How do Archives Center holdings relate to those of the NMAH?
Collections held in the Archives Center supplement or complement
those of other Museum units. Many, in fact, were transferred to the
Archives Center by curatorial divisions in the Museum. However, not all
collections in the Archives Center relate to artifact collections in the
Museum.
How is the Archives Center different from the
National Archives? What can I expect to find in the Archives Center that
I would not find in the National Archives?
The important distinction is that the National Archives' holdings
are the retired records of the federal government and its agencies.
The Archives Center does not collect original federal records. The
Archives Center's strengths are in its collections of advertising
history, history of technology and invention, and history of American
popular music.
Can I do genealogical (family history) research at
the Archives Center?
While there may be a few records in the Archives Center which may
be of interest to certain genealogists, other repositories such as the
National Archives should be consulted first by genealogists.
Does the Archives Center hold any military records and records related to the Armed Forces?
While the Archives Center does not hold individual service records,
it does have several collections relating to military history
including the Princeton Posters Collection, the General William
Hazen Papers, and the Japanese American Documentary Collection. For information about military artifacts contact the Division of Military History and Diplomacy at (202) 633-3910.
Are there any artifacts in the Archives Center?
No. Archives Center collects only documentary and audiovisual
materials.
Does the Archives Center accept donations of archival
material?
Yes, most of the Archives Center's existing collections have been
donated by individuals. However, not everything that is offered is
accepted. Interested persons should contact the Archives Center when
considering making donations.
