Clayton Library Center for Genealogical Research
Written: Jan 05 '01 (Updated Jan 06 '01)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: This is a top research facility
Cons: Needs more North Eastern materials
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| janetaba's Full Review: Houston |
The Clayton Library, Center for Genealogical Research is a special branch of the Houston Public Library System. Unlike other branches, the materials housed in the two building complex may not leave the premises.
When I first started my genealogy research, Clayton was housed solely in the Clayton Home. It had two stories, with books piled high on shelves, and there was barely any room to walk between the aisles. There were all of 5 microfilm readers. There are over 60 microfilm readers now, and at least 20 microfiche readers.
The new building was built in 1988 across from the Clayton Home with a free parking lot between the two. The entire upstairs of the new building is microfilm/fiche, finding aids, and readers for the materials.
Downstairs are where everything EXCEPT Family Histories are housed. The Family History collection is housed in the Clayton House. To clarify what I just said, “Family History” being a book written by a family member that may or may not have references listed in it. These are good starting points, but I try to verify everything I find in a family history.
The Houston Public Library began its genealogy collection in 1921, and since that time it has grown to become one of the best in the United States. It is in the top ten research facilities in the nation and hopes to move into the top three, with the help of a non-profit support group – Clayton Library Friends.
The Clayton Library Friends have donated monies for furniture, equipment, and materials to the center. They are the heart of the library. Through their selfless efforts, the collection has grown to over 70,000 books, and 90,000 items of microfilm and fiche, numerous maps, finding aids, and family history papers.
Currently the center has a complete federal census collection. All available microfilm for the federal census for the years 1790-1920 are there for viewing, as well as all the available Soundex and Miracode films for the census years 1880-1920.
As most researchers know, the majority of the 1890 census burned, but the fragments of it that survived are also here for perusal. To supplement the missing records, view the 1890 Veteran and Widow Schedules. This part of the census didn’t burn, but fills a little of the gap.
Clayton has a collection of over 300 CD-Roms for viewing as well. The librarians are very helpful, especially to new researchers. Do not be afraid to ask them questions. That’s what they are there for. In addition to the librarians, there are volunteers waiting to help find reference materials, and point you in the right direction.
The Clayton Library is located at 5300 Caroline in the Museum district, just north of the Medical center. The hours are Mon-Wed 9am-9pm, Thu-Sat 9am-5pm and is closed on Sunday. It is closed on holidays as well. The phone number is (713) 284-1999, and the URL for the Clayton Library is: http://www.hpl.lib.tx.us/clayton/
If you’re interested in family history research, and are in the area, drop by. The library website has a searchable catalog, so you can get an idea of the materials you might wish to view before you even get there. Good Hunting!
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
janetaba
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Member: Janet Tabares
Location: Sugar Land, Texas
Reviews written: 88
Trusted by: 38 members
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