Research Services Frequently Asked Questions

How do I receive my NEHGS member discount?
To receive your NEHGS member discount you must be logged onto the website when submitting your request. If you are submitting your request by mail, please be sure and include your membership number on the order form.

How long before my request is completed?
Because of the volume of requests we receive, each request generally takes 4-6 weeks to be completed. If you would like to receive your materials sooner please enquire about our rush services.

Can I request copies of microtext materials from the Photocopy Service?
The only microtext materials available through the photocopy service are copies of Massachusetts Vital Records, 1841-1910. Copies of other microtext materials may be obtained by submitting a research order form.

Can I receive copies of Massachusetts Vital Record 1841-1910s?
Copies of Massachusetts Vital Records (1841-1910) are available from the photocopy service. Please provide the name(s), type of record, year, volume, and page number with each request.

How do I receive copies from the manuscript collections?
Copies of materials from the NEHGS Manuscript Collections may be ordered by submitting a research order form.

Copies of manuscripts are only available to members of NEHGS.

What information should I include with my request?
It is important to provide as much information as you can when submitting your request. Make the request as specific as possible. If you aware of specific sources that may be able to answer your question(s) include them with your request. Consider sending supplemental materials (family group sheets, pedigree charts, documents, etc.) by e-mail to research@nehgs.org or by mail to NEHGS Research Services, 101 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116. If possible include transcriptions or abstracts of records which may help our researchers as they fulfill your request. To prevent duplication of research efforts it is important to include a listing of other records you have already examined in relationship to the research question and the results of those searches.

How many hours of research should I authorize?
Because each case is different it is difficult to predict how many hours a particular project will take. Feel free to contact us regarding your particular request for an estimate regarding the amount of time your project could take. Remember that our fee reflects the time taken in the search, not the ancestors found.

What will I receive from NEHGS?
You will receive a report of our research activities detailing the sources searched and our conclusions. We will also include suggestions for further research, if indicated. Copies of supporting documents will also be enclosed.