Custer County Marriage Vital Records
Custer County marriage records are maintained at the Clerk and Recorder office in Westcliffe. This mountain county in the Wet Mountain Valley includes the communities of Silver Cliff and Rosita. The scenic county seat handles marriage license applications and provides copies of records for ceremonies performed within Custer County.
Where to Get Marriage Records in Custer County
The Custer County Clerk and Recorder maintains all marriage records for this picturesque mountain region. Located in Westcliffe, this office serves residents of the Wet Mountain Valley. Staff issue marriage licenses to couples planning weddings. They also preserve and provide copies of completed marriage certificates.
Residents of Westcliffe, Silver Cliff, and rural Custer County use this office. The mountain setting attracts couples seeking scenic wedding locations. The county's natural beauty makes it a popular choice for destination ceremonies.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment provides marriage verifications. This service confirms a marriage took place in Custer County. Verifications cost $25 for the first copy. Additional copies are $20 each. Order through VitalChek at 866-632-2604.
Historical records may be found at the Colorado State Archives. Their collection includes documents from Custer County's early mining days. The online index covers marriages from 1890 to 1939.
Custer County Clerk and Recorder Office
The Clerk and Recorder office in Westcliffe serves all of Custer County. This charming mountain town sits in the Wet Mountain Valley with stunning peak views. The office handles marriage licenses, property records, and elections. Staff assist couples with applications and provide certified copies of certificates.
Contact the Custer County Clerk and Recorder using the details below. Calling ahead is recommended. Mountain weather can affect travel to Westcliffe. Staff can advise on current procedures and required identification.
| Office | Custer County Clerk and Recorder |
|---|---|
| Address | 205 South 6th Street, Westcliffe, CO 81252 |
| Phone | (719) 783-2441 |
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM |
| Website | custercounty-co.gov |
Marriage License Requirements in Custer County
Applying for a marriage license in Custer County follows Colorado state requirements. The process is straightforward for couples. You will need proper identification and payment for fees. Understanding the rules helps ensure your wedding proceeds without delays.
Under C.R.S. § 14-2-106, applicants must be 18 or older to marry without restrictions. Those aged 16 or 17 need judicial approval and parental consent. Both parties need valid government-issued photo ID. At least one party must appear in person at the Clerk and Recorder office. No blood test is required.
The license fee includes statutory amounts. These cover the base license cost plus contributions to domestic abuse programs. The license becomes valid immediately upon issuance. It remains valid for 35 days. Plan your ceremony within this window.
Colorado allows self-solemnization. Couples may marry without an officiant. This appeals to many seeking intimate mountain ceremonies. After the wedding, return the signed certificate within 63 days. Late filings incur fees under C.R.S. § 14-2-109.
Ordering Certified Copies from Custer County
After your wedding in Custer County, certified copies of your marriage certificate serve many purposes. You may need them for name changes, insurance updates, or legal matters. The Custer County Clerk and Recorder provides these copies. Contact their Westcliffe office to request them.
To order, provide the full names of both parties and the marriage date. Include payment for copy fees. Call ahead to confirm current pricing. Most counties charge per certified document.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment offers marriage verifications. These confirm a marriage occurred but are not certified copies. Order through VitalChek at 866-632-2604. Verifications cost $25 for the first copy. Processing takes about 30 business days.
Note: Some agencies require certified copies from the county. Others accept state verifications. Check with the requesting organization before ordering.
Historical Marriage Records in Custer County
Custer County was established in 1877 during Colorado's mining boom. The county preserves records from this colorful era. The Colorado State Archives maintains many historic marriage documents. Researchers can search the online database for ancestors who married in the Westcliffe or Silver Cliff areas.
The Statewide Marriage Index covers 1890 to 1939. This searchable database includes Custer County marriages. You can search from home before visiting the Archives. The Archives is located at 1313 Sherman Street in Denver.
FamilySearch offers a broader index covering 1853 to 2006. This resource may help locate Custer County marriages not in the state index. For records after 1960, contact the Custer County Clerk and Recorder directly. The Archives typically does not hold newer documents.
Note: Most Colorado marriage records lack parents' names. This is important for genealogists to remember.