National Archives at Chicago: A Treasure Trove of American History

The National Archives at Chicago is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in exploring the rich history of the United States. As part of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), the National Archives at Chicago serves as a repository for federal records from the Midwest, offering a wealth of historical documents, photographs, and other materials that tell the story of America's past. This article delves into the history, collections, and services provided by the National Archives at Chicago.

The History of the National Archives at Chicago

Established in 1935, the National Archives at Chicago is one of several regional archives under the umbrella of the NARA. Its primary purpose is to store and provide access to records created by federal agencies in the Midwest, including Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Initially located in downtown Chicago, the facility moved to its current location in 1994, a more spacious and climate-controlled building that allows for better preservation and access to the records.

The National Archives at Chicago has been instrumental in facilitating the work of historians, genealogists, educators, and the general public for nearly a century. Its vast collections have provided insight into key moments in American history, from the Great Lakes region's role in the development of the nation to critical legal cases that shaped the course of civil rights in the United States.

Collections at the National Archives at Chicago

The National Archives at Chicago holds millions of documents, photographs, maps, and architectural drawings, which are divided into two primary categories: federal records and donated materials.

Federal Records

Federal records are created by federal agencies and are preserved due to their historical or legal significance. Some notable collections at the National Archives at Chicago include:

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   Bureau of Indian Affairs Records: These records document the interactions between the U.S. government and various Native American tribes in the Midwest, covering topics such as land cessions, education, and health.

   
   


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   Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Records: The CCC was a New Deal program established during the Great Depression to provide employment and training to young men while simultaneously addressing environmental and infrastructure needs. Records related to the CCC include photographs, correspondence, and project reports.

   
   


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   U.S. District Courts Records: These records provide insights into legal disputes and civil rights cases that have shaped the nation's history. For example, the National Archives at Chicago houses records from the famous 1955 Emmett Till murder trial.

   
   


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   Great Lakes Naval Training Center Records: Established in 1911, the Great Lakes Naval Training Center is the U.S. Navy's largest training facility. The National Archives at Chicago holds records that detail the center's history, training activities, and personnel.

   
   

Donated Materials

In addition to federal records, the National Archives at Chicago also houses donated materials, such as personal papers, photographs, and organizational records that relate to the region's history. Examples of donated materials include:

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   The Pullman Company Records: The Pullman Company was a major manufacturer of railroad cars and a significant employer in the Chicago area. The National Archives at Chicago holds extensive records related to the company's operations, labor relations, and the famous Pullman Strike of 1894.

   
   


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   The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) Records: These records document the development of nuclear power and weapons in the United States, with a focus on the Midwest's contributions to these efforts.

   
   


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   The Great Lakes Maritime Collection: This collection includes photographs, maps, and ship plans that detail the history of maritime commerce and navigation on the Great Lakes.

   
   

Services and Access at the National Archives at Chicago

The National Archives at Chicago is committed to making its collections accessible to researchers, educators, and the general public. To this end, the facility provides a range of services and resources to help individuals explore the vast trove of historical materials.

Research Assistance

The experienced staff at the National Archives at Chicago is available to assist researchers in navigating the extensive collections and identifying relevant materials for their projects. They can provide guidance on using finding aids, databases, and other resources to locate specific records or topics of interest.

Public Programs and Workshops

The National Archives at Chicago offers a variety of public programs and workshops throughout the year. These events aim to engage the community and increase awareness of the facility's collections and resources. Programs include lectures, panel discussions, film screenings, and workshops on topics such as genealogy, historical research, and preservation techniques.

Educational Resources

Educators can take advantage of the National Archives at Chicago's resources to enhance their curriculum and inspire students to engage with history. The facility offers a range of educational materials, such as lesson plans, primary source sets, and teaching guides, all designed to support the use of historical documents in the classroom.

Digitization and Online Access

Recognizing the importance of making historical materials widely available, the National Archives at Chicago is actively working to digitize its collections and make them accessible online. Through partnerships with organizations like the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA) and Ancestry.com, the facility is continually expanding its digital offerings, allowing researchers and the general public to explore the collections from anywhere in the world.

Visiting the National Archives at Chicago

The National Archives at Chicago is open to the public, and researchers are encouraged to visit the facility to access its collections in person. The research room, which houses the majority of the facility's materials, operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Researchers must obtain a researcher identification card, which can be done on-site with a valid government-issued photo ID.

For those planning a visit to the National Archives at Chicago, it is essential to review the facility's website for current hours, contact information, and any restrictions or requirements related to COVID-19.

Conclusion

The National Archives at Chicago is a vital resource for anyone seeking to explore and understand the rich history of the United States, particularly the Midwest region. Its extensive collections, knowledgeable staff, and commitment to accessibility make it an invaluable institution for researchers, educators, and the general public alike. By visiting the National Archives at Chicago or accessing its digitized materials online, individuals have the opportunity to engage with the past and contribute to the ongoing conversation about America's history and future.