"Some of the topics described in this guide are : abolition and abolitionists, affirmative action, African American colleges and universities ..., almshouses, business, census, certification and licensing ..., charitable and beneficial organization, civil rights, churches, corporations, county records, court records, education, governors' papers, governmental records, Habeas Corpus papers, historical events, historical markers, homes and hospitals, industries ..., legislators, marriages, migrant labor, military, music, prisons, slavery and slaves, sports, underground railroad, veterans' schools ..., women's activities and organizations, and the Work Projects Administration programs"--Introduction.

The genealogist trying to locate families, the surveyor or attorney researching old deeds, or the historian seeking data on land settlement will find Pennsylvania Land Records an indispensable aid. The land records of Pennsylvania are among the most complete in the nation, beginning in the 1680s. Pennsylvania Land Records not only catalogs, cross-references, and tells how to use the countless documents in the archive, but also takes readers through a concise history of settlement in the state. The guide explains how to use the many types of records, such as rent-rolls, ledgers of the receiver general's office, mortgage certificates, proof of settlement statements, and reports of the sale of town lots. In addition, the volume includes: cross-references to microfilm copies; maps of settlement; illustrations of typical documents; a glossary of technical terms; and numerous bibliographies on related topics.

This lavishly-illustrated book celebrating the centennial of the State Archives tells the story of Pennsylvania's history through its documentary heritage. Early maps, photographs, posters, land surveys, legal records, journal entries, letters, and architectural drawings--presented in full color--provide a glimpse of the richness of the Archive's collections. The book also includes the history of the Archives from its modest beginnings in 1903 to the present-day.

A resource for the photographic conservator, conservation scientist, curator, as well as professional collector, this volume synthesizes both the masses of research that has been completed to date and the international standards that have been established on the subject.