Archives and Special Collections selects, preserves, and shares primary source materials that have long-term value for research and instruction at UWM. We also respond to the information needs of researchers locally and worldwide, partner with instructors at UWM and elsewhere to provide high-impact instruction, coordinate the university’s records retention program, and exhibit our holdings on campus and in the community.
Our archival collections document the history of UWM and the Milwaukee metropolitan area. We provide further access to archival sources by serving as an Area Research Center (ARC) of the Wisconsin Historical Society (WHS). The Milwaukee ARC Collection includes birth, death, marriage, naturalization, probate, and property records for Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Sheboygan, Washington, and Waukesha counties. By participating in this statewide network of ARCs, the Archives is able to provide local access to the archival holdings of the WHS and other ARCs via the ARC transfer system.
Our rare book and special printed material collections support a broad range of research and teaching activities in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. Areas of collecting interest include American nursing history, art and architecture, aviation history, Civil War regimental histories, contemporary fine-press printing and the book arts, gay and lesbian study, Irish literature, Jewish studies, labor and radical movements, local small-press publishing, Native American literature, manuscript collections, printing and publishing history, social justice, UWM authors and women’s studies.
Archives and Special Collections is open to all UWM faculty, staff, and students, as well as the general public. No special permission or letters of reference are required. Individuals wishing to use our materials must complete a registration form and present a valid photo ID. Materials must be used in our reading room and may not be checked out. Most archival collections may be temporarily transferred to another Area Research Center.