The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is the nation’s largest repository of federal records, holding millions of documents that tell America’s story. For genealogists, NARA is a treasure trove of original materials that can unlock new details about ancestors.
What You’ll Find
NARA preserves records created by federal agencies, including:
- Military records (service, pensions, draft registrations)
- Immigration and naturalization files
- Land and homestead applications
- Census schedules (1790–1940)
- Court and federal employment records
First Steps
- Use the online catalog (https://catalog.archives.gov) to search by name, record type, or location.
- Check finding aids—guides that explain which series of records exist and where they are stored.
- Decide if your research can be done online (digitized records on NARA’s site, Ancestry, Fold3, FamilySearch) or if you need an in-person visit.
Tip: Many NARA holdings are stored offsite, so planning ahead is crucial.