Genealogy Resources
National and International
Find-a-Grave–Over 190 million graves listed from around the world; searchable by name of deceased or by cemetery.
Family Search–Organized and managed by the Jesus Christ Church of Latter Day Saints this website is almost on par with the quality of Ancestry.com with its records. There are millions of records from all over the world here, all for free-including Arnold’s Vital Records of RI. Requires a free account.
Library of Congress–The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world, with millions of books, recordings, photographs, newspapers, maps and manuscripts in its collections.
National Archives and Records Administration–Includes military records, educator resources and America’s founding documents. Records date back to 1775.
US GenWeb Project–USGenWeb was established in 1996 by a group of genealogists who shared a desire to create online centers for genealogical research.
Local and Statewide
Hopkinton Historical Association–Newcomers and long-time residents of Hopkinton are welcome to join to learn about life here in Hopkinton in the past. Birth, death, probate and war records are available. There is a modest annual membership fee. Email: hopkintonrihistory@gmail.com
RI Cemetery Database–This cemetery database is searchable by name of deceased, cemetery name or number, and by town. Includes Most of the cemeteries in RI. are included but some towns have not been researched yet. For more information email Pegee Malcolm: pmalcolm@cox.net
RI Genealogical Society–RIGS was formed in 1975 to aid those looking for answers to genealogy questions pertaining to RI. Each year the Society holds two workshops, two lectures, and an Annual Meeting in May. Each meeting includes lectures and Information on many genealogical topics pertaining to RI families. A quarterly publication, Rhode Island Roots, provides additional historical information. There is a small annual membership fee.
RI Historical Society–The RIHS located at 100 Benevolent Street in Providence, RI was founded in 1822 and is a privately endowed membership organization. The society is dedicated to collecting, preserving and sharing Rhode Island history. The collection includes over 100,00 printed books and over 110,000 photographs, 25,00 museum objects and 3400 maps. All visitors must fill out a registration form and adhere to museum policies. There is no fee for Rhode Island residents.
RI State Archives–The State Archives is home to more than 10 million letters, photographs, and important state documents that form a permanent, tangible record of Rhode Island’s rich history. Access genealogical records, manuscripts, administrative histories, and more with the assistance of State Archives staff. Email: statearchives@sos.ri.gov
Richmond RI Historical Society-Started in 1968, the society includes an extensive local history housed at Clark Memorial Library. Its purpose is to foster the study and collection of the oral and written history of the region. There is a small annual membership fee. Email: rihiso@gmail.com
South County History Center–The mission of the center is to “ lead the discovery and preservation of South County’s history”. Located at 2636 Kingstown Rd., collections include maps, photographs and library archives.
Westerly Public Library Indexed Collection of Births, Marriages and Obituaries –This is a wonderful source for finding family information in our local area. Newspaper records as far back as 1858 are on microfilm. Access to this collection is limited due to covid. For information call 401-596-2877. https://westerlylibrary.org/
