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Land Records
The New York State Archives holds numerous records documenting title to real property in New York. The records range in date from the Dutch colonial period to the near present. Practically all of the records dating after the early nineteenth century concern real property acquired or disposed by the State of New York. However, many of the earlier records document conveyances of real property from colonial authorities to private individuals and between private persons.
The State Archives holds deeds to the state for construction of public buildings and facilities; deeds and cessions to the United States; land appropriations for canals and other public purposes; and permits, easements, and releases to and from the state. The Archives also holds numerous records relating to the survey and sale of lands of the colony and state.
Finding aids provide detailed information about individual record series held by the State Archives. Follow this link to read descriptions of record series that contain information regarding conveyance of and title to real property in New York Colony and State.
This pathfinder will direct you to the most useful sources for real property records (deeds and mortgages for private properties).
These indexes include individual names appearing in selected records series held by the New York State Archives. The following indexes contain information specific to land records.
- New York State Engineer and Surveyor Records of Surveys and Maps of State Lands
- New York State Department of State Military Patents
This publication contains brief descriptions of land title records and related records in the Archives. also describes types of deeds of conveyance and the statutes that pertain to recording of the same; and court actions and proceedings affecting title to real property.
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