~ State Archives ~

Gen Tips

State Archives

Gen Tips Index of Tips

are located in the State Archives.  Each state has one of these.  It is a central repository for state records and there are a vast amount of records stored in each of them.  These contain a wealth of information.  All of the ones I have visited have all their holdings indexed and readily available to locate for you along with a staff who prove to be extremely helpful.  A visit to the state archives where you are searching will usually turn up "pay dirt".  Be prepared to spend some time digging though.  Don't try to do it all in one day.  If possible, give yourself at least 2 or 3 days to become acquainted with the records and sift through them.  

Many of them have searchable records online.  Here is a list of links to all of them for your convenience.