State Archives Collecting Areas
We are the central repository for the archives of state government. In the broadest sense, our purpose is to preserve and make available to the public the permanent historical public and private records of Florida in our custody. These records are among the most important historical and cultural resources belonging to the people of Florida.
Florida’s historical records:
- Offer insight into our diverse heritage and history.
- Provide government officials the perspective they need to manage responsibly.
- Supply valuable information for historians, genealogists, teachers and students from across the state and beyond.
The State Archives of Florida has five major collecting areas:
- State government records
- Local government records
- Private manuscript collections
- The Florida Photographic Collection
- Genealogical collection
For a brief overview and introduction to some of the records you may find in these collecting areas, please explore the introductions on their webpages.
These are introductions only and do not provide comprehensive information about all the series and collections within these collecting areas.
Have questions, or need help researching a topic or looking for a specific record? Contact the State Archives reference staff at 850.245.6719 or archives@dos.myflorida.com.
