Florida’s State Archives play a pivotal role in preserving the state’s rich history, offering a window into its diverse heritage and evolution. Managed by the Division of Library and Information Services under the Florida Department of State, the Archives collect, preserve, and provide access to historically significant records, private manuscripts, local government records, photographs, and other materials that complement official state records. (dos.fl.gov)
Mission and Purpose
The State Archives of Florida is dedicated to:
- Collecting historically significant records from state and local governments, private manuscripts, and photographs.
- Preserving these materials to ensure their longevity for future generations.
- Providing Access to researchers, educators, and the public, facilitating a deeper understanding of Florida’s history.
- State Government Records: Documenting the activities of Florida’s territorial and state government from 1821 to the present.
- Local Government Records: Reflecting the administrative functions of local entities across Florida.
- Private Manuscript Collections: Materials from private citizens, organizations, and businesses that provide personal perspectives on Florida’s history.
- Florida Photographic Collection: Over one million still images and thousands of motion picture films and tapes capturing Florida’s people, places, and events from the mid-19th century to the present.
- Genealogical Collection: Resources aiding in family history research, including books and other materials. (dos.fl.gov)
- Photographs: Over 200,000 digitized images from the Florida Photographic Collection.
- Historical Records: More than 300,000 records from select collections housed at the State Library and Archives of Florida.
- Maps: Hundreds of maps of Florida dating from the 16th to the 20th century.
- Audio and Video: Thousands of audio recordings and hundreds of videos depicting Florida’s history. (floridamemory.com)
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This mission is vital for maintaining a comprehensive record of Florida’s past, offering insights into its cultural, economic, military, religious, and social development. (dos.fl.gov)
Key Collections
The Archives’ holdings encompass several major collecting areas:
Accessing the Archives
The State Archives is located in the R.A. Gray Building in Tallahassee:
Address: 500 South Bronough Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0250
Phone: 850.245.6700 (dos.fl.gov)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Visitors can explore the Archives’ collections, conduct research, and participate in various programs and events. For those unable to visit in person, the Archives offers remote research services and access to digitized materials through the Florida Memory website. (fldoswebuat-sandbox.azurewebsites.net)
Florida Memory Program
An extension of the State Archives, the Florida Memory Program provides free online access to select archival resources. This initiative includes:
Preservation and Public Access
The Archives adhere to strict preservation principles to maintain the integrity of historical records. This includes proper storage, climate control, and restricted access to sensitive materials. Public access is facilitated through a reference room, online catalogs, and digitized collections, ensuring that Florida’s history remains accessible to all. (dos.fl.gov)
Contact Information
For more information or assistance, contact the State Archives at:
Phone: 850.245.6719
Email: email protected] ([floridamemory.com)
The State Archives of Florida serves as a vital resource for understanding the state’s past, offering invaluable materials for research, education, and personal interest. By preserving and providing access to these records, the Archives ensure that Florida’s history remains a living, accessible part of its present and future.