Brown County Marriage Records Search

Brown County marriage records stretch back to March 17, 1857, making them some of the oldest in south-central Minnesota. The County Recorder in New Ulm keeps these records and handles all license applications and certified copy requests. You can also search Brown County marriage records online for free through the statewide MOMS system. This page covers the process for getting a license or finding a record in Brown County.

Brown County Recorder

The Brown County Recorder's Office is in the county courthouse in New Ulm. This office handles marriage licenses, certified copy requests, and access to historical marriage records going back to 1857. Birth and death records from 1870 are also kept here. The Recorder offers passport services as well. Land records for the county are maintained and available for research.

Two phone numbers reach the office: 507-233-6657 and 507-233-6660. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The county website at www.browncountymn.gov has more details on services and forms.

Marriage Licenses in Brown County

Both parties must appear at the Recorder's Office in person. The standard fee is $115. If you and your partner have completed at least 12 hours of approved premarital education, the fee is $40 instead. Bring a signed, notarized educator's statement on official letterhead. The statement must come from a licensed minister or therapist and names must match the application exactly under Minnesota Statute 517.08.

Both people need valid photo ID. A driver's license, state ID, or passport all work. The application requires full legal names, birth dates, Social Security numbers, and details about any prior marriages. If either party was married before, bring the divorce decree or death certificate. The license is valid for six months and can be used anywhere in Minnesota. There is no waiting period.

You can start your application through MOMS.mn.gov before your visit. After the ceremony, the officiant must file the completed marriage certificate with the Recorder within five days. This is required under Minnesota Statute 517.10. Once filed, the record becomes part of the county's permanent marriage records and certified copies can be issued.

How to Search Brown County Marriage Records

The statewide MOMS.mn.gov database is the best starting point. It is free and covers all 87 Minnesota counties. Brown County records go back to 1857 in the system. Search by last name and first name. Add a date range if you have one. Use exact match for precise spelling, Soundex for sound-alike names, and wildcard for partial names.

Results show both parties' names, marriage date, and the county holding the record. For a certified copy, contact the Brown County Recorder. Copies are $9 each. You can request them in person or by mail. Mail requests should include names, approximate date of marriage, your contact information, and a check for $9 made out to Brown County Recorder.

Marriage records are public data in Minnesota under Chapters 13 and 517 of state law. You do not need to be a party to the marriage to request a copy. For very old records or records not indexed in MOMS, call the Recorder at 507-233-6657 for help with a manual search.

Cities in Brown County

Brown County includes New Ulm and several small communities in south-central Minnesota. No cities in Brown County meet the population threshold for a dedicated city page on this site. All marriage records for the county are handled through the Recorder's Office in New Ulm.

Nearby Counties

Brown County borders several other counties in south-central Minnesota. Apply in the county where you reside.