Using Land Records to Discover Your Genealogy

A vastly underused resource, land records are a wonderful source for both beginning and advanced genealogists. This article will offer tips on the type of information that can be found in land records as well as tips on how to locate land records.

The difference between genealogy and family history lies in how much we know about our ancestors. Whereas a genealogy will give names, dates, places, and relationships, a family history will share stories, triumphs, failures, struggles, and who our ancestors really were. The beauty of land records is that they offer both details for a genealogy as well as details of the family history. Of course, not every record will offer gems of genealogical discovery.

What the Land Records Reveal

The basics: No matter what else might or might not be included in a land record, you will always be able to pinpoint where your ancestor was at the given time. If your great grandfather purchased land in Missouri in 1890, even if he was purchasing it for someone else, you'll know that he was in Missouri in 1890 to at least sign the papers. In that aspect, land records can be excellent substitutes for census records. And not only will you know where he was in Missouri, but you'll be able to know the exact plot of land he purchased or sold, how many acres it was, and how much it cost.

Relationships: Some land purchases were between two or more people; a person may have purchased land with someone he knew, or he may have bought land from someone he knew. Although the record may not explicitly state a relationship, some type of connection is obvious (especially when people buy land together). For example, as I was researching land records for an ancestor of mine, Helen Terry, I found that she had bought land with someone named Jane Terry. No relationship was specified, but the probability of these women being related is great. This gives a great lead on where to search next.