Whether researching a Depression-era ancestor or looking for historical context, there’s likely to be something of interest to you in the records of the Works Progress Administration. This lecture explores a wide range of WPA projects that have special interest to genealogists and researchers including historical records surveys and some of the most comprehensive studies of American life that have ever been conducted. Also covered is how to access the WPA’s published works as well as those that remain as unpublished manuscripts.
The webinar “Research Treasures in the WPA: You Won’t Believe What You’ll Find” by Sharon Batiste Gillins introduces genealogists to a powerful yet often overlooked resource—the records of the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Created during the Great Depression under Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal, the WPA not only provided meaningful employment for millions but also left behind an extraordinary archive of materials. These records, ranging from manuscripts to personnel files, offer both direct evidence about ancestors and rich historical context about the communities in which they lived. Gillins guides researchers through the scope of WPA programs, the types of surviving records, and strategies for uncovering them, demonstrating how these collections can illuminate both family histories and the broader social fabric of 1930s–40s America.
Key Takeaways:
Discovering Ancestors in WPA Records: Many families have ties to WPA projects, whether through employment as laborers, clerks, artists, or writers. The 1940 U.S. Census, city directories, and personnel files (accessible through the National Archives using forms such as NA 14137 and 14136) can confirm participation and provide details like work assignments, salaries, and personal information.
Using Finding Aids and Manuscripts: Because most WPA projects ended abruptly with World War II, much of the material survives as unpublished manuscripts. Finding Aids—such as those for the Federal Writers’ Project—are essential tools for navigating these collections, many of which reside in national, state, and local archives. Databases like ArchiveGrid, WorldCat, and regional resources such as TARO help pinpoint manuscripts relevant to specific research questions.
Context-Rich Projects for Genealogists: Among the WPA’s most significant initiatives were the Historical Records Survey, the American Guide Series, and the Federal Writers’ Project. These generated inventories of courthouse and church records, state and regional histories, folklore accounts, and the invaluable slave narratives. Together, they provide unparalleled insights into local life, cultural traditions, and community structures during the Depression era.
For genealogists seeking to expand their understanding of ancestors’ lives, WPA resources are a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Viewing the full webinar will provide step-by-step strategies, practical examples, and guidance on how to locate and use these diverse collections effectively.
Be sure to consult the accompanying syllabus, which compiles Finding Aids, request forms, and archival links to help you launch your own WPA research journey. These additional resources offer the keys to uncovering both hidden family details and the broader historical contexts that shaped their experiences.
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Syllabus
Spellbinding! So much information and I appreciate the “how to find” detailed answers. I’m already looking at my relatives 1940 US Census records.
This was a fantastic webinar! I learned so much. I had come across an ancestor in the WPA and looked unsuccessfully for more information. I’m so excited to search again and I’m very hopeful with what I’ll find. I can’t wait to share my findings with the rest of the family. Thank you so very much for this information!
The time flew by in this webinar. Whether you are researching WPA records or not, Sharon shows so many “rabbit holes” you’ll want to DIVE into! She added that this was only the “tip of the iceberg”! The available resources are amazing – as is Sharon’s presenting style. She definitely leaves you wanting to hear more! I LOVE WEBTEMBER!!
I really enjoyed Sharon’s presentation on the WPA! The info was excellent!
WOW! what a presentation. Another source I had never realized was available. Sharon is a fantastic presenter, very knowledgeable and excited about her subject. Her enthusiasm is infectious and makes me want to dive into the subject immediately!
So many sources were mentioned today that are totally new to me. I want to look up information on an artist who did post office murals. I am related to him through my grandfather. I also write for our local historical society newsletter and this is a great idea for a story. Work was done on a local park. I also recently read about roads being built in a local forest preserve. Both were WPA projects.
Never even knew of these records. Wonderful!!
This was informative regarding new (for me at least) resources and how to use them in a very practical and useful way. As always I am ‘in awe’ pf this speakers skill providing new ways to become excited about family research. Thank you so much.