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Comments
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 9/27/2006 - 3:26pm
How do you go about researching a specific building or lot? I'd like to know the history of a few particular lots in downtown Durham, but don't know where to start.
Submitted by Sven (not verified) on Wed, 9/27/2006 - 5:15pm
Hi
It really depends on what kind of information you'd like to know. The good news is that info (such as deed records and land us records) is increasingly available online.
Generally speaking, 'people' information is best researched through the registrar of deeds (and tracing backwards) or through the old city directories (some of the older ones ~1920-1960 can be searched by address).
Building/lot information has to come from a variety of sources. The 'build date' listed on the tax records is invariably wrong. Current information is available online (go to www.ci.durham.nc.us and look for 'interactive maps of durham' or www.co.durham.nc.us and look for tax records search. Historical information, say for a site without a building generally involves a trip to the library. The Sanborn Fire Insurance maps show the outline of structures from specific periods (back to the 1880s in Durham). Aerial photos are also available in the library archives, and there are several books on the history of Durham as well that may address specific structures.
Best of luck.
Submitted by sara lachenman (not verified) on Wed, 9/27/2006 - 5:19pm
hi sven -
I'm very impressed with your research and your interest in durham's evolution. I'm an architectural historian/preservation consultant, and I'd love to share sources sometime. you've found some amazing photos!
please drop me a line sometime, I'd appreciate it.
Submitted by Sven (not verified) on Wed, 9/27/2006 - 6:40pm
Sara
Thanks so much for your positive feedback - I'm glad that you are enjoying the blog. I checked your website and appreciate your direction. I will drop you a line soon.
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