The Franciscan Province of the Sacred Heart Archives was designated the official repository for records generated by the Friars of the Province as stated in the decree of the General Definitorium on April 26, 1879. The decree was carried out at the first Chapter on July 2, 1879, when the first prelates assumed office.

The purpose of these archives is for the acquisition, retention, arrangement, and description of records, documents, letters, audio-visual materials, diaries, photographs, and memorabilia generated by the Friars of the Province of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. The Archives Staff appraises and retrieves collections within the boundaries of the Sacred Heart Province and provides physical protection of the historical content thus making them accessible to serious researchers.