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Guide to Genealogical Research in the National Archives, Third Edition

The National Archives contains a wealth of information about individuals whose names appear in census records, military service and pension files, ship passenger arrival lists, land records, and many other types of documents of interest to both beginning and experienced genealogists. The award-winning Guide shows how to tap this rich resource, explaining what types of records are preserved in the National Archives and what specific information about individuals is included in each type of record.

This new Guide supersedes the 1985 edition. A complete revision and enlargement, it covers records not described in the earlier version and includes references to information available through the NARA web site. The volume also contains illustrations and photographs, citations to many new and previously cited microfilm publications, and expanded and clarified descriptions of the relevant records held by the National Archives and Records Administration.

Highlights of the new edition include:

  • New information on the 1920 census
  • Increased coverage of naturalizations
  • Citations to more than 300 new microfilm publications
  • Descriptions of many records accessioned since the last edition
  • A comprehensive, greatly expanded index
  • Enlarged chapters on African Americans and Native Americans
  • More coverage of records in NARA's regional archival facilities

The Guide is an indispensable aid for researching family genealogy, local history, and social trends. Beyond its extraordinary reference value, the Guide will fascinate all curious readers and inspire a deep appreciation of America's rich documentary heritage.

8 1/2" x 11", 420 pages, 59 illustrations
National Archives and Records Administration, 2001

# 100001 Hardcover $39
ISBN 0-911333-00-2

#200001 Softcover $25
ISBN 0-911333-01-0

How To Order

 


Selected as an Outstanding Reference Source by the American Library Association

Praise for the First Edition

"This guide is a must for both the novice and the experienced genealogist."
--Genealogical Helper

"Amazingly complete. . .This book should find a place on every scholar's bookshelf."
--Journal of Southern History

"This is the sort of volume that induces late-night browsiness…
The surprise is how engaging government can be once bureaucracy breaks down into such discrete matters as passenger arrival lists, bounty land records, and . . .claims maps. What was red tape a century ago becomes . . .connective tissue today."
--Los Angeles Times

How to Order the Genealogy Guide

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The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration
1-86-NARA-NARA or 1-866-272-6272