Welcome to the final post of our six-part series, “Key Records and Repositories,” where we’ve journeyed through the multifaceted world of genealogical research in the Southwestern United States. This concluding article highlights an often-overlooked treasure trove for genealogists: University and Private Collections. Venturing beyond the usual archives and public records, we uncover the hidden gems and specialized resources nestled within academic institutions, private holdings, and dedicated organizations. This guide aims to arm you with knowledge and strategies to delve into these rich repositories, ensuring your family history research is as comprehensive and rewarding as possible. These principles can be applied to any research area of interest. Be sure to add findings to your locality guide.

The Hidden Treasures in University Archives and How to Access Them

University archives are legit gold mines for genealogists, offering a wealth of unique and underutilized resources. From historical manuscripts, letters, and diaries to photographs and oral histories, these collections can provide unique insights into your ancestors’ lives and the times they lived in. Gaining access to these archives often starts with a simple online search of the university’s library and archives section, followed by a direct inquiry to the archivist. Many institutions also provide digital collections accessible from anywhere, making preliminary research possible from the comfort of your home. When planning a visit, always contact the archive in advance to understand access policies, hours, and any potential restrictions. Remember, archivists are there to help, and building a rapport can significantly enhance your research experience.

For example, the J. Willard Marriott Library at the University of Utah provides access to its special collections in the George S. Eccles Reading Room, open to researchers by appointment only. Details about open days, times, and collections can be found on their special collections page. If you scroll down the page, a link to three short video tutorials will demonstrate how to utilize their library catalog, navigate the Archives West Manuscripts and Photo collections, and search their digital library. In under 7 minutes and 30 seconds, you will know how to access all three. After watching these videos, pick a university near you and explore your research options.

Private Collections: What They Are and How They Can Aid in Genealogical Research

Private collections, ranging from personal family archives to collections amassed by local historians, can be invaluable for genealogical research. These collections often contain unique documents, photographs, and artifacts that you won’t find in public repositories, offering fresh perspectives and previously unknown details about your ancestors. Accessing these resources requires a bit of detective work, starting with local historical and genealogical societies, which often have lists of private collectors willing to share their materials. Networking within these communities can also open doors to private collections. When approaching private collectors, respect and discretion are paramount, as you are dealing with personal and sometimes sensitive materials.

For example, imagine inheriting a vast collection of family photos, business ledgers, or a tool collection going back 100, 150, or even 200 years. You decide to preserve the items and make your collection available to other descendants for private viewing. You would then contact a local university, museum, or historical society, allowing them to offer access to interested parties. By expressing interest, the party is then provided with the details of your collection and contact information. The descendant discovers previously unknown details about their ancestor that answer questions or provide clues for further research.

 Collaborating with Historical and Genealogical Societies

Historical and genealogical societies play a crucial role in preserving the past and making it accessible to researchers. Collaboration with these organizations can significantly enhance your genealogical research, offering access to exclusive databases, private collections, and local expertise. Many societies also conduct workshops, lectures, and tours that can provide deeper insights into the regions or communities your ancestors were part of. Engaging with society members can lead to fruitful exchanges of information and tips. Membership often comes with additional benefits, such as access to restricted areas of their libraries or early notice of special events. Don’t overlook the power of contributing your own findings to these societies; it’s a wonderful way to give back and ensure the preservation of history for future generations.

A membership to the California Genealogical Society offers access to their Special Interest Groups (SIG). SIGs meet quarterly or monthly to offer support for specific geographical and topical interests, for example, Central and Eastern European research, Irish Ancestry, or Family Tree Maker genealogy software. Participation leads to networking opportunities and the ability to share research findings.

Specialized Libraries and Their Collections: A Focused Guide

Specialized libraries, such as those focusing on specific ethnicities, religions, or occupations, offer targeted resources that can be critical for genealogical research. These libraries often house rare books, periodicals, and archives that provide context and depth to your family’s story. To make the most of these specialized collections, start by identifying libraries that align with your research interests. Reach out to librarians with specific inquiries or requests for guidance; their expertise can save you time and lead you to resources you might not have found on your own. Online catalogs and digital collections can also provide preliminary access, allowing you to scope out potential resources before visiting in person. Remember, each library has its own rules and systems, so take the time to understand how best to navigate and utilize their collections to your advantage.

