Posts in April 15, 2025

An 1874 plat book shows where the J. M. Trautvetter farm was located in section 31 of Walker Township, Hancock County, Illinois. I need to remember when looking at any land ownership maps that they may not be entirely and completely accurate. These maps were compiled from local tax and land records and there is always the chance for an error to occasionally creep in. These books are not legal records, would not be considered proof of ownership, and (from the genealogist’s standpoint) should be used as a springboard to other records–particularly tax and property records to validate ownership. These maps can help in locating nearby schools, churches, cemeteries, and towns, but they are not perfect. A parcel my father owned was shown incorrectly in the plat book […]