A Columbian reader asks how to find deeds in a courthouse. Deeds are a public record, and the office that handles them sees quite a bit of foot traffic. The clerks are usually efficient and used to dealing with the public. Searching for deeds is an excellent way to learn how to research in a courthouse.

Almost every courthouse has a security system that you have to pass through. Generally, I just arrive with a notepad and a pencil, along with a small purse.

The security systems seem to be placed where there are no directional signs. I usually follow the crowd for a bit, and look at the signs on the offices. The key word is "recording", so I look for a sign that says recorders office or recording.

Tell the clerk you want to see the deed indexes for a particular span of time, like 1900-1920. (Avoid the impulse to tell the clerk about your genealogy.)

When the clerk asks if you want to see the grantor-grantee indexes (or the direct-indirect index), say that you want to see both. The grantor (or direct) index lists the names of the people who sold property. The grantee (or indirect) index lists the names of people who bought property. Usually, you want to start with the grantee (or indirect) index to find when your ancestor first purchased land. Then, you want to use the grantor (or direct) index to see when the property was sold.

Many of the indexes have been microfilmed. In some courthouses, you will use the original volumes. Be prepared to handle heavy, dirty books. Wear clothes that can be laundered.

The indexes are seldom in perfect alphabetical order. They may be merely divided into 26 sections, one for each alphabet letter. Sometimes, they are further divided within each letter. Be prepared for a several hour visit with the indexes.

After about half an hour of scanning through the indexes, stop and look around the room. What else is on the shelves? Sometimes you can find "Miscellaneous" records. This is often where copies of veteran's discharge records are filed. You may see old birth and death books. Other good genealogical sources are the mortgage indexes and books, old tax books, marriage indexes and records.

Back to the deed indexes. When you find your ancestor's name in an index, copy everything for that entry, and go back to the clerk. Ask where is the deed. Follow the clerk's guidance, and get the deed that your ancestor took to the courthouse to be recorded.

© 2002

Connie Lenzen, CG