LibGuides: House & Building History Research: Overview

Overview

Curious about your house? Who lived there? When was it built? What it used to look like? Chances are, your house is full of stories. Researching the history of a house is a process which can yield fascinating information about the building and people associated with it. Discover your home's untold story with the help of this House History Research Guide.

Getting Started: useful tips for beginning your house history research.
Research the history of the land on which the building is located: discover previous owners, trace physical characteristics of the land over time, learn how the land was used.
Discover information about the building itself: original plans, architect, and changes to the building over time.
Learn about the people who designed the structure as well as the stories of the people that lived there.
Uncover events and activities which occurred in the building.

Research Options

Visit the MNHS Library
Original materials, records, and newspapers on microfilm are available on site and reference staff can help with research.
MNHS Research Services
Order copies of records, articles, or other specific materials from the MNHS collections.
Interlibrary Loan
MNHS loans out most microfilm materials. Contact your local library for more information and assistance with this service.
Online Research
Some items such as newspapers, articles, photos and objects are available online. Look for links within this guide.
Other Libraries
Many books listed in the Secondary Sources page can be borrowed from other libraries.

Related Research Guides & Webpages

Maps at MNHS
A guide to the resources available at the MNHS library.
Family Farm Research
A guide to the resources available at the MNHS library.
Land Records Research
A guide listing the resources available at the MNHS library.
Directories
A guide listing the resources available at the MNHS library.

Guide Author

Jackie Beckey
Reference Librarian

Guide Author

Tracey Baker
Reference Librarian

MNHS Reference Staff

Gale Family Library
Minnesota Historical Society Library

Located on the Second Floor of the Minnesota History Center
345 West Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55102

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Thursday to Saturday: 9am to 4pm
Sunday to Wednesday: Closed

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