Should I digitize family letters and photographs first?

Digitizing fragile papers and snapshots before repeated handling is usually the right first step. We scan at archival quality, organize files with simple finding aids, and return originals with handling notes.

What archival supplies do families need at home?

Acid-free folders, support boards, and a stable environment matter more than expensive boxes. After a project, we give plain-language guidance for humid climates and long-term home storage.

Can you work from a box of papers when we do not know what matters?

Yes. Many projects start with an inherited box. We inventory what you have, stabilize fragile items, digitize key pieces, and explain which documents tie to federal military service.

Family Archive Preservation

What we handle

We work with home-front papers and service-related keepsakes: correspondence, snapshots, official forms, unit newspapers, and display items families want documented before storage or inheritance. Materials stay confidential in your project folder unless you decide otherwise.

How we preserve

We use archival handling practices for family collections: support for loose sheets, acid-free folders when needed, no pen on original documents, and digitization before moving or shipping items. Humid climates, including HawaiÊ»i and the Gulf Coast, get plain-language home storage guidance after the project.

We address condition issues frankly. Some items need conservation beyond our shop. When that happens, we say so and suggest next steps so nothing is damaged further.

Digitization and finding aids

Scans come organized with simple finding aids: what each file is, whom it relates to, and dates when known. Your family receives a structured digital package to share or hand down. Originals return with handling notes.

Research and preservation together

Many projects combine preservation with military records research. We can start from a box of papers, a DD-214 and a name, or medals without paperwork. Intake helps us outline the work and send a written quote.

Common questions

Should I digitize family letters and photographs first?: Digitizing fragile papers and snapshots before repeated handling is usually the right first step. We scan at archival quality, organize files with simple finding aids, and return originals with handling notes.
What archival supplies do families need at home?: Acid-free folders, support boards, and a stable environment matter more than expensive boxes. After a project, we give plain-language guidance for humid climates and long-term home storage.
Can you work from a box of papers when we do not know what matters?: Yes. Many projects start with an inherited box. We inventory what you have, stabilize fragile items, digitize key pieces, and explain which documents tie to federal military service.

Looking for OMPF or NPRC help too? See our military records research service or how we work with families.

Request a consultation

Tell us what you have inherited and what you hope to preserve.

Begin client intake

Prefer email? Write to ben@militaryheritageworkshop.com.