* State Archives: This is the most promising starting point. Each state maintained its own educational system and records, so you need to know the specific state where the teacher worked. Contact the state archives of that state, or their equivalent (e.g., a state historical society). Explain what you're looking for – the teacher's name, approximate location, and the 1870s timeframe.
* County or Local Archives: If you know the county or town where the teacher worked, check their local archives or historical societies. These smaller repositories might hold records that haven't been transferred to state-level archives.
* University Archives (especially Normal Schools/Teacher Colleges): Many teacher training colleges existed in the 1870s. Their archives might hold records of graduates and their subsequent certification. If you know where the teacher received their training, check the archives of that institution.
* Family Records: Check with descendants of the teacher. They might possess family papers that include the certificate or at least mention it.
* Online Genealogy Databases: Websites like Ancestry.com, FamilySearch, and MyHeritage sometimes index historical records, including educational certifications. However, coverage is patchy and varies by region.
* Historical Societies (general and local): Broader historical societies (beyond those specifically at the state or county level) might hold collections relevant to education or local history which could include teaching certificates.
Important Considerations:
* Teacher's Name and Location: The more precise information you have (full name, county, even the specific school), the easier your search will be.
* Digitization: Not all historical records have been digitized. Be prepared for in-person research at archives.
* Record Keeping Practices: Record-keeping in the 1870s was less standardized than today. Certificates might be filed under various headings, and their survival isn't guaranteed.
It's crucial to understand that the success of your search depends heavily on the preservation of these documents and their accessibility. Be patient and persistent, and contact archives directly—they are usually very helpful in guiding researchers.