Good point from R.Jeffers USA (Ret) "(There really is something very special about handling the original files with the documents and signatures that cannot be replicated...)" This can give you goosebumps ! Yes, the military records (especially Civil War) are excellent at NARA. I have looked at MANY CW Pension files and Service Records at NARA in DC and have always got my files in less than 3 hours (hopefully this has not changed). It is best to submit these requests in the morning so you have time to view and copy the records on the same day. The availability of census records is also excellent. There free blank forms and don't forget to check out the books in the back room. There are also Ship records and maps. Based on my experience at NARA in DC, I found a big difference in the help from one individual to another. If you don't get good answers, try another person. The good people will stand out. The NARA in DC is open Tue, Thur and Fri evenings too. There is a not bad (price & food) deli across the street from NARA in DC - The Metro Deli - and benches outside at the Navy Memorial (sometimes a band too). If you get the opportunity, plan on checking out the DAR Genealogy Library. $5.00 admission but it is worth it. A lot of state information and many family genealogys available. No evening hours. Original Messages - Patti, I frequent the NARA in DC and have also visited the NARA in College Park (University of Maryland). What specifically would you like to research? Civil War and Census records are wonderful sources of information. If you have a Civil War Veteran to research, you must submit a request to view the file and return later in the week to review & copy the file. Otherwise, they will copy the file and mail it to you for a fee. (There really is something very special about handling the original files with the documents and signatures that cannot be replicated...) But to lessen any concerns you may have, there are usually numerous, highly knowledgeable college volunteers and employees on-site to assit in your research. That is the sole purpose of their work. Opening dates and hours are at: http://www.nara.gov/nara/dc/Archives1_directions.html I hope this helps. Regards, R.Jeffers USA (Ret) ----Original Message Follows---- From: Doug and Patti Ensor <ensor@spocom.com> To: OHBELMON-L@rootsweb.com Subject: [OHBELMON-L] National Archives Date: Mon, 12 Jun 2000 08:58:32 -0700 I will have the chance to visit the National Archives for a day at the end of June. I don't know where to start looking for Ohio info. Any suggestions? At one time, someone who worked there was on this list - if you still are reading, please write to me separately from the list. If anyone has visited the archives and can give me some suggestions, I would dearly love to hear from you. Patti >>