Many survive, and for many communities. Nineteenth century Bird's Eye view maps freeze communities at a point in time, and today they give local historians a window in time which, when used with other historical sources, can increase the understanding of a community's history. Contact the historical society in your county of research and inquire if there was a Bird's Eye view map made for that county. Clues to family history can come from the most surprising places. Old newspaper stories detail the escapades of Lori's great-grandmother, a 1920s high society con woman.
Experts add their advice on how to use newspapers to expand family history research.
Donna Potter Phillips has taught genealogy courses through her local community college since 1984. TOP The Genealogy Bulletin is produced by Heritage Quest , retailer, publisher, data provider and America's largest commercial genealogical record archive.