The Archives, as part of the Chancery Office, promotes an understanding of the history and activities of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee as reflected in the records and artifacts of the archdiocese and related entities. The Archives staff acquires, preserves, organizes, and makes these records and artifacts available to researchers. These records include materials from archdiocesan offices as well as from some parishes. Information about important Catholic figures and societies beyond the parish level also is maintained by the Archives Office.

The Archives is located on the first floor of the Archbishop Cousins Catholic Center, but the work of its staff members travels far beyond their office walls. Tim and Mary interact with parish staff members, central office employees, scholars, people with genealogical inquiries, and many others who request their services.

Requests for information are completed as quickly as possible, and if the information cannot be obtained from the Archives Office, Tim and Mary will do their best to route the request to the appropriate person or diocese or to find the information from alternative sources.

The Archives Office staff maintains good relations with archdiocesan parishes. When a parish is closed or merged, staff members help preserve each parish’s history and the documents that supported its existence. When a parish closes or merges, the Archives staff will offer their services to aid the preservation of files for the parish. Information on closed parishes from as early as 1839 can be found in the Archives.

Although each parish is responsible for maintaining its own archives while in existence, the Archives offers records management consulting services to parishes. Staff members advise parish representatives what records to keep or discard and how to manage and preserve their files efficiently.

Not only does the Archives staff interact with central office and parish staff members, but a steady stream of people also contact staff members with research questions. These inquiries include questions regarding the histories of parishes, how to locate sacramental records, photographs of church property, and many more. The Archives has a closed stack policy, which reflects the idea that the materials the office maintains are one of a kind and need to be secured and protected to the best of their ability.

The cataloging records of the Archives Office are available on the internet through the Salzmann Library and are fully searchable. Directions on how to search this catalog are available at this link. Many people who contact the Archives Office are seeking assistance with genealogical inquiries. A nominal donation is requested for this service. More information on genealogical research can be obtained here.

In addition to Tim Cary and Mary Jaques, six volunteers work in the Archives on a weekly basis and contribute to the success of the office.

Tim earned a master’s degree in history and library science from the University of Iowa. He also has an undergraduate degree in history from Louisiana State University. Before coming to the Archdiocese of Milwaukee in 1990, he worked in the archives departments of three major universities.

Mary earned a master's degree in library science and information at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and also has a master's degree in theology from Marquette University. Mary joined the Archives staff in 1998. She also worked in the Marquette libraries for 12 years.

The combined efforts of Tim Cary and Mary Jaques, along with the hard work of their volunteers, contribute to the ongoing success and functionality of the Archives. From genealogical inquiries and sacramental records research to records management consulting and preserving files, the Archdiocese of Milwaukee Archives staff provides valuable information to people throughout southeastern Wisconsin.