We prefer all genealogy questions be submitted in writing, whether by mail, e-mail, or fax, rather than by telephone. This reduces the opportunity for error in orally transcribing names, dates, and places and allows staff to devote their entire attention to a question.

The following fees will be charged for staff research regarding local history or genealogy questions:

  • Charges for inquiries for non-Charleston County residents are 50 cents per page plus a $5 service fee, per question.
  • Charges for inquiries for Charleston County residents are 10 cents per page for black and white documents and 25 cents per page for color documents plus a $1 for postage, if items are mailed to the requestor.
  • Please do not send money or pay in advance. The research will be completed and the requestor will be sent a bill if the work does not exceed a total of $25 for all copy charges, service fees and postage. If staff anticipates the total fee will exceed $25, an estimate will be sent to the requester to get permission to proceed before the research is done.
  • Copy fees apply whether the documents are delivered electronically by email or sent by mail.
  • S.C. History Room staff will respond as soon as possible. If you have not received a reply within two weeks, please send an email to [email protected].
  • For more information on the types of questions we can answer, click here.

NOTE: By sending a question, you acknowledge and agree to pay any costs incurred in doing this research as outlined above.