Genealogy

Have you ever wondered if you had a relative that fought in the Civil War?  If so, the National Archives and Records Administration in Washington, DC can help you.  This government agency has information on nearly everyone that fought in the Civil War. To contact them you can call (202) 501-5170 or write to them directly at:

Textual Reference Branch (NWDT1)
National Archives and Records Administration
7^th and Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20408

When you call or write you will need to request a NATF Form 80. This form is easy to complete. You will need your relative’s full name, the state from which they served and whether they fought for the Union or Confederate army.  If you have additional information such as date of birth, date and place of death, or military rank, it will aid in the search.  This service is not free, it costs $10.00 if they are able to find a file on your relative. The $10.00 pays for them to photocopy the contents of the file for you. This is a small fee for learning more about your family member.  There is no charge if they are unable to locate a file on your relative.