How to Trace the History of a House
House is a common word used when talking about the physical structure of a dwelling or referring to a place where someone lives and belongs. A house is usually thought to be a permanent or long-term home, whereas a tent or camp is often considered a temporary home. A house may also refer to a structure that is considered an example of historic architecture or a landmark in a community. In a house, people are often able to express their own unique personalities and lifestyles.
People who are interested in learning more about the history of their houses can use a variety of research strategies. The best place to start is at the local level, where records relating to specific buildings and properties are more likely to exist. In most cases, however, it is not possible to trace the history of a house through one source, and different archives will need to be visited in order to obtain a full picture of what has gone before.
For instance, a person looking for information about the history of a house in the United States can begin by searching local archives, such as the library of Congress or a town or city archive. Various primary sources can help to identify those who lived in a house, including deeds, directories, maps and manuscripts. Secondary sources that provide context for this kind of research include photographs, floor plans and books on local history.
When researching the history of a house, it is important to keep detailed records of where and when information has been obtained. This is especially important for those who are tracing the history of a property that they intend to purchase or live in, because some records may not be available after the house changes hands. A good idea is to work backwards, starting with the current owner and working through the previous owners in a chronological fashion.
In the United States, it is also possible to research a house’s history through newspapers. Social columns can reveal details about events that took place at a particular house, and newspaper announcements can often be traced to the exact property in question. In addition, many towns have historic preservation offices or councils, and these organizations can often provide copies of old photos and historical maps pertaining to a house or neighborhood.
A person who wants to learn more about the history of their own house can also talk to the current owners, as they will often be willing to share their knowledge. In some cases, they may even be able to show them around the house itself, which can give a very personal insight into how the house was built and what life was like in it during earlier times. A person can also be their own archaeologist by scouring the yard for clues that might tell them more about a house’s past, such as exposed rafters in the attic or bricks of different sizes in the basement.