Are you fascinated by the stories that old houses hold? Do you ever wonder about the people who lived there before you? Uncovering the history of a property can be an exciting adventure, and luckily, there are numerous online resources available to help you in your quest. In this article, we will explore 16 ways you can delve into the past and discover the secrets of your home's history.
The National Register of Historic Places
If your property is a historic home, you can start your search with the National Register of Historic Places. This program, run by the National Park Service, records properties of historical significance. The National Register of Historic Places has a research page where you can search for properties and download a spreadsheet with comprehensive information. Additionally, their website features a GIS map that you can use to explore further. Remember, if you don't find your property listed here, there's still a chance it holds historical value. Check the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) for more information.
Census Records
Census records are an invaluable resource for discovering the people who once called your property home. These records can provide a wealth of information, including names, relationships between residents, birth years, marital status, and birthplaces. While older census records may be less detailed, they can still offer valuable insights into the past. Unfortunately, the 1890 census records were destroyed in a fire, so you won't find information from that period.
FamilySearch.org
Most people know FamilySearch.org as a genealogy resource, but it can also help you uncover the demographic history of a neighborhood or house. By searching their location list and historical records, you can gain insight into the ethnic, political, or religious groups that once inhabited the area. If you have the names of previous owners, you can search for them in the database and find additional information about your house's history. For example, knowing that the previous owner was a farmer can indicate that the neighboring houses are newer, as the surrounding land was likely farmland at the time.
Cyndi's List
Cyndi's List is a comprehensive index of genealogical databases online, and their House & Building Histories section offers several options for finding your property's records. Start by checking the Locality Specific and General resources. If you can't find anything specific to your house, browse through the Professionals, Volunteers, and Other Research Services section for services that can provide extensive information. If time is a constraint, hiring a professional to conduct the research can be a great option.
Land Entry Records
Land entry records provide the transactional history of a property and details about the buyer. These records document the transfer of land ownership from the government to private individuals. While the level of detail varies depending on the time period, a fully embellished land entry record can reveal the names of previous owners, land use issues, age, place of birth, citizenship, military service, literacy, and economic status. Although you can't view these records online, you can request the information by filling out a form and choosing a format such as a paper document, electronic file, or CD/DVD.
Title Search
If you prefer to avoid a trip to the county office, online companies like Title Search Direct offer convenient digital title searches for a small fee. These reports provide a comprehensive look into the title history of a property, delving deeper than most individuals have the time or resources to do manually. When examining the report, be on the lookout for red flags such as missing seller names, unknown or missing heirs, technical defects on earlier deeds, unknown liens, and fraudulent deeds. If you're planning to buy a property, it's crucial to ensure that you have a "clean title" without any outstanding tax liens, mortgages, or other issues.
By utilizing these 16 methods, you can uncover the hidden stories of your property and gain a deeper understanding of its past. So grab your detective hat and start exploring the fascinating history right at your doorstep!
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice.