Determining the age of a building can be a fascinating journey into local history, crucial for renovations, or simply satisfying curiosity. But how do you actually find out? This guide outlines several methods, from simple online searches to in-depth historical research.
Quick & Easy Methods: Your First Steps
Before diving into archival research, start with these readily accessible resources:
1. Online Property Records:
This is often the easiest starting point. Most municipalities maintain online databases of property records. Search using the building's address. These records often include:
- Construction date: This is the most straightforward way to find the building's age.
- Building permits: These documents detail the construction process and can provide valuable information.
- Previous owners: This information can help you trace the building's history further.
Keyword: Property records, building permits, construction date, online property search, assessment records.
2. Google Search & Google Maps:
A simple Google search of the address combined with terms like "building history," "architectural history," or "historical records" can yield surprising results. Google Maps sometimes includes historical imagery, showing the building's evolution over time.
Keyword: Google Maps historical imagery, historical records, building history search
3. Local Historical Societies & Libraries:
These invaluable resources often house detailed local records, including building permits, photographs, maps, and even newspaper articles discussing the building's construction or significant events in its history. Don't underestimate the power of a friendly librarian or historical society member; they're often the keepers of local knowledge.
Keyword: Local historical society, local library archives, historical records
Deeper Dive: When Simple Methods Fail
If your initial searches come up empty, consider these more advanced strategies:
4. County Assessor's Office:
The county assessor's office maintains detailed property assessment records, which often include construction dates or other relevant information. They might have access to records not available online.
Keyword: County assessor, property assessment records, tax assessment
5. City Planning Department:
City planning departments keep records of building permits, zoning changes, and other documents related to building construction and development. They can be an excellent source of detailed information.
Keyword: City planning department, building permits, zoning records
6. Architectural Styles:
If you can identify the building's architectural style, you can narrow down the possible construction date. Researching common architectural styles of specific eras can help you estimate the building's age.
Keyword: Architectural styles, building design, architectural history
7. Sanborn Maps:
These detailed fire insurance maps from the late 19th and early 20th centuries often show the size, shape, and construction of buildings. They're a valuable resource for researching older buildings. Many libraries and historical societies have collections of Sanborn maps.
Keyword: Sanborn maps, fire insurance maps, historical maps
Analyzing Clues Within the Building:
Sometimes, the building itself holds clues to its age:
- Building materials: Certain materials, such as specific types of bricks or lumber, were common during particular eras.
- Plumbing and electrical systems: The type and age of these systems can offer clues.
- Architectural details: Specific styles of moldings, windows, or doors can indicate the building's era.
Keyword: Building materials, plumbing, electrical systems, architectural details
By combining these methods, you’ll significantly increase your chances of uncovering the age of any building. Remember to be patient and persistent—researching the past can sometimes be a treasure hunt!
