Adoptee/Birth Parent Searches

I generally recommend that any one wishing to search in the state of N.Y., first obtain their non identifying information from the Dept. of Vital Statistics in Albany, N.Y. and from the agency or orginization that handled the adoption. It is not uncommon for both these sources to provide different kinds of non I.D. information. The Dept. of Vital Statistics also maintains a registry. You may also request a copy of your Adoption Decree from the County Surrogate's or Family Court for the County where the adoption was finalized. However, the success rate of obtaining a copy of the decree varies from county to county.

Hint: If you were born in one of the 5 boroughs of New York City, The City Birth Index will have a certificate number that matches the certificate number on your ammended birth cirtificate. The Birth Index may list a birth name under that number.

On May 31, 1997, I was reunited with my birth sister who is currently in Maryland. I had searched on and off over the years, but was unable to get one piece of vital information. Oddly, as an investigator, I did not use all my resources to search. It was, I suppose, a form of procrastination, or fear of what I might find. I had done a few successful adoption searches for others and made the aquaintence of some very dedicated searchers that I had been able to assist, with searches they were conducting. In return for my help, one of these individuals took up my search without my knowledge. She found the key piece of info that I had been missing. With that, all the rest fell into place rapidly. Another individual made the first contact by phone, on my behalf. To these two individuals, I am eternally grateful. I spent 3 hours on the phone with my birth sister that night and have since visited with her, or her with me, a number of times. I have also met my birth father, and two half sisters. I regret that I did not get to meet my birth mother as she is deceased, however, I have come to know her through the love that my sisters have for her, and that which they have extended to me. Thank you Margie and Dori! W.Curry
We provide adoptee/birthparent search services for the NY region. If you are looking for someone in NY, or reside in NY, and would like more information on these services, please call us..

Other Adoption Search Resources
Adoption Search and Support

Birthquest: On-line registration for adoptees and birth parents, searchable database, and other links and resources.

N.Y. State Dept. of Social Services: This is an adoption support page for individuals wishing to adopt in N.Y. Also very useful in trying to understand the adoption process in N.Y., where D.S.S is involved.

Misc. Good links, resources and indexes:
Resources
Assistance, Info. and Support
More Resources
Genealogy Toolbox
Adoption & Reunion Page
Frequently Occuring Names

Genealogical Resources

U.S Census On-line: U.S Census resources for genealogical research. Also useful for researching general census info.

N.Y. Public Library: Extensive Geneaology resources including N.Y.City birth and death records, ships records and manifests, etc. 212-340-0849.

Recommended Reading

"Lost and Found" and "Journey of the Adopted Self" by Betty Jean Lifton.

NY Investigators Hotlist Index || The Adoption Hotlist Page || Return to home page

For pricing and additional services E-mailCurry, Hertweck & Associates or call 516-674-6181