A website from the Massachusetts Historical Society; founded 1791.
Links

Genealogy/Family History

Historic Sites and Homes

 Local History

Military Records

 Websites Related to the Adams family





Genealogy/Family History


New England Historic Genealogical Society
Enlarge For published genealogies and research advice, one of the best resources is the New England Historic Genealogical Society (NEHGS), the center for family and local historical research in New England. The NEHGS maintains a mail loan library and can provide a list of researchers for hire for anyone unable to visit the Boston area to use the library resources. Visit the NEHGS website for more information.

   New England Historic Genealogical Society
   101 Newbury Street
   Boston, MA 02116
   (617) 536-5740

The Registry of Vital Records and Statistics
The Registry of Vital Records and Statistics, a division of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, holds vital records (official birth, death and marriage records) for Massachusetts, most post-1840. Researchers can find information about Massachusetts vital records, including instructions for ordering copies, online at the MASS.GOV website.

The Massachusetts State Archives
The Massachusetts State Archives holds important materials for genealogical research including passenger lists, census schedules, and military records. Additional information is available on the Archives website.

   Massachusetts State Archives
   220 Morrissey Boulevard
   Boston, MA 02125
   (617) 727-2816

The National Archives and Records Administration
The National Archives and Records Administration maintains a Northeast Regional Branch in Waltham, Mass. This facility holds many items of importance to genealogical research including federal census records, passenger arrival lists, and Revolutionary War military service records.

   Frederick C. Murphy Federal Center
   380 Trapelo Road
   Waltham, MA 02452-6399
   (781) 647-8104

Local Public Libraries
In Massachusetts, most local history materials are held at the local level. Many public libraries have rich local history collections and are important resources for researchers engaged in town and family history. The Massachusetts Library & Information Network maintains an online directory of Massachusetts public libraries. Click here to visit the online directory.