ARCHIVES
Archivist: Rev. Mr. Jesse Avila
Assistant Archivists: Scott and Adrienne Alston
From the smallest parish to the largest cathedral, ecclesiastical archives are maintained for the preservation and storage of essential papers, such as correspondence, manuscripts, documents, photographs, records, books and donated materials from the laity. Over time, archives can become repositories for artifacts and examples of the artistic-cultural-historical patrimony of a particular jurisdiction. The Bishop of each Diocese appoints a Chancellor who has direct responsibility for the archives. Deacon Jesse Avila is the present Chancellor of The Diocese of Fresno.
The Monsignor James H. Culleton Archival Center in Fresno serves as a repository for materials pertaining to the history of the Diocese of Fresno and its predecessor jurisdictions in central California, dating to about 1865. Included are photocopies of sacramental registers through 1920. The Church certainly has an “… interest in preserving the living good of memory aimed at attracting the attention of God’s People towards its history”. Our Archival Center serves to introduce parishioners to the treasures of their Diocese with a goal of increasing general awareness and enhancing advocacy for our spiritual heritage.
RESEARCH REQUESTS
When seeking sacramental records, such as baptism or marriage, whether for church-related purposes or family genealogy/history, contact your parish church or the parish where the sacrament was administered for a certificate. A fee may be required and staff time may be limited. If further research is required, you may send a letter to:
Diocesan Archives
1550 North Fresno Street
Fresno, California 93703-3788
Please include all necessary information for a response, such as what is sought and why, and how you can be reached by regular mail and telephone. E-mail will be considered only if telephone number and mailing address are included.
Appointments for parish history or anniversary research should begin one year in advance if the planned commemoration. Call the Archives at (559) 488-7499 or write a letter of intent with full information as noted in preceding paragraph.
