Each U.S. has a state archives to preserve government records from counties and state agencies. Did you know that some states have branches of the state archives? These are facilities found around the same state. Have you been missing some records that may fill in blank spots on the family tree? The reasons for their existence, ways of operating, collection finding aids, types of collections, and staff are varied. Learn more about these, access, staffing, and the often-surprising material and indexes they hold.