National Archives At New York City

The National Archives is the nation's record keeper.  

 We preserve and provide access to the records of the Federal government.  Our collection includes over 12 billion pages of text, billions of digital files, 20 million photographs, 9 millions maps, drawings, charts, 365,000 reels of film, and 110,000 videotapes.  

 Among our records are documents of the founding of our country--including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.  We also maintain records that serve as the building blocks to family history research--Census, Passenger Arrival and Naturalization documents.

The National Archives at New York City maintains the permanently valuable records of Federal agencies in New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.  These records have continuing value for assisting in the necessary processes of government, for protecting public and private rights, and for providing scholars, students, and the general public with basic historical sources.

The National Archives at New York City also has subscriptions to resources such as Ancestry, Fold3, and HeritageQuest.  In addition, we have many microfilmed records of high research value available for use.

The National Archives at New York City shares the stories of our records through exhibits, workshops, field trips, and other public programs.  

Mission

The National Archives and Records Administration serves American democracy by safeguarding and preserving the records of our Government, ensuring that the people can discover, use, and learn from this documentary heritage. We ensure continuing access to the essential documentation of the rights of American citizens and the actions of their government. We support democracy, promote civic education, and facilitate historical understanding of our national experience.

Vision

As the nation’s record keeper, it is our vision that all Americans will understand the vital role records play in a democracy, and their own personal stake in the National Archives. Our holdings and diverse programs will be available to more people than ever before through modern technology and dynamic partnerships.  The stories of our nation and our people are told in the records and artifacts cared for in NARA facilities around the country. We want all Americans to be inspired to explore the records of their country.