Researching cultural resources throughout the National Park Service (NPS) can be tricky. There isn't one specific database that includes *everything*. Many archeologists know this all too well. They may try to research one archeological site only to find out it was excavated before the site became a national park or monument. And to complicate things, the artifacts and records are spread across the U.S.!
The links below will guide you through archival research, planning, and hands-on investigation. Oh, also: you need a research permit for on-site work in national parks. Before you apply in the system, make sure to reach out to the park's coordinator and staff to discuss the project.
Initial Research
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Go See IRMA
Integrated Resource Management Applications - Data Store holds documents and datasets about natural and cultural resources in all NPS units.
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Search eTIC
The online resource for NPS generated drawings, specifications, scientific, and technical reports is the e-Technical Information Center.
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Find a Report
What you need isn't digitized online? Check out the NPS Library to see if there is a copy near you.
Archival Research
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A History of Service
Looking into the history of the NPS? Check out Harpers Ferry Center's collection, with millions of objects and documents.
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Park History Is Everyone's History
The NPS Park History/Federal Preservation Office page has many useful links to digital collections, including the National Register.
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HABS/HAER/HALS!
The Heritage Documentation Programs focus on architectural, engineering, and landscape documentation. Check out their collections.
Hands-On Research
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Talk to the Park
Contact the park's research coordinator before submitting grants/funding and your permit application.
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Visit Collections
Some collections are at parks, but most artifacts are in NPS archeology centers.
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Locating Collections
The NPS Museum Program site is a wealth of information on practices, as well as listing some NPS collections, including herbarium specimens.
Last updated: October 15, 2024