How to Find Land Records by Name
Land records are a critical piece of information for anyone seeking to understand the ownership and history of a property. However, the process of locating these records can be complex and may vary depending on local laws, the modernization of the system, and the specific needs of your research. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of how to find land records by name, including the different government offices involved and the technologies that facilitate the process.
County Courthouses and Recorder of Deeds Offices
In the United States, land records are typically filed at the county level. Most records are kept within the county courthouse, though in larger cities, they may be stored in city records. In counties where a large number of records are kept, there might be a satellite building dedicated to storing and managing these documents. The key office for land records is the Recorder of Deeds, which is an elected position, but the actual record-keeping is often handled by clerks.
Within the Recorder of Deeds office, you can find Grantor/Grantee records, which document the transfer of property from one owner to another. The current owner is typically referred to as the Grantee, while the former owner is the Grantor. If you need to trace the history of a property, you may need to delve into these records, which can provide a detailed lineage of ownership.
Tax Assessors' Offices and GIS Systems
Another important office to visit is the Office of the Tax Assessor. These offices maintain detailed maps and parcel descriptions for every location within the county. This information is recorded in databases or index cards and may also be available on microfiche. Depending on the area and the needs, some of this information may be accessible online via a computer.
Starting in the mid-1980s, there was a significant push for Geographic Information Systems (GIS). These systems aim to consolidate all land information into a single, convenient database. Over time, older records have been digitized and incorporated into GIS, which also includes other data such as underground utilities, sewer systems, and more. In many places, the system of choice is ArcGIS, though you may find similar systems used in other locations. When searching for these resources, look for locations associated with GIS.
Challenges in the System
One limitation of the GIS system is the lack of historical references. As a surveyor, I often need to see the evolution of properties, not just their current descriptions. Understanding how a property came to be can be crucial for resolving disputes. Unfortunately, the GIS system has not been comprehensive in this regard in my experience.
For more detailed historical records, you may need to consult the Grantor/Grantee records or visit the Recorders office. The clerks there can provide invaluable assistance in tracing the history of a property. They can show you the historical context and provide the necessary information to complete your research.
Personal Experience
My personal experience of this process can illustrate the complexity and depth of research required. In a county where a large-scale project encompassed about a hundred acres of rural land, I was able to trace the original grant from William Penn's grandson, Springett, to the tract originally known as Springettsbury Manor. This is significant because it was the location of York City and surrounding parts of York County, PA.
This journey through history was a real surveying milestone for me, highlighting the importance of thorough and detailed research in understanding the true history of a property. Whether you're a researcher, an investor, or simply curious about the land you own or are interested in, understanding the process of finding land records by name is essential.