Official Government Website

Idaho State Archives

Idaho State Archives Exterior

The Idaho State Archives (ISA) and Research Center provide public access to records of fiscal, administrative, legal, cultural and long-term research value to the citizens and government of Idaho. ISA preserves a large and unique collection of materials that relate to the history of Idaho and the West, including photographs, books, maps, manuscripts, oral histories, and government records.

How to schedule appointments:

  • Advanced appointments are encouraged when inquiries require physical access to archival records in the Lincoln Reading Room.
  • Appointments are generally scheduled 48 hours in advance during regularly scheduled hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11 am-4 pm.
  • Researchers should email their research questions to public.archives@ishs.idaho.gov.

Guidelines for Researchers

Idaho State Archives invites patrons to conduct their research on site. Collections may be fragile, highly specialized and unique; special handling and access provisions are necessary.

Patrons are asked to help preserve ISA’s historic items by following these basic rules:

  • BRING flash drive, phone, wallet (to pay for copies), citations, or collection information (if applicable).
  • CHECK personal belongings such as coats, briefcases, packages, and purses in the complimentary lockers provided at the Research Center entry.
  • WRITE only with pencils and laptop computers.
  • ASK staff for assistance if you have any questions or concerns regarding the handling of materials.
  • NO food or drink in the Research Center.

HOURS

Tuesday-Saturday | 11 am-4 pm

Closed on state holidays.

LOCATION

2205 Old Penitentiary Road
Boise, ID 83712

CONTACT US

Archival holdings
Researchers can access information on donated collections held at the Idaho State Archives. Not all collections are available and records are continuously updated. Researchers are encouraged to make an appointment to access these materials. 

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Research library
The Idaho State Archives research library contains a wealth of information about Idaho and the West. Search the catalog to locate books, maps, state publications, oral history interviews, microfilm, and more. These materials do not require an appointment to access.

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Newspapers
The Idaho Digital Newspaper Project makes more than 80 historic newspapers from across the Gem State available to anyone with an internet connection. Researchers can access articles spanning from 1863 to 1925.

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The Idaho State Historical Society preserves and provides access to a wide number of resources and materials related to Idaho history.

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Former State Historian Merle Wells originated the Idaho State Historical Society Reference Series in the 1960s. Merle sought to have a series that provided people with quick snapshots of different topics in Idaho history.

Here you’ll find stories of famous Idahoans; of trappers and miners; of towns and counties; legends and battles; trails and historic sites.

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The Government Records Program preserves and provides access to a large volume of city, county, state and territorial historic government records. It also operates a State Record Center, which provides centralized storage and services to state agencies. Per Idaho Code 64-4126, the state archives is responsible for records management services. 

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The Idaho State Archives has a variety of resources to help you learn about your family’s history. Whether you are accessing our collections on-site or off-site, you are sure to find materials that will help.

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The Idaho State Archives seeks original material with enduring historical value and strong ties to Idaho. In addition to our role as the official repository for the State of Idaho, we also accept private donations of documents, letters, diaries, maps, photographs, and more. Each prospective donation is reviewed by the Idaho State Archives Collections Committee to evaluate its relevance and potential inclusion to the permanent collection.

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Family Looking at the Lincoln Exhibit

A. Lincoln: His Legacy in Idaho

The Abraham Lincoln: His Legacy in Idaho exhibition at the Idaho State Archives features over 200 artifacts and documents that reveal the intriguing and significant connections between the 16th president and the 43rd state.

Two People Sitting at a table is the Idaho State Archives

Research Requests

Idaho State Archives and Research Center staff is happy to help with questions. We offer 30 minutes of complimentary reference time per request. If your request requires additional research, staff can assist up to six hours of research at $50 per hour.

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