About the City Archives

The Office of the City Clerk Archives and Records Center (the City Archives) is the final repository for the permanent and historic municipal records of the City of Manchester, New Hampshire.

The City Archives preserves Manchester’s municipal records that have been appraised as historic, or are designated as permanent in accordance with RSA 33-A. The archives also preserves non-municipal records that contribute to the cultural heritage of the City. Records are made accessible through the online publication of collection guides or finding aids, reference assistance, online exhibits of digitized materials, and the general promotion of public use.

The City Archives collects a wide variety of records from City departments. Collection highlights include the records of the Board of Mayor and Aldermen, Election Records, vital records (such as birth, death, and marriage certificates), Street Petitions, and Office of the Mayor Records. Collections of non-city records are also available, and include photographs, postcards, personal papers, and organizational records of Manchester individuals and entities.

The City Archives, through the collection and preservation of historically valuable records, document the unique cultural heritage of Manchester and its citizens, enable the public to research the actions of the City of Manchester, allow government officials and agencies to review past actions in order to make well-informed decisions moving forward, and contribute to an accountable and transparent government.

Hours

Monday - Friday: 8:00AM to 5:00PM by appointment only. Please give at least 24 hours notice when making an appointment, and please be prepared to let the archivist know what records you are interested in viewing. The office is closed on City holidays.

We cannot supply information over the telephone or via email. All requests must be in writing, and payment is required for vital records information.