The Arkansas State Archives preserves and provides access to the state’s historical records through various services. Here’s a brief overview :
- Extensive collections of documents, photographs, and government records
- Free access to researchers and history enthusiasts
- Digital resources including digitized newspapers and online collections
- Educational programs and volunteer opportunities
- Specialized services like the Curtis H. Sykes Memorial Grant Program
The Arkansas State Archives, established in 1905, serves as the official repository for the state’s historical records and documents. Located in Little Rock, with regional archives in Washington and Powhatan, this institution plays a crucial role in preserving Arkansas’s rich history. Its mission is to collect, preserve, and provide access to valuable historical materials while encouraging research and education.
Discover Arkansas history through extensive collections
The Arkansas State Archives houses the state’s largest collection of historical resources, including :
- Documents and publications
- Photographs and maps
- Government records
Researchers and history enthusiasts can access these extensive collections free of charge during operating hours, Monday to Friday from 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 4pm, as well as on the first and third Saturdays of each month. Despite facing challenges with storage space and preservation throughout its history, the archives have significantly expanded their services and collections since the 1960s. Since moving to its current location in 1979, the institution has received over 600,000 patron visits, highlighting its importance as a hub for historical research.
Explore digital resources and online access
The Arkansas State Archives has embraced the digital age by providing online access to a wealth of historical information. As part of the National Digital Newspaper Program, the archives have digitized numerous historic Arkansas newspapers, making them easily accessible to researchers worldwide. Through partnerships with organizations like the Library of Congress for the Chronicling America project, the archives continue to expand their digital offerings.
Researchers can explore a wide range of digitized collections, including :
- U.S. Census records
- Civil War materials
- Genealogical resources
For those conducting on-site research, the archives provide microfilm resources and reading equipment to facilitate access to historical documents and records.
Engage with Arkansas history through programs and services
The Arkansas State Archives offers various programs and services to promote engagement with the state’s history. These include educational events, volunteer opportunities, and internships. The Curtis H. Sykes Memorial Grant Program supports black history projects, while the Black History Commission of Arkansas has overseen the archives since 1991. In 2016, the institution was transferred from the Department of Parks and Tourism to the Department of Arkansas Heritage, further solidifying its role in preserving the state’s cultural legacy. Under the leadership of current director David Ware, the Arkansas State Archives continues to serve as an invaluable resource for those seeking to explore and understand Arkansas’s rich historical tapestry.
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