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Mission Statement

The Archdiocesan Archives are established in accordance with Canon 482 of the Code of Canon Law, which charges the Chancellor with responsibility for the archives.

The mission of the archives is to collect, preserve, organize and make available for research the permanently valuable records and artifacts of this archdiocese that reflect the work of the Church, its people and institutions.

Its purpose is to promote an understanding of the history and activities of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee as reflected in its records and artifacts.  It is through this mission that the archives participates in the strengthening of faith in southeastern Wisconsin, the United States and the Church Universal.

Can we help you find something?

If you are looking for your sacramental records, information can be found here.

If you are researching your family history and would like to obtain your ancestor's sacramental records, genealogical resources and information can be found here.

Are you researching an aspect of the history of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee?  Our cataloged holdings, including bishop's papers, St. Francis Seminary records, Catholic organizations, etc. are available through the TOPCAT site.  Note, you will not find genealogy/sacramental records on TOPCAT.  Information on researching genealogy can be found here.

You can also ask the archivist a question using the General Records Request Form.

The holdings of the Archives include, but are not limited to:

• Administrative records of various Archdiocesan offices
• Records of closed parishes
• Pre-1921 sacramental records
• The archival records of various Catholic individuals and organizations within the Archdiocese
• Parish histories
• St. Francis Seminary Records
• Photographs