State Archives
The State Archives is home to more than 10 million letters, photographs, and important state documents that form a permanent, tangible record of Rhode Island’s rich history. Our holdings date back to 1638. We welcome the public to engage with our collections by visiting us or exploring our holdings online. Learn more in our 2019 Annual Report.
Discover your Family Story
Research and request vital records, census, and military records to build your family tree.
Discover RI’s Story
Access manuscripts, photographs, and historic documents that tell the story of Rhode Islanders.
Now on View
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Census Female side A, 1905 -
Census Male side A, 1905 -
Rhode Island State Census, 1915
Count Me In! Come view census materials from the 1700s to the present.
Exhibitions are free and open to the public.
Save the State Archives
Our documents are at risk. Watch our video to see Secretary Gorbea's vision for a new State Archives and History Center.
Field Trips to the State Archives
Introduce your students to primary sources and see some of our state’s most important documents.
Events and
Programs
View our offering of free events to explore first hand our collections and the stories they tell.
Managing Gov Records
Review resources to help State Agencies care for government records.
Visit the State Archives
VISIT US
Mon - Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Free and open to the public
337 Westminster St., Providence
PARKING: Free, two-hour validated parking at Down City Parking on the corner of Westminster & Snow Streets.