which to examine the history and evolution of a community like Haverhill.
Demographic Trends
A review of death notices can reveal trends in lifespan and the causes of death over the years, offering insights into public health initiatives and medical advancements that have impacted the community. You can also trace migration patterns into and out of Haverhill through the names and places of origin mentioned in obituaries.
Social and Cultural Norms
Death notices often reflect the social and cultural norms prevalent in Haverhill at different points in time. Religious affiliations and practices are often highlighted in funeral arrangements, providing a glimpse into the dominant religious denominations within the community. Mentions of organizations, clubs, and volunteer work reveal the community involvement and civic contributions of the deceased. Family structures and kinship networks are also illuminated, showcasing the size of families and the importance of extended family relationships.
Occupational History
The obituaries of Haverhill residents offer a snapshot of the common occupations and industries that have shaped the local economy. From shoe manufacturing to agriculture and other industries, death notices provide valuable information about the types of jobs held and businesses owned, showcasing the contributions of individuals to the economic fabric of the community.
How to find Haverhill death notices
Finding a death notice can feel like detective work. Here are a few tips to guide you:
- Online databases: When searching online, try using different keywords, alternate spellings of names, and broad date ranges. Sometimes records have errors.
- Newspaper archives: Local libraries and historical societies often keep newspaper archives. These can be a goldmine for finding older death notices. Contact them to see what resources they have available.
- Funeral homes: Funeral homes sometimes keep records of past services. Call them to see if they can help. Be polite and explain what information you’re looking for.
- Be aware of limitations: Not all death notices are complete or accurate. Some records might be missing information or have errors. If you can’t find a specific death notice, it doesn’t necessarily mean a death didn’t occur.
The Bottom Line
Death notices are so much more than just names and dates. They’re pieces of history that help genealogists and other researchers fill in the gaps in the stories of families and communities. They’re also a reminder of the individuals who shaped the world we live in today.
Behind every name, there’s a life lived, a story to be told. Taking the time to read and remember these death notices is a valuable way to honor the deceased and ensure their contributions aren’t forgotten.
So, explore these resources. Preserve them. Share them. Let’s keep these stories alive.