Understanding Alabama State Archives: Preserving Our History

Introduction

Alabama’s history is rich and diverse, encompassing a tapestry of cultures, events, and stories that have shaped the state. Preserving this heritage is vital for future generations, and the Alabama Department of Archives and History (ADAH) plays a pivotal role in this endeavor. Established in 1901, the ADAH is the nation’s first state-funded historical agency, dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing Alabama’s history.

The Role of the Alabama Department of Archives and History

The ADAH serves as the principal repository for a vast array of materials, including:

  • Official government records
  • Private sector documents
  • Photographs
  • Recordings

    • These resources are invaluable for researchers, educators, and the general public seeking to understand Alabama’s past. The ADAH also offers educational programs and training for educators, government officials, students, researchers, and history enthusiasts.

    Museum of Alabama

    Located within the ADAH, the Museum of Alabama provides an immersive learning environment for visitors of all ages. The museum features exhibits that showcase the state’s history, from prehistoric times to the present. Admission is free, making it accessible to everyone interested in exploring Alabama’s heritage.

    Museum Details:

  • Address: 624 Washington Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36130
  • Hours: Monday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Contact: 334-242-4435

    • Research Services

    The ADAH offers a range of research services to assist individuals in their historical inquiries:

  • Research Consultations: Personalized guidance for your historical research needs.
  • Research Requests: Reference archivists can conduct research on your behalf for a fee.
  • Public Records Requests: Citizens can request copies of public records through the Secretary of State’s office.

    • Research Room Details:

  • Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Contact: 334-242-4435

    • Public Records Request:

  • Form: Available on the Secretary of State’s website
  • Contact: public.records@sos.alabama.gov

    • Records and Information Management

    The ADAH collaborates with state and local agencies on records and information management, focusing on the preservation of permanent records. They conduct free onsite visits for assistance and training, ensuring that records are properly maintained and accessible.

    Contact for Records Management:

  • Becky Hebert: 334-353-5039, becky.hebert@archives.alabama.gov

    • Public Records Laws in Alabama

    Alabama’s public records laws have evolved to enhance transparency and accountability:

  • Response Deadlines: As of October 1, 2024, public records officers must acknowledge receipt of simple requests within 10 days and provide a substantive response within an additional 15 business days. This reform aims to improve the state’s previously weak open records statute by introducing clear response deadlines.
  • Executive Order: In January 2023, Governor Kay Ivey issued an executive order mandating new procedures for handling public records requests by executive-branch agencies. The order requires agencies to set up request portals, respond within 15 days for simple requests or 45 days for complex ones, and cap fees at $20 per hour for preparation and 50 cents per paper page.

    • How to Access the Archives

    Accessing the ADAH’s resources is straightforward:

  • Visit the Museum: Explore exhibits that showcase Alabama’s history.
  • Plan a Research Visit: Utilize the Research Room for in-depth studies.
  • Submit a Research Request: For specific historical or genealogical information, submit a request form.
  • Submit a Public-Records Request: Obtain copies of public records through the Secretary of State’s office.

    • Contact Information:

  • Address: 624 Washington Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36130
  • Phone: 334-242-4435
  • Website: Alabama Department of Archives and History

    • Conclusion

    The Alabama Department of Archives and History is dedicated to preserving the state’s rich heritage and making it accessible to all. Whether you’re a researcher, educator, or history enthusiast, the ADAH offers invaluable resources to explore and understand Alabama’s past.

    Key Facts

  • Established: 1901
  • Location: 624 Washington Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36130
  • Museum Hours: Monday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Research Room Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Public Records Response Deadlines: Acknowledge within 10 days; substantive response within 15 business days (effective October 1, 2024)

    • Sources

  • Alabama Department of Archives and History, 2025/https://archives.alabama.gov/
  • Alabama Secretary of State, 2025/https://www.sos.alabama.gov/public-records-request
  • Associated Press, 2024/https://apnews.com/article/7047c180a0c5335f04ad88afae89ed82
  • Associated Press, 2024/https://apnews.com/article/84c53e8fa332ceb3f7b0cb99736e3453
  • Associated Press, 2023/https://apnews.com/article/24ae13d57f5e797d6124b97c906c998d

    • Tags

  • Alabama State Archives
  • Public Records
  • Historical Preservation
  • Museum of Alabama
  • Research Services
  • Records Management
  • Public Records Laws

    • Subcategory

    Public Records

    Readability Level

    8th Grade

    Sources

  • Alabama Department of Archives and History, 2025/https://archives.alabama.gov/
  • Alabama Secretary of State, 2025/https://www.sos.alabama.gov/public-records-request
  • Associated Press, 2024/https://apnews.com/article/7047c180a0c5335f04ad88afae89ed82
  • Associated Press, 2024/https://apnews.com/article/84c53e8fa332ceb3f7b0cb99736e3453
  • Associated Press, 2023/https://apnews.com/article/24ae13d57f5e797d6124b97c906c998d