Family History and Genealogy

Although family history and genealogy is not a specific collection within the Institute, such research does constitute one of the primary uses of its collections, whether manuscripts, publications, photographs or microforms. With that in mind, this section outlines the broad collecting policies, regardless of format, for family history and genealogical research. Collection development will focus on selective acquisition of general reference materials, genealogical books, indexes, periodicals, and primary or first entry records. Collecting in this area is designed to support the university's broad approach to North Dakota history.

Collecting Areas

Reference books General reference works must have application to conducting research on some aspect of North Dakota history or North Dakota records. All published indexes to North Dakota archival records and publications will be acquired.

Genealogical books Collect books related to all aspects of genealogy in North Dakota. This also includes works that cover the migration patterns of the various ethnic groups that settled the state. Published and self-published compiled family histories and genealogies must directly relate to North Dakota. Of particular interest are family histories that document the pioneer settlement era. Computer genealogical data, whether in paper or digital format, is not collected. Financial resources limit the purchase of individual family histories and genealogies. Donated copies must meet the above criteria.

Primary records Acquire primary or first entry records of genealogical value relating to Dakota Territory and North Dakota. This includes censuses, land records, military service and veteran records, naturalizations, and court records. Naturalization records are limited to the southeastern counties in North Dakota and the court records to Cass County. Primary records usually are obtained in microfilm format from the holding repository.

Manuscripts & archival records Such records are actively solicited, provided they relate to North Dakota. Of particular interest are the papers and records of local historians and genealogists who have compiled data for a particular geographic area in the state.

Serials Serials, journals and newsletters must directly relate to North Dakota or be published in the state. No attempt is made to collect the newsletters of county, city and local historical societies in North Dakota, but such publications are welcome if provided without cost.

Germans from Russia In-depth collecting for this ethnic group is done by the Germans from Russia Heritage Collection of the NDSU Libraries and material is normally not duplicated within the Institute's collection. Exceptions are made for general works that relate broadly to North Dakota.