Albany County Hall of Records - Albany, NY

Albany County Hall of Records

Historical Archives and Records Management

The Albany County Hall of Records (ACHOR), located on Tivoli Street, serves as the central repository for the historical and inactive records of both Albany County and the City of Albany. Established in 1982 as a unique joint program between the city and county governments, this facility is dedicated to preserving the region's rich documentary heritage, which dates back to the Dutch colonial era. The Hall of Records provides secure, climate-controlled storage for permanent archives while offering a public research room for historians, genealogists, and legal professionals. The collection is vast, containing everything from 17th-century deeds and mortgages to naturalization records, census data, and historical maps that trace the development of New York's capital region.

• Genealogy Resources: Houses New York State census records (1855-1925), city directories, and almshouse records essential for family history research.
• Land Records: Maintains an extensive archive of property deeds, mortgages, and maps dating from 1630 to the mid-20th century.
• Naturalization Records: Preserves Declaration of Intention and Petition for Naturalization documents for immigrants who settled in Albany County (1827-1991).
• Records Management: Acts as the records center for local government agencies, storing inactive files until their legal retention periods expire.

Research and Access Policy

The Hall of Records is open to the public for on-site research, though visitors are encouraged to contact the staff in advance to ensure specific collections are retrieved from the vaults. The facility operates a specialized Search Room where patrons can view original documents under supervision. To protect the fragile nature of historical materials, strict rules are enforced, including the prohibition of pens and food in research areas. Staff members are available to assist with complex inquiries, and the agency also offers limited research services by mail for a fee. Whether tracing an ancestor's journey through the naturalization process or investigating the history of a specific property, the Hall of Records provides an invaluable window into Albany's past.