Collections and Research

The Springfield Armory National Historic Site Museum Collections contains over 13,000 cataloged objects and archival collections. Upon establishment of Springfield Armory National Historic Site (SPAR) in 1978, the National Park Service (NPS) became stewards of a museum and collection that was not only one of the largest firearm collections in the world, but also a formal museum operation that was over 100 years old.

The SPAR Museum Collection is part of the NPS Museum Management Program. It is NPS policy to collect, protect, preserve, provide access to, and use objects, specimens, and archival and manuscript collections to aid understanding and advance knowledge. Collections play important roles in resource management, research, and education programs, and function as baseline databases for park natural and cultural resources.

The SPAR Museum collection is available to researchers and select objects are on exhibit.

Springfield Armory National Historic Site does not provide staff for research services. Members of the public may request an appointment to research on site by contacting our museum curator.
 
A black and white photo of rows of muskets in the armory arsenal.
Museum Collections

The NPS museum program preserves the collections at Springfield Armory NHS for future generations.

A black and white photo of 5 people holding magazines standing along a fence.
Archives

The archival collection at Springfield Armory NHS contains historical records, photographs, blueprints, and manuscripts containing unique an

A black and white photo of a woman standing in front of a library shelf full of books.
Library Collection

The Library Collection at Springfield Armory NHS include a general circulation library, rare books, historic newspapers, microfilm and more.

A black and white photo of various firearms on a vertical display.
Other Resources

Additional reference resources available to all.

 

 

FAQ about Research and Collections at Springfield Armory NHS

Last updated: September 10, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Springfield Armory National Historic Site
One Armory Square
Suite 2

Springfield, MA 01105

Phone:

413 734-8551
The phone is answered during museum operating hours. All other times callers will be prompted to leave a voice message that will be received and responded to during museum operating hours.

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