The FamilySearch Wiki will get you started with links to your specific Southwestern state of interest:

• Arizona Societies
• California Societies
• Colorado Societies
• Nevada Societies
• New Mexico Societies
• Utah Societies

 

The Family History Guide (thefhguide.com) is another excellent state resource guide for archives and libraries related to genealogy. Access is free and their search by county feature at the bottom of each state page links to specific county collections at other websites.

• Arizona Archives and Libraries
• California Archives and Libraries: featuring YouTube tutorials for the Sutro Library and Los Angeles Public Library
• Colorado Archives and Libraries
• Nevada Archives and Libraries
• New Mexico Archives and Libraries
• Utah Archives and Libraries: featuring a YouTube tutorial for the Utah State Archives

 

Also, see “Part 1: Understanding Federal, State, and Local Records” for links to federal and state repositories.

Ideas for Case Studies

Now that you know how to access university and private collections, let’s look at a few hypothetical applications that could be used in genealogy research.

Case Study 1: Tracing Native American Heritage in Arizona

• Background: An individual’s pursuit to explore their Native American heritage and connections to the Navajo Nation in Arizona.
• University Special Collection Utilized: The Labriola National American Indian Data Center at Arizona State University.
• Research Challenges: Limited documented history due to oral traditions and the scarcity of written records within the community. Navigating sensitive cultural materials and protocols.
• Strategies Implemented:
  • Collaborating with tribal historians and elders to respect oral histories and cultural knowledge.
  • Examining federal and tribal records, such as census data, land allotments, and Indian School rosters.
  • Utilizing the university’s digital archives for access to photographs, audiovisual materials, and interviews with tribal members.
• Breakthroughs:
  • Discovery of a series of interviews with tribal elders that provided insight into clan relationships, kinship practices, and historical events impacting the family.
  • Unearthing government documents that shed light on the family’s movement and land holdings post-Long Walk of the Navajo.
• Outcome: A documented lineage connecting the family to known Navajo leaders and a deeper understanding of the ancestral impact on the individual’s identity. This led to a personal and community enriching project documenting the stories and histories for future generations, as well as a heightened involvement in tribal affairs.

 

This hypothetical case study serves as a powerful example of how university special collections can bridge the gap between public records and the rich oral histories that characterize many Native American communities, particularly within the context of the Southwestern United States. It illustrates the careful blend of respect for tradition and modern research methods necessary to undertake such a deeply personal and culturally significant genealogical journey.

Case Study 2: Discovering Pioneer Roots in the Rockies

• Background: An individual’s quest to trace their Colorado pioneer ancestry.
• University Special Collection Utilized: The University of Colorado Boulder’s Western Historical Collection.
• Research Challenges: Limited records available from the mid-19th century.
• Strategies Implemented: Utilizing land grants, mining deeds, and personal correspondence housed in the collection.
• Breakthroughs: Finding a personal diary detailing daily life and kin connections.
• Outcome: A comprehensive family tree dating back to the 1840s and a published family history.

Case Study 3: Connecting Cultures in California

• Background: A Mexican-American family’s endeavor to link their heritage across borders.
• University Special Collection Utilized: The California Ethnic and Multicultural Archives at UC Santa Barbara.
• Research Challenges: Overcoming language barriers and cross-border record discrepancies.
• Strategies Implemented: Engaging with bilingual archival materials, immigration records, and community publications.
• Breakthroughs: Uncovering a cache of letters between family members across the U.S.-Mexico border.
• Outcome: A reconstructed migratory and family narrative, shedding light on bicultural experiences.

Case Study 4: Piecing Together a Mormon Pioneer Legacy

• Background: Exploring the deep Mormon roots of a family in Utah.
• University Special Collection Utilized: The L. Tom Perry Special Collections at Brigham Young University.
• Research Challenges: Tracing lineage through common surnames and incomplete church records.
• Strategies Implemented: Delving into pioneer diaries, church records, and historical registers.
• Breakthroughs: Locating a previously unknown journal of an ancestor detailing the journey west.
• Outcome: Filling in gaps in the family’s genealogical record and contributions to a local historical society.

Case Study 5: The Jewish Tapestry of New Mexico

• Background: A family’s exploration of their Sephardic Jewish ancestry in the American Southwest.
• University Special Collection Utilized: The Sephardic Heritage Collection at the University of New Mexico.
• Research Challenges: Scattered records and limited official documentation.
• Strategies Implemented: Sifting through community records, oral histories, and immigration documents.
• Breakthroughs: Identification of a connection to a prominent figure within the Sephardic community.
• Outcome: Establishment of a family’s lineage with historical Sephardic settlers, enhancement of the cultural narrative.

