State Archives

Photo of handwritten document about Divorce Records Entered in Early Connecticut Superior Court Record Books, 1716-1798

About

The State Archives documents the evolution of state public policy and its implementation, the rights and claims of citizens, and the history of Connecticut and its people.

Since 1855 the Connecticut State Library has acquired historical records from the three branches of State government. In 1909, the General Assembly designated the State Library as the official State Archives. The Archives contains more than 50,000 cubic feet and 20 terabytes of records.

Lizette Pelletier is the State Archivist.

Important Historical Dates for State Archives and Public Records  

FAQ

 

Access to the State Archives Collections

Question: How do I get access to the State Archives Collections?

Answer: Access to archival records and other reference services are provided through the History & Genealogy unit at 860-757-6500 or Ask a Librarian.

 

State Agencies or Municipalities

Question: How do I transfer state agency or municipal records to the State Archives?

Answer: State agency staff members should work with their agency’s Records Management Liaison Officer (RMLO) to transfer public records with permanent archival value to the State Archives. Municipal agencies should contact State Archives staff directly.

For guidelines and procedures on transferring records refer to State Archives Policy 01: Transfer of Historical Records to the State Archives or Other Approved Archival Repository and Procedures for the Transfer of Historical Public Records to the State Archives .

 

Individual Donors

Question: How do I donate an item to the Connecticut State Archives?

Answer: Individuals and groups interested in donating items related to Connecticut history to the Connecticut State Archives should contact State Archivist Lizette Pelletier through CT State Archives.

According to IRS rules, the State Library or its staff cannot appraise any materials for monetary value nor can staff recommend specific appraisers. Potential donors can find a list of certified appraisers on from either the American Society of Appraisers or the Appraisers Association of America.

State Archives Resources

Links to Connecticut State Archives collection resources including descriptive guides (finding aids), special subject guides, and databases.

CT SHRAB is committed to expanding preservation, access, and discovery of Connecticut’s historical record.

State Archives policies and procedures concerning records transfers, organizational and individual donations, accessing archival material, and procedures for accessing records with limited or restricted access.

Event, donation, and other news from the Connecticut State Archives.