Guide to Records Relating to the Revolutionary War
In the New York State Archives
Visit the Guides to Historical Records section of the Publications area to obtain a PDF or print copy of this publication.
Table of Contents
- Overview
- Introduction
- Subject Categories:
- Administration of Colonial and State Government
- Claims and Payments for Services Rendered or Expenses Incurred
- Land Bounties
- Forfeited Estates
- Pensions
- Finance
- Proposed Publications of Revolutionary War Records
- Correspondence of State Officials Concerning Revolutionary War Veterans
- List of Records by Series Number
- List of Records on Microform
The records described here consist of 75 series totalling nearly 120 cubic feet. The level of description varies among series; in many cases, container listings and/or indexes are available at the Archives. Many of the records have been microfilmed, and microfilm copies are available on inter-library loan or for purchase. Microfilming of selected records was supported in part by grant funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities.
The entries in this finding aid are grouped by the general subject category that appear below, each with a short introduction. However, there is much overlap because many series contain information on more than one subject..
Entries for each series in this guide provide the name of the originating agency or office, series title, dates, quantity, arrangement, informational content of the records, an indication of available finding aids and indexes, a note indicating availability in microform, and an indication of restrictions due to the fragile condition of some of the records.
Many of the records listed in this guide were severely damaged by the State Capitol Fire of 1911, and access may be restricted due to their fragile physical condition. Use of microfilm copies or published versions of the records may be required by the Archives depending on the physical condition of the original records.
It is unfortunate that because of fire damage some of the series listed in this guide have negligible informational value. Although they are listed here for the sake of completeness and to accurately represent the breadth of State Archives holdings, these fragmentary records offer slight help to researchers interested in individual data or specific case knowledge. Prior to visiting the Archives, researchers should request information on the condition or completeness of the series in question. Contact the archives via e-mail at: archref@mail.nysed.gov
The State Archives lacks the resources to undertake searches for individual names not linked to specific documents. Archives staff will, however, make every effort to locate copies of specific documents which researchers have identified through use of published sources or unpublished indexes available for on-site use at the State Archives. Photoduplication services are available from the Archives on a fee- for-service basis. Click Here for the current Fee Schedule
Archives holdings are searchable through Excelsior, the online catalog of the New York State Archives.
Records in the State Archives may be used at the Archives' research room. Certain record series have been microfilmed by the State Archives, and the film may be borrowed on inter-library loan or purchased. For further information please contact contact us.
