Determining a building's construction date can be a surprisingly complex task, depending on the age and location of the structure. However, with a systematic approach and the right resources, you can uncover this historical information. This guide will walk you through several effective methods, from simple online searches to more in-depth archival research.
Online Resources: Your First Stop
The internet offers a wealth of readily accessible information. Begin your search with these online tools:
County Assessor's Website:
This is often the best place to start. Most county assessor's offices maintain detailed databases of property records, including the year a building was constructed. Simply search using the building's address. The information provided may include the construction date, but also details on renovations and additions.
Historical Maps & Aerial Imagery:
Websites like Google Earth, Bing Maps, and historical map archives (like the Library of Congress) can provide valuable visual clues. By comparing historical aerial imagery, you might see when the building first appeared. This method is especially effective for older buildings.
Local Historical Societies & Genealogy Websites:
Local historical societies often possess extensive archives of local building records, photographs, and news clippings. Genealogy websites can also be helpful, as they often contain property records and historical documents linked to building ownership.
Offline Research: Delving Deeper
If online resources fail to yield results, it's time to explore offline avenues:
City or County Archives:
These archives contain detailed building permits, blueprints, and other historical documents. These documents provide the most accurate construction dates, although accessing them may require some research and possibly a small fee.
Local Libraries & Historical Societies:
These institutions hold valuable local histories, newspapers, and other resources that may contain references to your building's construction. Don't underestimate the power of local knowledge!
Surveyor's Records:
Surveyors often keep detailed records of property lines and building measurements. These records may contain information about the building's construction, especially if it was a significant structure at the time.
Building Permits and Inspection Records:
Often a treasure trove of information, obtaining old building permits may provide the precise construction date along with details of the construction process itself.
Advanced Techniques:
For particularly challenging cases, consider these advanced approaches:
Architectural Style Analysis:
A knowledgeable architect or architectural historian can sometimes estimate the construction date based on the building's architectural style, materials, and design elements. This method relies on expertise and is more suitable for older buildings with distinctive architectural features.
Material Analysis:
Testing building materials (e.g., bricks, wood) can sometimes reveal their age through techniques like radiocarbon dating. However, this is an expensive and specialized method and typically not necessary for most investigations.
Tips for Success:
- Be Specific: The more precise the address or property information you provide, the better your chances of finding the desired information.
- Be Persistent: Searching for a building's construction date can sometimes be time-consuming. Don't get discouraged if you don't find the answer immediately.
- Network: Connect with local historians, librarians, and other knowledgeable individuals. Their insights and assistance can be invaluable.
By combining online and offline research methods, you significantly increase your chances of successfully identifying the construction date of any building. Remember to approach your research systematically, exploring each resource thoroughly. Good luck!
