Resources

Military Records in Pennsylvania: Unique Archival Sources for Family History

Finding unique military records in Pennsylvania for genealogy and family history at Gettysburg and Valley Forge.

Denyse Allen

01 Jul 2021 • 3 min read

Military records are a valuable source to uncover the stories of our ancestors who served in major wars right here on Pennsylvania soil.

There were four major military conflicts in Pennsylvania: the French and Indian War, the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and the Civil War. Below is a unique archival resource from each war you can use to make a more personal connection to your family history.

French and Indian War: Fort Necessity National Battlefield

The French and Indian War saw Pennsylvania’s lands at the heart of a struggle for control of North America. Fort Necessity National Battlefield, located near Farmington, is the site of George Washington’s first military action in 1754. If you have early colonial ancestors, they may have been involved in this conflict or affected by it.

Research Tips: Fort Necessity offers many exhibits and educational materials on British, French, and Native American forces of the time right on their website. The National Park Service staff can guide you toward resources and records that may reveal your ancestor’s involvement.

Revolutionary War: Valley Forge National Historical Park

Valley Forge is a place where Revolutionary War soldiers endured severe hardship, and the experience transformed them. The winter encampment of 1777–1778 marked a time of resilience for soldiers and leaders alike. If you’re tracing family history back to the Revolutionary War, Valley Forge’s archives may contain details on your ancestor who was there.

Where to Start: Valley Forge National Park’s extensive archives include over 5,000 books, personal items, and manuscripts connected to the encampment. You can start your search remotely by reviewing the park’s library finding aids for Revolutionary War records.
Online Resources: Valley Forge offers online resources as well, including detailed park history. If your research leads to family members in the Revolutionary era, these materials could give you fresh perspectives on their lives and experiences. Explore their publications online here.

War of 1812: Erie Maritime Museum

The Erie Maritime Museum’s War of 1812 collection captures the spirit of those who defended the Great Lakes. Highlights include naval artifacts from the Battle of Lake Erie, one of the war’s most pivotal confrontations, where Oliver Hazard Perry’s crew, alongside soldiers and militia, secured a crucial victory.

Archival Collections: These collections feature personal items and documents from those who fought to protect the young country For anyone tracing family lines back to the War of 1812, these pieces offer a compelling connection to ancestors who took part in shaping the region's heritage. Much of the research collection is digitized.

Civil War: Gettysburg National Military Park

Gettysburg is Pennsylvania’s most prominent Civil War site, known for its intense battles and the momentous Gettysburg Address. If you suspect an ancestor fought in the Civil War, a trip to Gettysburg offers unique opportunities to find records and learn about their experience.

Research Collections: The Gettysburg National Military Park houses a Research Center with collections organized by military units. You can dive into personal accounts, battle records, and even specific regiment histories that may connect you to an ancestor who served. Start your search with their Research Center’s resources and library guide.
Annual Events: Each July and November, Gettysburg hosts commemorative events to honor those who fought and died there. These gatherings can offer more than just history—they’re a chance to engage directly with reenactors, and park guides who can point you to more sources on your ancestor's unit.

Why Explore Archival Records? Add Depth to Your Family Story

Researching military ancestors is more than just visiting historic sites; it’s about piecing together details that build a clearer picture of your family’s past.

Pennsylvania’s military sites and archives can be powerful sources of connection and discovery, revealing the roles your ancestors played in shaping US history. So, whether you’re diving into archives at Gettysburg or exploring digital collections from Erie Maritime Museum, each record brings you closer to knowing those who came before.

You can also find out more about the Pennsylvania State Archives military records, in Episode 60 of the Your Pennsylvania Ancestors podcast in an interview with Aaron McWilliams: