Overview
Pennsylvania's primary political subdivisions consist of counties and municipalities. Types of incorporated municipalities are townships, cities, and boroughs, all of which function within a county.
Most municipal records are administrative in nature, while records of genealogical value usually are found at the county level. In general, county and municipal records are still held by the counties and municipalities.
Resources on county and municipality formation
The following tools will assist in identifying various Pennsylvania counties and municipalities.
- Genealogical Map of the Counties (PDF) - This map depicts how the land of the Commonwealth was acquired over time, as well as how and when the various counties of the state were formed.
- Incorporation Dates for Pennsylvania Municipalities (Department of Internal Affairs, 1965) - This page provides information on the location and creation of Pennsylvania political subdivisions.
- Political Subdivisions Map (PDF)
County and municipal records at the PA State Archives
The State Archives does not have copies of all Pennsylvania county or municipal records, nor can the Archives search or copy all county records. If a local record cannot be located at the Archives, the researcher must visit the county courthouse, county archives, or municipal office to examine the record.
| Finding aid | Digital images |
|---|---|
| Records of County Governments (RG-47) | FamilySearch.org (Select records available) |
| Records of Municipal Governments (RG-48) | FamilySearch.org (Select records available) |
| Digitized County/Municipal Microfilm (onsite) | FamilySearch.org (Select records available free with free account) |
