What Is Fold3?
Fold3 by Ancestry is an online database of military history. You can search for records and stories of service members from U.S. wars. Whether you are building a family tree, studying local history or honoring a veteran, Fold3 can provide details you may not find anywhere else.
What You Can Find on Fold3
Fold3 includes many types of primary sources, such as:
- Service records and unit details
- Draft cards and enlistment papers
- Pension files and benefits records
- War diaries and battlefield reports
- Photos, maps and historical documents
- Memorial pages where families can share their stories
Records vary by year and by person, but searching is fast and simple once you know a few basics (name, state and an estimated year).
Tips to Get Better Search Results
Records vary by year and by person, but searching is fast and simple once you know a few basics (name, state and an estimated year). Try these quick strategies to find the right record faster:
- Type a last name, then add a first name.
- Use quotes for exact names (like “John A Smith”).
- Add a state, county or branch of service.
- Try spelling variations (Smith/Smyth) and use fewer filters at first.
- When you find a record, look for linked pages in the same file.
Make It Personal
By downloading records and images, you start to build a clearer picture of someone’s service activity. Where they served, what they did, when they returned … tells a real story and cements their place in history.
Get Started Today
Fold3 for free with your Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library card.
- Visit our Online Resources page.
- Select Fold3 under the Genealogy heading.
- When prompted, sign in using your library card.
Check out our other genealogy resources on our Local & Family History page.
Need Help?
Our library staff can help you get connected. For support in navigating Fold3 Library Edition, consider making an appointment through our Tech Assistance service.