Archives & Library

Archives Searches:

If you are unable to come to our Richmond office to use the archives, and would like our staff to process your request, we can provide that service for a fee. Please note: The Archives will invoice you the amount due after completing a search; please do not send cash or checks in advance.

To conduct a search, we will need a copy of a USGS topographical quad map clearly delineating your project sited landscape we know today. The quad map must be accompanied by a search request form and a signed conditions for use agreement. To print these two forms, select the link below in the Forms section. An invoice will be included with your search results. In order to issue an invoice, we will need your company’s Federal ID number.

Descriptions and fee schedules for the search services are as follows:

Maps Only Searches. A search of the Department of Historic Resources' (DHR) cultural resource inventory for locational data only on all previously recorded archaeological sites, and architectural structures and districts. You will receive a map (or maps) showing the locations of any architectural resources within either your marked project area, or within a designated radius of your site. You will also receive a map showing the archaeological sites in the immediate vicinity of your project area.

The cost is $25 per quad sheet searched, plus a $50 processing fee for each project. Even if no previously identified resources are present within the radius, you will still receive copies of our maps, and the fees will still be assessed. We strive to complete the search for you within 10 business days of our receipt of a clearly marked USGS quad map, the completed request form, and a signed Conditions for Use agreement.

Detailed Searches. A search of the DHR’s cultural resource inventory for the presence of all previously recorded archaeological sites, and architectural structures and districts. You will receive maps showing the locations of any architectural or archaeological resources within your marked project area, as noted in the previous section.

You will also receive copies of architectural survey forms and archaeological site forms for those resources identified in your search area, and copies of photos of the architectural resources. In addition, you will receive a printout of the architectural and archaeological resources arranged by DHR file number, indicating whether the resource is in the registers, or has been evaluated by the department for possible inclusion in the registers. If an archaeological site has been evaluated for possible eligibility for listing in the registers, then you will also receive a copy of that letter of determination or evaluation form.

Our results will be sent to you by standard mail unless other arrangements are pre-arranged. A space is provided on our search request form for you to include your Federal Express or UPS number if you desire overnight delivery of the results. An invoice will be included with your search results. The cost is $25 per quad sheet searched, a $50 processing fee for each project, and $10 per site for the forms and a printout of each resource identified within your project area. If the file is missing, then that will be noted and the fee will not be charged. If no resources are identified in your project area, you will still receive copies of our maps, and the processing and quad sheet fees will still be assessed:

Expedited Searches. If you require the information urgently, we offer an expedited archives search, for which a surcharge of $150 will be added. Please mark the expedited box on the search form in addition to marking either the "maps only" or "detailed" search box, if you desire the faster service. The goal is to complete the expedited search in three business days or less from the day on which we receive a completed request form, Conditions for Use agreement, and proper USGS quad mapping. You will be contacted if circumstances prevent us from successfully completing your search within the three-day goal to give you an estimated time frame.

Conditions. DHR serves as the official state repository on historic resources. This information has been compiled primarily by independent cultural resource consultants. The department makes no warranty as to the fitness of the data for any purpose.

The absence of historic resources in DHR records does not necessarily mean that no historic properties are present. It is possible that the area in question has not been systematically surveyed for resources.

Obtaining information on previously recorded historic properties does not constitute review under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. If a project is federally funded, licensed, or permitted, the federal agency may require you to obtain DHR comment under Section 106. If you are also requesting a review of your project on behalf of a federal agency, you may download a Project Review Form. This is a separate process that does not involve the archives, and thus cannot be accomplished concurrent with an archives search.

Forms. In order to read and print the following form, Adobe Acrobat Reader must be installed on your computer (free software). Download Acrobat Reader now.

Archives Search Request and Conditions for Use Agreement

Please send your completed search request form, your marked USGS quad map, and your signed Conditions for Use agreement to:

Archives Search Service
c/o Quatro Hubbard
Department of Historic Resources
2801 Kensington Avenue
Richmond, VA 23221

You may fax your documentation to the attention of the Archives at (804) 367-2391.

If you have any questions concerning this information, please contact: Quatro Hubbard,
Archivist, Phone: (804) 367-2323 ext.125; Fax: (804) 367-2391

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