Family Histories

The library has an extensive collection of published and manuscript genealogies. Many families have donated their documented research and genealogical charts. Most family histories are located in the Library Reading Room. Family histories can be accessed by searching our card catalog for the surname you are researching.

We are always interested in expanding our permanent collection of Rhode Island family histories, so please contact our reference department by email (reference@rihs.org) or by phone (401.273.8107 x10) if you would like to make a donation.

Genealogies for sale

The library occasionally receives donations of genealogies for our “Book Sale” shelves, so please be sure to browse this area in the first floor Reading Room when you visit. Proceeds for book sale items benefit the library. If you don’t find what you are looking for on our sale shelves, the Higginson Book Company of Salem, Massachusetts sells reprints of many family histories.

Donor Privacy Policy

The Rhode Island Historical Society’s Commitment to Our Donors

We will not sell, share, or trade our donors’ names or personal information with any other entity. We will not send mailings to our donors on behalf of other organizations. This policy applies to all information received by RIHS on any platform by any means, both online and offline, as well as any electronic, written, or oral communications. To the extent any donations may be processed through a third-party service provider, our donors’ information will only be used for purposes necessary to process the donation.

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