How to Discover the History of Your Home Online and in Person
Discovering the history of your home can be a fascinating journey, offering insights into the people, events, and changes over time. Follow these steps to find the history of your home, both online and in person.
Online Resources
1. Local Recorder's Office: Visit your local recorder's office to find out who currently owns your property and previous owners. Typically, these offices maintain detailed records and can provide public access to property histories.
2. County Assessor’s Website: In most states, you can access property assessment records online. The assessor's website usually provides a history of periods of tax assessment and details on past sales.
3. Zillow: Zillow is a popular real estate website that can provide information about the history of your property. By entering your address, you can see when the house was built and the number of previous owners.
4. Public Libraries: Local libraries, particularly large ones, may have indexes to Criss-Cross directories. These directories once listed street addresses and the people who lived there, though they are less common now with the internet.
5. County Property Appraiser Website: Check the appraiser's website for your county. This site typically shows the built date of the house and the tax history since it was constructed.
In Person Resources
1. Building Department: Visit your local building department to check permits for upgrades or renovations. These records often contain information on when the property was altered and by whom.
2. City Clerk’s Office: Contact the city clerk’s office for public records of permits and sales. These records can tell you when the house was built or renovated and who owned it during that time.
3. Public Libraries: Use the local studies collection at your library. Books like Criss-Cross directories and street directories can provide addresses and occupant information. Old electoral rolls can show voter registration details, and census returns can date back decades, providing even more history.
4. Historical Societies and Newspapers: Local historical societies or libraries often have old newspapers and records that can help you learn about the previous occupants and the neighborhood history.
Connecting with Neighbors
Another valuable way to find out about the history of your home is by talking to your neighbors. Ask if anyone has lived in the neighborhood long enough to know the previous owners. They might have stories and photos that can provide additional context.
Combining online research with personal inquiries can give you a detailed and comprehensive picture of your home's history, enriching your understanding of the place you call home.