Chicago Adoptions

Illinois is a closed-adoption state.  However, the following can request an Original Birth Certificate (OBC) from the State of Illinois (see link below):

• Adult Adopted Person – 21 years of age or older
• Adult Surrendered Person – 21 years of age or older 
• Adoptive Parent - Adopted person must be younger than 21 years of age
• Surviving Relative of a Deceased Adopted/Surrendered Person - Adult child of deceased adopted/surrendered person or remaining parent of a minor child or the adoptive parent
• Surviving Relative of Deceased Birth Parent - Adult child (not placed for adoption), sister or brother to the deceased birth parent
• Legal Guardian
• https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/birth-death-other-records/adoption/iarmie.html.

In addition, there is a trick to search for a "Legal Notice of Adoption" printed in the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin.  These newspaper notices can be viewed on microfilm at the DePaul Rinn Law Library in downtown Chicago and start at least in the early 1900's. I have had success for clients and found notices that include the name of the adopting parents and the original name of the child.  

There are various ways to find Chicago Orphanage Records.  Early collections exist at the Chicago History Museum, UIC Library, Newberry Library, Catholic Charities, and more.  Contact us today to find out if records exist for your family.