Aurora Public Library > Research & Homework Help > Genealogy and Local History House Histories

Genealogy and Local History
House Histories

Other Sources for House History Information

City of Aurora Historical Preservation Commission

Their collections include the Sanborn Maps, and building permits.

The Sanborn Maps were compiled by the Sanborn Company for fire insurance purposes. The local Historical Preservation Commission has these maps from 1885-1907, and they can help to determine the size and shape of a building through time. Some of the maps are color-coded to give an indication of the building materials.

Local building permits date back to 1913, and also help to track changes made to the original structure over time.

City of Aurora Water and Sewer Department

649 S. River
Aurora, Illinois 60506
(630) 256-3710

The department’s records indicate when the house was connected to the city water lines. Their records may tell what materials were used to make the connection, and often let you know the name of the plumber who did the original tap.