Are you curious about the history of a property you're interested in? Unraveling the mysteries and stories behind a house can be an exciting adventure. Whether you're a history buff or just intrigued by the secrets hidden within the walls, there are numerous online resources that can help you dig deep and discover the fascinating past of a property. In this article, we'll explore 16 ways to find the history of a property online, uncovering the stories of the people who once called it home.
The National Register of Historic Places
If the property you're interested in is a historic home, then the National Register of Historic Places is an excellent starting point. This program, managed by the National Park Service, records properties of historical significance. Their website provides a research page where you can search for properties, a downloadable spreadsheet with comprehensive information, and a GIS map for further exploration. Keep in mind that if a property doesn't appear on the National Register, it's still worth checking the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) for additional records. Some states maintain their own official lists of historic and cultural resources, so you may need to look in two places.
Census Records
To delve into the lives of the people who once inhabited the property, census records can provide valuable insights. These records, which can be accessed online, offer a treasure trove of genealogy-rich information. From names and relationships to birth years and birthplaces, census records can help piece together the past. However, it's important to note that older census records may have limited detail, as some were destroyed in a fire in 1921. Nevertheless, they still serve as a vital foundation for your research.
FamilySearch.org
While most people associate FamilySearch.org with tracing their family tree, it can also be an invaluable resource for exploring the demographic history of a neighborhood or house. By searching their location list, you can uncover historical records related to your property's past. Although you may not find the exact property, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the area's ethnic, political, and religious groups, as well as business records, occupations, and population insights. If you have the names of previous owners, you can even find additional information about the house based on their records.
Caption: A HomeLight infographic on how to find the history of a property online.
Cyndi's List
Cyndi's List is a comprehensive index of genealogical databases on the internet. Their House & Building Histories section offers several options to discover a home's records. You can explore the Locality Specific and General resources, and if those don't yield results, Cyndi's List will direct you to professionals, volunteers, and other research services that can help you gather information on your property. If you're short on time but have a budget, hiring someone to assist in your research can be a worthwhile investment.
Land Entry Records
To trace the transactional history of a property and uncover details about past owners, land entry records are invaluable. These records document the transfer of land from the government to private hands. While the level of detail varies depending on the time period, even the most basic entry provides essential information that can be used in conjunction with other resources. A detailed land entry record can reveal intriguing facts such as names, titles, land use issues, age, place of birth, citizenship, military service, literacy, and economic status. Although land entry records are not available online, you can request the information remotely by filling out a form.
Title Search
If you prefer a digital deep dive into the title history of a property, online title search companies like Title Search Direct can be a valuable resource. These reports provide comprehensive information beyond what most people uncover manually. By examining the title history, you can ensure a clean title without any outstanding tax liens, mortgages, or other issues. However, it's essential to watch out for red flags such as missing or unknown heirs, technical defects on earlier deeds, unknown liens, and fraudulent deeds. If you're purchasing a property, consult with a real estate attorney to ensure a smooth and secure transaction.
Uncovering the history of a property online opens a window into the past and brings the stories of the people who lived there back to life. By utilizing these 16 methods, you can embark on an exciting journey of exploration and discovery. So why wait? Start digging into the mysteries today, and unlock the secrets hidden within the walls of the property you're interested in.
