Research Options
- Visit the MHS Library
- Research ServicesFee-based research services offered by MHS Library staff.
- Your Local LibraryMany books listed in the Secondary Sources can be checked out at other libraries.
- Local Historical SocietiesA list of MN county and town historical societies, with contact info and web links
- Ancestry.comA subscription genealogy website. Visit the MHS Library to use our subscription.
- FamilySearchA free family history site that allows you to search records from around the world.
Related Research Guides & Webpages
- Adoption ResearchA guide listing the resources available at the MNHS library.
- Military Service Records ResearchA guide listing the resources available at the MNHS library.
- Vital Records: Birth, Death, & MarriageA guide listing the resources available at the MNHS library.
- Naturalization RecordsA guide on researching nationalizations at MNHS.
- State InstitutionsA guide listing the resources available at the MNHS library.
- Family History Resources and ResearchMNHS Online Genealogy Guide, based on the print book A Guide to Family History Resources at the Minnesota Historical Society.
Family History Research
Family history can be a very rewarding and educational activity. The Minnesota Historical Society has a variety of resources to help you learn about your family's history. If you are just starting out on your family research it is best to begin in a systematic way. Your research will be more productive and generally more successful if you do.
Family History Research in 8 Easy Steps
- Step 1: Start with what you know
- Step 2: Prepare for your visit to the library.
- Step 3: Determine the kind of record you need.
- Step 4: Record your results.
- Step 5: Decide what you want to find out next.
- Step 6: What you can do at home.
- Step 7: Read about the areas in which your ancestors lived.
- Step 8: Read about doing family research. Join a society. Share your research.
MHS Reference Staff
Gale Family Library
MN Historical Society Library
345 West Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55102
Contact Us:
By Phone (651-259-3300)
or
By Email
Library Hours
Tuesday: 9am to 8pm
Wed. to Sat.: 9am to 4pm
Sunday: Closed
Monday: Closed
Holiday Hours
Guide Author
Brigid Shields
Reference Associate
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