New Year, Old You: Using the Genealogy Resources at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission for Reflection and Renewal
Originally published February 12, 2025
A Treasure Trove of Records
The Texas State Library and Archives Commission houses a wealth of genealogical materials, including census records, land grants, military service records, vital records, and historical newspapers. These primary source documents provide invaluable insights into the lives of Texans and those who lived in the area before it became the Lone Star State. - Census Records: Census records are often the starting point for genealogy research. They provide detailed information about families, including names, ages, occupations, and places of birth. TSLAC offers access to federal and state census records that can help patrons trace their ancestors back to their earliest days in Texas and beyond.
- Land Records: Texas has a rich history of land grants, especially in the 19th century. If patrons’ ancestors were among the settlers of Texas, these land records can offer a glimpse into their life on the frontier. TSLAC’s extensive collection includes original land grants, patents, and surveys, some of which go back to the 1830s.
- Military Records: If patrons have family members who served in the military, TSLAC’s collection of military records could be crucial in learning more about their service. The archives hold records related to the Texas Revolution, the Civil War, World War I, and other military conflicts that shaped Texas and the nation.
- Vital Records: Birth, marriage, and death records provide key details about people's lives. TSLAC’s holdings include digital collections of these vital records, helping patrons connect the dots between generations and uncover family stories.
- Newspapers: Newspapers can provide rich context for understanding the lives of the ancestors. They can offer obituaries, news reports, advertisements, and even social notices that tell a lot about the time period and community in which they lived. TSLAC provides access to historical newspapers from across Texas, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Tools and Resources for Research
TSLAC makes it easy to access these records through both in-person visits and online resources. The Texas State Archives, located in Austin, is open to the public, and the knowledgeable staff are always ready to assist with genealogical research. Additionally, TSLAC’s website offers a wide variety of online databases and digital collections that can be accessed from the comfort of a patron’s home. Some of the most popular online tools include:- Texas Digital Archive: This archive contains a variety of digitized historical records, from maps to government documents, all freely accessible online.
- Texas Genealogical Records: A portal to vital records, census data, and other genealogical resources specific to Texas. Special topics include African American Genealogy, American Indian Genealogy, and Mexican American Genealogy
- FamilySearch Partnership: TSLAC collaborates with FamilySearch to offer free access to its extensive genealogical databases.
In a world that’s constantly changing, genealogical research offers a connection to the past that can be deeply grounding. So, as patrons work toward new goals and resolutions for the year, encourage them to consider embracing a more expansive and much older context for who they are by adding “explore their family’s history” to the list. As they work their way through the TSLAC’s resources, they'll uncover pieces of their family’s past and weave them into the story of their own life. And with these resources at their disposal, the tools to uncover their ancestry are right at their fingertips. Whether they’re looking to fill in gaps in their family tree or simply connect with their past, TSLAC’s vast genealogy resources can help them on their journey to discover themselves in ways that are both personal and meaningful.
Happy researching, and here's to a year of discovery!
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