Once you have found a soldier's name in the database, click on the linked name in the "Name" column to view the full record for that soldier. Note the name, military unit or other information, year, box and folder number. If the record includes the term "filed with", note that name as well. Your soldier's information will be found in the box and folder listed under that person's name.

The contents of the original solders' files have not been digitized and are, thus, not available on the internet.

To read the files in person or to request a copies, contact the Manuscripts and Archives Division. Please note that due to the fragile condition of the files, reproduction requests will be reviewed on a case by case basis.

Research Beyond the Database

Once you have obtained the file, examine the documents for clues that may lead you to other records with information concerning the inquiry. The documents in these files can be correlated by USSC letterhead, application number and /or date, to the various journals, registers or special index volumes created by each office to record applications for information. Please see Using the Inquiry Files and The Application Process and Recordkeeping Practices, 1862-1865 for further detail.