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The Pennsylvania State Archives preserves the memory of the Commonwealth, housing over 250 million pages of documents, maps, photographs, and films that reveal the rich history of Pennsylvania. With its vast collection, the Pennsylvania State Archives is an invaluable resource for researchers, students, and history enthusiasts alike.
The story of the Pennsylvania State Archives dates back to 1903 when the Commonwealth established the Pennsylvania Historical Commission. This body was responsible for preserving and maintaining historical records and artifacts. In 1945, the Pennsylvania Historical Commission became the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC), which now oversees the Pennsylvania State Archives.
The Pennsylvania State Archives initially shared its location with the State Museum and State Library in the State Capitol Building. However, as the collection grew, the need for a separate facility became apparent. The archives found their current home in 1964, with the completion of a dedicated building at 350 North Street, Harrisburg.
The Pennsylvania State Archives boasts an incredible variety of records that document the history of the state from its founding in 1681 to the present day. These records cover a wide range of topics, including politics, military, education, and transportation, among others.
As the official repository of state government records, the Pennsylvania State Archives houses documents from the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. These records include governors' papers, legislative journals, and court proceedings. Additionally, the archives contain records from various state agencies, such as the Department of Environmental Protection and the Pennsylvania State Police.
The military history of Pennsylvania is well represented in the Pennsylvania State Archives. Researchers can access records dating back to the French and Indian War, Revolutionary War, Civil War, and both World Wars. The archives also include records related to the Pennsylvania National Guard and various militia organizations.
Land and property records form a significant part of the collection at the Pennsylvania State Archives. These records contain invaluable information on land ownership, deeds, and property transfers, offering a fascinating insight into the history of land settlement in Pennsylvania.
The Pennsylvania State Archives is an excellent resource for genealogists and family historians, as it contains census records from 1790 to 1930. Census records can provide valuable information on families, including names, ages, occupations, and places of birth.
In addition to documents, the Pennsylvania State Archives holds an extensive collection of maps, photographs, and films. Maps in the collection date back to the 17th century and cover various topics, from land surveys to transportation networks. The archives' photograph collection features images of historical events, people, and places, while the film collection includes footage of significant moments in Pennsylvania history.
The Pennsylvania State Archives is open to the public, and anyone with an interest in history is welcome to visit. The archives' knowledgeable staff are always on hand to assist researchers and answer questions. For those who cannot visit the archives in person, many records are available online through the PHMC's website.
The research room at the Pennsylvania State Archives provides a quiet space for visitors to explore the archives' vast collections. Before accessing records, researchers must complete a registration form and present a valid form of photo identification. Pencils, laptops, and cameras are allowed in the research room, but pens, food, and drinks are not permitted.
For those unable to visit the Pennsylvania State Archives in person, the PHMC offers a range of online resources that provide access to a wealth of historical records. The PHMC's website features a comprehensive digital collections catalog, allowing users to search for specific records or browse through various categories. Digitized documents, maps, photographs, and films can be viewed online, bringing the archives' treasures to the fingertips of researchers worldwide.
Furthermore, the PHMC has developed several online databases and research tools to facilitate historical research. These databases cover topics such as military service records, land patents, naturalization records, and more. Users can search for specific individuals, events, or locations, making it easier than ever to delve into Pennsylvania's past.
To enhance accessibility and promote engagement with the archives, the PHMC regularly organizes virtual exhibits, online lectures, and educational resources. These offerings provide a unique opportunity for individuals to learn about different aspects of Pennsylvania's history and discover hidden gems from the Pennsylvania State Archives collection.
The preservation of historical records is a crucial undertaking, ensuring that future generations have access to the stories and experiences of those who came before. The Pennsylvania State Archives plays a vital role in safeguarding Pennsylvania's heritage, providing a home for documents that might otherwise be lost or forgotten.
The dedicated archivists and staff at the Pennsylvania State Archives work tirelessly to ensure the proper care and preservation of the collection. Documents are meticulously cataloged, digitized when possible, and stored in controlled environments to protect them from damage and decay. Through these efforts, the Pennsylvania State Archives ensures that the state's history remains alive and accessible for years to come.
Whether you are a student, researcher, historian, or simply curious about Pennsylvania's past, the Pennsylvania State Archives is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Plan a visit to the archives' research room in Harrisburg to immerse yourself in the physical records, or dive into the online resources provided by the PHMC to discover the wealth of knowledge available at your fingertips.
By delving into the Pennsylvania State Archives, you can uncover hidden stories, gain a deeper understanding of the state's history, and perhaps even connect with your own heritage. The Pennsylvania State Archives is not just a repository of documents; it is a gateway to the past, an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of those who shaped the Commonwealth. Start your journey into Pennsylvania's history today, and let the Pennsylvania State Archives be your guide.
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