Charlottesville and Albemarle History and Research
Use this guide to find materials and resources covering the diverse history of the city of Charlottesville and Albemarle County.
Reference Team
Getting Started in Biographical or Genealogical Research
Beginning your search for individual or family history may feel overwhelming, so remember there are lots of wonderful resources and people who can help you:
- UVA Library's Genealogy research guide: focuses on Virginia genealogy
- Genealogy websites, organizations, research guides, classes, and professionals for hire
- Contact UVA Library's Reference Team for a genealogy consultation
- For information on attendees or graduates of UVA, begin with the UVA History and Research guide.
- Charlottesville genealogy and history groups: Burke Brown Steppe, the African American Genealogy Group, and Central Virginia History Researchers.
Collection Highlights
Archival Collections
Family Papers and Histories: Browse the many family histories and paper collections housed at Special Collections.
Duke Family--Including the papers of the Duke and Duke Law Firm; personal papers; and resources on Sunnyside, the Duke Family home
Recommended Resources at Other Organizations
The Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society
- Vertical Files--a clippings collection containing family trees, researchers' notes, and other miscellaneous information. Organized alphabetically by family; while the index is available online, the files may only be seen in person.
- Manuscripts and Pamphlets Collection--includes family papers, farm records, letters and diary entries, and genealogical materials for a number of area families.
- Find learning opportunities, resources, and more