ARCHIVES

The Archives collection is comprised of the historical administrative records of the U.S. Military Academy, dating from its founding in 1802 through the present. Manuscripts, typescripts, publications, photographs, sound recordings, and maps are all included in the collection. To qualify for the Archives, material must have been generated by the Academy in the course of official business and must be of permanent historical value. Although maintained at West Point, these materials constitute record group 404 of the National Archives of the United States. As part of the National Archives, they are available to researchers within the confines of applicable rules, regulations, and statutes.

The Archives include many series of Academy publications, to include the cadet yearbook, Howitzer; the post newspaper, Pointer View; Annual Reports of the Superintendent; and many others.

In addition to the original records comprising record group 404, the USMA Archives maintains National Archives Microfilm Publications of related records from other record groups.

SPECIAL COLLECTIONS

The Special Collections are comprised of a variety of materials from private and commercial sources. They are often made available to researchers from outside the Academy by request.

The Special Collections include approximately 1,500 linear feet of manuscript materials. Most of the collection consists of personal manuscripts of Academy alumni; however, some non-graduate papers are also included.

The collections also include many extraordinary rare books. Among them are 16th and 17th century European imprints, 18th century American imprints, the Sylvanus Thayer Collection acquired for the Academy in the early years of its existence, and many volumes of enhanced value due to their associations with famous individuals.

The collections include many books on special subjects, including books written by and about Academy alumni, as well as books on the history of West Point, USMA, and the Hudson Valley.