Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I become a member of the American Catholic Historical Society?

When you become a member of the American Catholic Historical Society, in addition to receiving the award-winning academic journal publication of the Society in the mail: you are invited to Society events such as socials, lectures, and meetings; you are  given access to our historical materials housed at the Philadelphia Archdiocesan a Historical Research Center, and you can get access to the online archive of the journal American Catholic Studies.

How do I become a member of the American Catholic Historical Society?

You become a member of the Society by subscribing to American Catholic Studies: The Journal of the American Catholic Historical Society. Call 1-717-632-3535 and ask for subscription services; or send a check, made out to “American Catholic Historical Society,” for $40 (US)/$60 (outside the US) along with your name, address, and email address to: American Catholic Studies, Subscription Services, PO Box 465, Hanover, PA 17331-0465

Can anyone become a member of the American Catholic Historical Society?

Anyone can become a member of the American Catholic Historical Society. Members of the Society come from all faiths and membership has no restrictions concerning race, religion or national origin.

What sorts of events does the American Catholic Historical Society have?

The Society has a calendar of events including monthly educational lectures, and annual socials (in March to honor St. Patrick’s Day, in June a summer garden party, and in December to celebrate Christmas). The American Catholic Historical Society also has its annual fundraiser, the Commodore John Barry Award Dinner at the Union League in November, and a memorial Mass celebrated in honor of deceased members and friends of the Society each spring.

Where do functions of the American Catholic Historical Society occur?

Most functions take place at the House of the Society located near Independence Hall in the historic district of Philadelphia: 263 South Fourth Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106.

How do I access or donate historical materials?

For information concerning our collections or their use contact the Catholic Historical Research Center of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, or call 610-667-2125.

Can I find American Catholic Historical Society materials online?

Some materials including historic papers, newspapers and magazines, and back issues of the Society’s periodical  Records of the American Catholic Historical Society of Philadelphia, are available online at the Villanova Digital Library.

Does the American Catholic Historical Society help with genealogical research?

Family history, including baptism and marriage records, may be found at the Philadelphia Archdiocesan Historical Research Center. Please contact PAHRC directly for assistance with genealogical research.

Is the American Catholic Historical Society hiring?

The American Catholic Historical Society is a non-profit, volunteer organization. We do not have employees.

How do I find out more information about the American Catholic Historical Society?

To keep up with the latest news, stories, events, and featured artifacts follow the ACHS on social media. For other inquiries, please contact the corresponding secretary by e-mail: info@amchs.org