The post regarding where to find where ancestors lived was timely.
While that was being posted, I was in Orange Co. (from Minnesota) finding
my ancestral locations.
Here's what I found:
The deed books will give all land transactions that occured between
individuals and the initial grants (land purchased from the government for
the first time). Also listed will be a legal description of the land. That
descriprion can then be taken to plat maps where the exact location of the
property, with current landmarks, is shown.
I was able to locate my Bolling, Belcher, and Cox family lands, determine
when the properties were bought and sold, and in most cases determine what
amount was paid and what amount the properties were sold for. This from 175
years ago!
At the courthouse annex, I ran into several surveyors who also suggested
that the original log cabins may well still be on the lands. They will have
been added to, and re-sided, but often are still there, but hidden.
The courthouse sells copies of the Orange County map for $3.00. This map
shows all the county roads and many of the cemeteries. I was able to pencil
in on my map copy where my ancestors lived, and when they lived there. The
map is an incredible resource.
Last, but first in my mind, is the kindness and helpfulness of EVERYONE who
works in the Orange County courthouse. They are a credit to the community,
and add substance to the term "Hoosier Hospitality".
Dennis McCormick