The State Archives is responsible for acquiring, preserving, and referencing the documentary holdings of the State Historical Society of North Dakota. It is the depository for the records of enduring value produced by state agencies and local government offices. The division also acquires and preserves all types of research materials relating to North Dakota and the Northern Great Plains, including manuscript collections, books, periodicals, maps, newspapers, audio and video materials, and photographs.
The State Archives is the official repository of the historic records of state and local government in North Dakota. These records document the organization, function, policies, and transactions of government in counties, municipalities, townships, school districts, and in all branches of state government.
Manuscripts are letters, diaries, photos, maps, and other unpublished materials from private individuals and organizations that document economic, social, cultural, and political life. Both archives and manuscript collections can provide researchers with insight into North Dakota history through use of unpublished sources.
Genealogical resources at the State Archives are available in the Orin G. Libby Memorial Reading Room during regular business hours. The reference staff will attempt to answer specific requests by phone, email, or mail if you are unable to visit the North Dakota Heritage Center. Although SHSND materials generally do not circulate, most newspapers, state censuses, and early atlases are available on microfilm through interlibrary loan. We encourage researchers to use interlibrary loan as we are unable to process requests for in-depth research.
Address:
612 East Boulevard Ave.
Bismarck, North Dakota 58505
Get Directions
Hours:
State Museum and Store: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. M-F; Sat. & Sun. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
We are closed New Year's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
We will also be closed on Christmas Eve this year.
State Archives: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. M-F, except state holidays; 2nd Sat. of each month, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
State Historical Society offices: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. M-F, except state holidays.
Contact Us:
phone: 701.328.2666
email: histsoc@nd.gov
