Archives and Records Management
We manage, preserve, and provide access to the municipal government records of Boston. We are a division of the City Clerk’s office.
We develop and carry out citywide policy and procedures for the management of City government records. Our work encourages people to access and use Boston’s archival records.
The records we keep enable people to inspect what Boston municipal government has done, allow officials and agencies to review their actions, and help citizens hold government accountable. Through our work, we guarantee ready access to essential evidence that documents the rights of citizens, the actions of municipal officials, and Boston's historical municipal experience.
Contact
-
201 Rivermoor Street
West Roxbury, MA 02132 -
Visits by appointment onlyMonday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Featured collections
Collections
Building permit plans collection
We hold blueprints, architectural drawings, and Building Inspector reports submitted with applications for new construction and alterations from 1879-1969.
Neighborhood photograph collections
We digitized more than 3,000 historic photographs of Boston's neighborhoods. Browse these historic images documenting Boston over the centuries.
Oral Histories
We've digitized over 160 oral history recordings from Bostonians across the city. Listen to Bostonians describe their experiences with immigration, the Civil Rights movement, the world wars, the 1918 Flu Pandemic and more.
Uncovering Boston's history
Watch: Women's voting registry
A look at the voting records from 1920, when women were granted the right to vote.
Watch: North Street petition
Paul Revere and North Street residents band together to fight a sewer issue.
More videos from Boston Uncovered
We launched a video series highlighting Boston's history.
