State seal - Maine Secretary of State

Maine State Archives

Welcome to the Maine State Archives

The Maine State Archives, a bureau within the Department of Secretary of State, maintains approximately eight miles of official State records considered to be permanently valuable. Our historical material includes documents such as the original state constitution, reported election results, legislative bills, and policies and research created by state agencies among much more. The Maine State Archives includes two divisions:

Archives Services Division preserves and provides access to many archival records, including those mentioned above. Researchers may request general information or specific records by contacting Archives Services in person, by phone, or email.

Records Management Division helps to establish and administer efficient and effective records management programs within State and local governments and ensure records are being retained for appropriate periods of time through Records Retention Schedules. 

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We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Maine Semiquincentennial Commission Grant Program commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. 

Funded by the Maine State Archives and the Maine State Cultural Affairs Council, this one-time grant opportunity well help create meaningful commemorations that honor Maine’s past and inspire its future. 

The purpose of this grant program is to support inclusive, community-centered research, events, programs, projects, or exhibitions offered by museums, heritage areas, history organizations and sites, other nonprofits, or state, county, municipal, or tribal entities. Grants of up to $10,000 are available and do not require any fund matching or cost sharing.

Visit this link for more information and to download the application. Grant applications are due October 31, 2025, and selected recipients will be notified by December 15.
 

Open to Collaborate

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Maine State Archives is committed to the development of new modes of collaboration, engagement, and partnership with Indigenous peoples for the care and stewardship of past and future heritage collections. Learn more about this notification.