Library Patron
We're in the process of updating our website! Learn more about what that means and how you can help create history..
Family History
Discover Your Family History
The Wisconsin Historical Society genealogy team empowers people to explore and preserve their family stories. Whether you’re just getting started or digging deeper into your ancestry, we have the tools, resources, and expertise to support your journey.
-
Rich Collections
The Wisconsin Historical Society is one of the top institutions for genealogy research in the United States. Examples of nearly every type of genealogical resource can be found - from vital records, to military records, to passenger lists, to census records. Find out more about our Family History Collections.
-
Unique Programs
Held throughout the year, our expert-led programs are geared to all levels of experience and cover a variety of genealogy topics. View our upcoming events.
-
Expert Help
Library & Archives staff are available to guide you through the Society's extensive collections and resources.
Search Our Collections
Library & Archives Catalog
Search the Society's library and archival materials in the University of Wisconsin-Madison's online catalog.
Archival Finding Aids
Finding aids (registers) describe archival resources held by 24 repositories throughout Wisconsin. These provide access to uncover correspondence, diaries, photographs and more.
Digital Collections
Our digital collections provide easy access to hundreds of thousands of digital files, including photographs, videos, documents, and other historical materials. Content is added on an ongoing basis.
Search Indexes
Search over 3,000,000 records including: pre-1907 birth, death and marriage record indexes; newspaper clippings; and photographs and other visual materials.
Essential Tools
for Family History Research
Level up your family history research with our guides, handouts, and other helpful and easy-to-use tools.
View Resources Go To Collection OverviewHow We Can Help
We are committed to connecting you to the information and materials you need. We offer a range of services to assist you with your family history research.
Are you bringing your genealogy group or club to Madison for a day of family history research? Contact Ask Library to schedule a tour of the Library & Archives in our beautiful building on the UW-Madison campus, including an overview of the genealogy collections we have and the amenities available for your research.
If you are looking for a speaker, our expert genealogy staff gives talks on genealogy topics for genealogy societies, libraries, and other organizations. Presentations can be either in-person or virtual, though speaker fees may apply depending on travel costs. You can request a presentation through the Society's Speakers Bureau.
The Library and Archives offer services to enhance your family history research experience, including:
- Reference assistance from expert staff
- In-person
- Phone
- Scanning services
- Library cards for Wisconsin residents
- InterLibrary Loan services
- Technology access
- Public computers
- WiFi access
- Printers
- Book scanners
- Microfilm readers
The Area Research Center network makes it possible for researchers to access and view archival collections housed in different locations across Wisconsin.
- There are 14 Area Research Centers (ARCs) in Wisconsin, located at UW campus libraries throughout the state and at the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center. Each one serves a specific geographic region.
- Records created in and focused on the region served by a particular ARC are housed permanently at the appropriate Center.
- You can access most collections from across the state and request to have them sent to your region from anywhere in the network.
- The network is a partnership between the Wisconsin Historical Society and the University of Wisconsin (UW) System.
2027
Wisconsin Genealogy Day
Join us for the second annual Wisconsin Genealogy Day, a free virtual program where you will learn from expert speakers about how to research your Wisconsin and Midwestern ancestors.
This program is sponsored by the Wisconsin Historical Society and the Wisconsin State Genealogical Society.
Sat Feb 20 | 9 AM - 3:30 PM CT
Discover Upcoming Genealogy Events
Stay up to date with genealogy programs, educational webinars, and special events, led by professional speakers and Society staff.
Explore All Events
Get the Genealogy Gazette
Your free family history newsletter is a click away! Each month you'll receive genealogy tips, collection highlights, program updates, and more.
Sign UpThe Wisconsin Family History Book Award
The Wisconsin Historical Society and the Wisconsin State Genealogical Society invite nominations of published genealogies detailing the history of Wisconsin families for the Wisconsin Family History Book Award.
"Thank you so much for your hard work. It answers so many questions that we’ve had over the years!"
Visit Our
Library & Archives
Perhaps the best way to begin exploring our collections is by visiting us in person. In our reading rooms, you’ll find free and unparalleled access to our collections, helpful staff and amenities, and perhaps, your very own story.
Plan Your Visit HoursGo to top
