Guides to collections

Discover valuable insights with our series of guides to some of the National Archives’ most important and widely used collections. While these guides showcase only a small fraction of our holdings, they offer a glimpse into the extensive information available for research.

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Our guides simplify research for scholars, historians, genealogists, and history enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the diverse materials we hold, from manuscripts to modern court records.

Each guide provides a concise overview of a collection, placing it within its historical context to help you understand its significance. This helps researchers see how the records contribute to broader historical narratives and adds depth to their research.

The guides highlight various types of records, including manuscripts, photographs, maps, and official documents, to help you quickly identify the materials most relevant to your work.

Our goal in offering these guides is to simplify research for scholars, historians, genealogists, and anyone with an interest in history. Whether you’re tracing family roots, studying historical events, or conducting academic research, these guides are an excellent starting point to uncover the rich diversity of our collections.

We are committed to preserving history and making it accessible to all, and these guides are a key resource in helping you navigate the wealth of materials we hold.