A word on research....

[Anonymous]

Target your research to what you want to find...
Search only in the timeframe of what you are looking for....
If an index is available of a historical resource(ie newspaper, local history book,) use it and look for key works. ie fair, picnic, camp, etc..
Make long and copious notes about what you have found. Try to get muliple sources when possible, then find a period map and make logical assumptions about where said activity took place.
If all else fails get a period newspaper on microfilm and brouse it until you come across something.

 

[Anonymous]

Watch what building permits are being issued in your town. Chances are something is going to be torn down or there is some ground going to be covered up that the owner would let you detect.
Watch for houses being taken by the County for taxes. In my County when the County takes land for taxes, they don't mind if you detect it. (you kinda own a part of it) <img src="/metal/html/smile.gif" border=0 width=15 height=15 alt="">
If you're wondering about a particular site, ask a Title Insurance Agent. They have a record of all the land in the County from Patent to present. (at least in my state). Some of them are really good people.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks Andrew and Glenn for the info on research. HH AF