Research Services

Torrent House Historical Site
(The local history and genealogy dept.)

This thirty-one room mansion, built for $250,000 in 1891-92, was the home of John Torrent (1833-1915), pioneering lumberman, alderman, justice of the peace and Muskegon mayor for three terms. A successful entrepreneur, Torrent owned shingle, saw and lumber mills in Muskegon, Manistee, Ludington, Whitehall, Traverse City and Sault Ste. Marie, equipping them all with the most modern machinery. Over the years, this structure also housed a mortuary, hospital and the local Red Cross headquarters. In 1972, the city purchased the house to prevent it demolition.

Research, Cost & Payment (IMPORTANT):
Basic research in the Muskegon area is conducted by members of the Muskegon County Genealogical Society who volunteer their time for a donation of $15.00 (for members) or $35.00 (for non-members) per hour to our Society.

  • When making your request, please complete this online form below.  We will then contact you by e-mail with an estimated cost for the services that you have requested.  Research will be done when initial payment is received.
  • If you are seeking a copy of an obituary from the local newspaper or a transcribed copy of a marriage or death certificate, they can be obtained for $6.00 (for members) or $8.00 (for non-members) each, there is no additional cost.
  • If you need a “certified copy” of a marriage or death certificate – contact Muskegon County Clerk, 990 Terrace Street, Muskegon, MI 49442, or www.co.muskegon.mi.us/clerk

RESEARCH REQUEST FORM FOR MUSKEGON COUNTY ONLY!

NOTE:  YOUR “BASIC” RESEARCH WILL BE EMAILED TO YOU AT THE E-MAIL ADDRESS YOU PROVIDE BELOW.

RESTRICTIONS: One SURNAME per request – REQUIRED (*)

PAYMENT NOTICE:  After you submit the Request Form, you will be directed to the payment options page.

Research, Cost & Payment (IMPORTANT):
Basic research in the Muskegon area is conducted by members of the Muskegon County Genealogical Society who volunteer their time for a donation of $15.00 (for members) or $35.00 (for non-members) per hour to our Society.

NOTES:

Funds raised from research go toward the purchase of books, documents, maps and supplies to expand the holdings of the Local History & Genealogy Room at the Hackley Public Library – Torrent House.  Upon completion of your research request, copies of our findings are placed on file in the Local History & Genealogy Dept.

Research is conducted in the order requests/payments are received so please allow 6-8 weeks for a response.

Thank You!

Muskegon County Genealogy Research Committee