The probate case files at the Institute for Regional Studies span from the beginning of the administering of probate proceedings in Cass County in the 1870s to  circa 1952. Individual files vary as to the type and number of documents and the information included. A typical file includes legal documents filed with the court, appointment of administrator, any will, proof of publication notices, inventories, bills, receipts, etc. Of special note, a number of the probate files are for individuals residing elsewhere, but apparently had property in Cass County.

Access and Obtaining Copies

The Cass County probate records are open for public use in the research room of the Institute for Regional Studies. Photocopying is available. Mail and e-mail photocopy requests are accepted at a minimum charge of $5.00 per probate file. Due to the varying number of documents in a particular case the final cost can only be determined upon staff inspection of the actual case file and its contents. The minimum charge of $5.00 includes up to 25 pages of photocopying. Copies over 25 pages cost 40 cents per page. An estimate to the number of pages will be provided if requested. Mail and e-mail requests should include the name of the person and the PH/Case Number, as found in the on-line database.

For e-mail requests please be sure to include your postal address. Prepayment is not required (unless the order is over $75.00). A university billing will be sent with the photocopies. To bill an individual the NDSU Business Office requires the requester’s data of birth (used to set up your account). You may contact the Institute via e-mail at: ndsu.library.archives@ndsu.edu or regular mail

Update history

Database mounted September 2003
Database enhanced with date and place of death, May 2004
Additional records added, October 2004 (5,234 total records)
670 additional probate records added May 20, 2009 (5,904 total records)