Research

The Polk County Museum is the perfect place to research your Polk County family history!

Research Library

We have an extensive research library that includes books, obituaries, articles, photographs, and various genealogical resources pertaining to hundreds of historic and current Polk County families, as well as numerous genealogical reference publications. We have hundreds of files covering local history along with many history reference publications.

Our staff members are always happy to help you with your search. If you prefer, you can hire our researcher ($15 per hour) to search our records for you. Come in and see us. We’ll gladly help get you started!

For your convenience, you can download the Research Request Form.

Access to all records is included in the Museum admission fee. Access is free to Polk County Historical Society members.

Searchable DVD/SURNAME Collections

Peruse our DVD collection when you visit our museum.  This collection of over 200 DVD's includes recordings of programs held in the Stafrin Room as well as many interviews of Oregon residents from the early 1900’s to the very early 2000's. The complete list is available as a PDF sent to your email upon request. You might find a recording of a relative or friend. Copies can be made and are sold through our bookstore for $9.95 each.

The PCHS Library has hundreds of Surname Files (note the file cabinets behind our Archivist, Tom Branigar) covering many individuals and families involved in Polk County History. You can browse these files online and should you find a name of interest, come into the Museum Library and peruse the folder. Page copies can be made at a cost of .25 cents per page.

DVD Collection

Postcards and Photographs

Polk County Museum houses thousands of photographs of families, businesses, and places that are    part of Polk County history. The digital photo archives are available by appointment only. The board member responsible for the archives will be available to assist you in acquiring copies at the time of your appointment. Please refer to the pricing chart below.

      • 300 dpi Color Copy (8 ½”x11” image on standard paper): $3
      • 300 dpi Color Copy (4”x6” image on photographic quality paper): $5
      • 300 dpi Color Copy (8”x10” image on photographic quality paper): $10
      • 300 dpi Color Scan to CD/per image: $5
      • PCHS-provided CD: $2 per CD
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      • NOTE: No thumb drives or personal scanners permitted!

Special Publication Requests

If you have a special publication request, complete the Publications Request Form and submit to the Polk County Historical Society.