Case Study 6: Mining Ancestral Riches in Nevada

• Background: The search for the story of a family’s origins in the Nevada mining boom.
• University Special Collection Utilized: The Special Collections and Archives at the University of Nevada, Reno.
• Research Challenges: Fragmented records due to transient mining populations and town abandonments.
• Strategies Implemented: Using mining company records, employment logs, and city directories.
• Breakthroughs: Finding employment records and a mine accident report leading to additional personal records.
• Outcome: Reconstruction of the ancestor’s life and experiences during the Nevada mining era and its impact on the family legacy.

 

Each case study would delve into the specific resources found within these special collections, highlighting the research journey, the obstacles faced, and the eventual revelations that contribute to the family’s understanding of their ancestry. This outline serves as a blueprint for compelling narratives that demonstrate the value of university special collections in genealogical research.

Tips For Success in Researching University and Private Collections

Navigating university and private archives for genealogical research can be both exciting and daunting. Here are some expert tips to help you make the most out of your exploration into these rich repositories:

1. Do Your Homework Beforehand

• Research Online Catalogs and Finding Aids: Many university archives and private collections have online catalogs or finding aids that provide a summary of their holdings. Review these resources to identify collections that may be relevant to your research before you visit.
• Understand the Scope and Limitations: Each archive has its own focus and strengths. Understanding what a specific archive offers can save you time and direct your research efforts more efficiently.

2. Develop a Research Plan

• Set Clear Objectives: Know what you’re looking for before you dive in. Having clear research questions can help you stay focused and make the most of your time in the archives.
• Prioritize Collections: Based on your preliminary research, prioritize the collections that are most likely to contain relevant information. This approach helps you allocate your time effectively, especially if your time in the archive is limited.

3. Communicate Effectively with Archivists

• Reach Out in Advance: Contact the archive before your visit. Provide a brief overview of your research interests and ask for advice on which collections might be most relevant.
• Be Specific but Flexible: While it’s important to communicate your research needs clearly, also be open to suggestions from the archivist. They may direct you to resources you hadn’t considered.

4. Make the Most of Your Visit

• Plan Your Time Wisely: Archives often have limited hours, and reviewing collections can take longer than expected. Plan your visit to maximize the available research time.
• Take Detailed Notes: Record not only the information you find but also where you found it, including the collection name, box number, and folder number. This detail is crucial for citing your sources and for future reference.
• Respect Handling Guidelines: Historical documents can be fragile. Always follow the archive’s guidelines for handling materials to ensure their preservation.

5. Leverage Digital Technologies

• Use a Camera or Smartphone: With permission, take photographs of documents to review later. This approach can save time and allows for a closer examination of the material afterward.
• Organize Digitally: Utilize digital tools and apps to organize the information and images you collect. Efficient organization is key to managing the vast amount of data that genealogical research can accumulate.

6. Network and Collaborate

• Engage with Other Researchers: Don’t underestimate the value of connecting with other genealogists, historians, or members of genealogical societies. They can offer insights, suggest resources, and share strategies.
• Contribute Your Findings: If you uncover information that might benefit others, consider sharing your discoveries with the archive or relevant societies. Contributing to the community can help preserve and expand the resources available for genealogical research.

7. Be Persistent and Patient

• Expect Ups and Downs: Not every visit will yield groundbreaking results. Genealogical research is often a slow process, requiring patience and perseverance.
• Follow Up on Leads: If you uncover references to other collections or archives, follow up on these leads. Each piece of information can be a stepping stone to further discoveries.

 

By employing these strategies, you’ll enhance your ability to uncover valuable insights into your ancestry through university and private archival research. Remember, each discovery adds a piece to the puzzle of your family’s history.

Conclusion

In wrapping up our series, it’s clear that the path to uncovering your family history is both vast and varied. By exploring university and private collections, collaborating with societies, and leveraging specialized libraries, you open up new avenues of discovery that can enrich your genealogical journey. Remember, each piece of information uncovered is a step closer to piecing together the mosaic of your family’s past. Happy researching!

Complete Series:

Part 1 – Understanding Federal, State, and Local records

Part 2 – Church and Cemetery Records Unique to the Southwest

Part 3 – Land and Property records, including Spanish Land Grants

Part 4 – Mining and Agriculture Records

Part 5 – Native American and Spanish Language Resources

Part 6 -Using University and Private Collections for Genealogical Research