How to research the history of your place

[Vampire07]

 
First, it will be necessary to determine who the previous occupants were. Second, it will be necessary to find out as much as possible about them. To accomplish those goals, assistance from others will probably be needed. In some instances, simply explaining that you're interested in learning more about the history of your home, without necessarily specifying that it's related to a suspected haunting, will elicit better cooperation from those you ask for information. Here are some things you can do to conduct research on your own;

 
 
Inspect the property

Look at the building and property for obvious changes and signs of previous buildings, foundations, walls, roadways, paths, vegetation, fences, and other features. If significant changes have been made, it could be possible to locate those involved with their construction or removal;

The architect

The contractor

Supply companies

Specialty materials shops



Search the property

Look for any, papers, documents, receipts, inspection records, labels, writing, and other records, even such things as labels on water heaters or fuse boxes can provide information.



Contact the people you know

Anyone involved in the sale of your property. Ask if any of them can assist you with obtaining an "ABSTRACT OF TITLE". This will list the names and dates of previous ownership.

The realtor

The attorney

The bank

The insurance company



Contact people who might know

Neighbors

Nearby businesses

Mail carrier

Other package carriers

Meter-readers

Food and beverage delivery companies


Internet searches by street, city, and state name, by city name and keywords, or by city name and proper names.



Contact people who might be able to help you find out

Local libraries may have a local history section or listing of local obituaries.

Local historical society may have general information about the area.

Genealogical web-sites or societies may have names, dates, burial locations, family relationships, etc.

Churches and mortuaries

Fraternal organizations

Cemetery marker information

Private research companies

Private investigators

Newspaper research divisions

City/ County/ State/ Federal records archives

Area maps

Building inspections and permits

Office of the judge of probate, town hall, and county courthouse

Specialized corporate libraries

Tax assessor, census, and military records



Conducting research can be a time consuming and expensive project. Others may direct you to areas where some types of information can be found, but they aren't likely to do the work for you. Sometimes persistence pays off. Good Luck!