Visit the Park Archives and Records Center website >>
Itching to see maps and engineering drawings from the Presidio's military days? Want to know more about the architecture and history of Alcatraz Island? Looking for information about movies that have been filmed within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area? You can find all this and much more at the Park Archives and Records Center (PARC), located at 667 McDowell Avenue, a former stable for the cavalry dating from 1914.
Managed by the National Park Service, the Park Archives and Records Center houses, preserves, and provides public access to more than five million documents, historic images, artifacts, objects, and other records associated with the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The contents of this archival collection span from the time of Spanish exploration and colonization of San Francisco to the present day, including a large collection of Presidio Army Records.
Although you don't have to be a formal researcher to explore the archives, visitors are asked to fill out a Researcher Registration Form, which confirms that you agree to all regulations for using the archives and special collections. Also note that materials cannot leave the premises, but you can request for some materials to be photocopied or scanned by PARC staff.
Make an Appointment
The Park Archives and Records Center has regular walk-in research hours for the public on Mondays from 1 to 4 pm and Thursdays from 10 am to 1 pm, except on federal holidays. To visit the Park Archives and Records Center, make an individual appointment by calling (415) 561-2808. Parking is available on site, and the building is just a short walk away from Crissy Field.
