Historical Research

Our libraries are pleased to offer an extensive collection of historical, local records & resources. For information from a specific location, contact your library or fill out a research request for more help.

Local History Collections

  • Microfilm

    Local newspapers on microfilm dating back to the late 19th century, including the Venango Spectator, the Pithole Record, the Blizzard, the Franklin News Herald, the Derrick, & more.

  • Cemetery Records

    Maps & records of surrounding local cemeteries.

  • Photos & Yearbooks

    Extensive collections of photos & postcards from local areas, as well as over a century of yearbooks from area schools.

  • Census Records

    U.S. Census records dating back to the late 18th century.

  • City Directories

    Listings of residents, streets & businesses from local areas dating back to the late 19th century.

  • History Rooms

    Explore the historical documents & artifacts in the PA Room at Franklin Public Library & the Heritage Room at Oil City Library. Available by appointment only.

  • Maps & Atlases

    Extensive collections of historical documents, including oil & gas field maps, city maps, topographical atlases, property line maps, & more.

  • Family Histories

    Bound & unbound histories of local families, some including ancestral pedigree charts.

  • Local Titles

    Enjoy a variety of specifically curated title collections, such as the Pennsylvania shelves or Oil Books.

Latest on the Hidden Heritage Blog
  • Oil City Boat Club
    Oil City Boat Club

    Financial success and a keen interest in finding a recreational outlet prompted a group of Oil City men to organize a social club that has flourished for more than a century. In June 1887, a dozen Oil City businessmen met…

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  • Early Theaters
    Early Theaters

    Oil City boasted several theaters in its early history. Patrons could enjoy a wide variety of vaudeville acts, musical performances and moving pictures in a prosperous community that touted its cultural offerings. The theater spaces ranged from leased floors in…

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Newspaper Archive is a great resource for historical & genealogical information. A compilation of newspapers from Pennsylvania include access to articles from as early as the 1600’s up to modern times. Local historic newspapers include “The Blizzard”, “The Derrick” & “Oil City Register”.

Access Now

Need some assistance with your research? All ORLA locations offer Research Request services at a charge of $5.00 per request. Research Requests typically take 1-2 weeks or less & payment is required before the research can be completed. Research findings will be provided to the requester upon discovery. Fill out a request below to get started. 

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