Office > Archives

The diocesan Office of Archives is open by appointment only. Scholars seeking access to the archives for research purposes must submit a request to the archivist providing specific information on the topic of their research. Once the request is approved, the individual will be notified and an appointment to visit the facility can be scheduled. Appointments are ordinarily scheduled several weeks in advance in order to allow the archives staff sufficient time to assemble the materials needed for the research project. For further information on the policies and procedures concerning the use of the archives, click the Policies & Procedures link to the left.

Museum exhibits are open by appointment. Any individual, parish group, social organization or school group wishing to visit the museum should call the Office of Archives at 804- 359-5661, ext. 218. Archives staff will coordinate the tour date and time with the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. For information on current and upcoming exhibits and programs or for more information on scheduling your tour, please visit the museum’s website: www.richmonddiocese.org/office/museum

The diocesan Office of Archives does not maintain sacramental records (baptismal, marriage and burial registers). These records are always kept at the parish where the sacrament was conferred or from where the burial took place. In the event that a parish has closed, it is the practice of the Diocese of Richmond that the sacramental records of the closed parish are transferred and maintained by the parish that took over the closed parish’s geographical territory. The archives can assist you by helping to identify the parish where the sacramental records are currently kept. For more information on obtaining sacramental records, please click the Sacramental Records link to the left.