Our Archives

The Naval Institute is home to a special library, housing multiple resources in the areas of interest for naval enthusiasts, historians, authors and students. In addition to over 6000 books, we house complete sets of Proceedings and Naval History magazines and the only known complete collection of Our Navy magazine which was purchased from James Fahey when he discontinued publishing.

The Naval Institute Archives features two priceless, highly popular resources:

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I help preserve the Naval Institute's photo collection?

Funds raised allow the U.S. Naval Institute to undertake preservation projects too costly to accomplish with operating funds alone. Tax-deductible gifts to the Photo Archive are used to protect the original photo images and to digitize them so they may be more widely shared. Click here to make a gift.

How do I know what you have to offer if I do not see it in the online galleries?

Approximately 15,000 images are available onlne. However, our collection contains more than 450,000 images from the Civil War to the present.

If you cannot find the photograph you would like to order in our online photo catalog, please send an email to [email protected] or call (410) 295-1022 to speak with our photo archivist.

What size are the photographs?

Photo prints can come in a variety of sizes and are dependent on the aspect ratio of the original image. Framed and fine art photos photos can be cropped to 8" x 10" to sizes of 40” by 80”.

Can I order a digital image from the U.S. Naval Institute?

The "Digital" image tab on the U.S. Naval Institute’s photo site is intended for commercial use, and allows you to start a conversation with our photo archivist, get a price established for your project, and order the image to your specifications.

Photographic prints are intended for personal use.

How long does it take to process a photo order?

You should receive your print in 7-10 days.

How do I order a photograph that is not found in your online galleries?

To order a photograph that is not displayed in our online galleries, please send an email to [email protected] or call (410) 295-1022 to speak with our photo archivist.