In the early 20th century, many cities in the United States reconfigured their street grids, resulting in new addresses and sometimes the disappearance of street names. Learning the history of a street address can greatly improve genealogical research results. Here’s how to track these changes.
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Understanding the history of street addresses
Small village.
Most ancestors knew locations based on landmarks, not on a specific name or numeric address given to a home or business.
Street names were often derived from the names of these landmarks. In addition, street names sometimes were based on nationally or locally significant names of founders or historical figures.
In the United States after World War II and with the advent of suburban housing developments, street name “themes” were used. For larger cities, streets and avenues were given numbers or letters such as 25th Avenue or M Street.
When researching a street or road name based on census records, city directories or other records, track the history of not only the street name, but how the municipality managed its street naming and locations, as well numbering of addresses.
Identify the Components: Early addresses often consisted of just a street name with no house number. As towns grew, house numbers and directional indicators (e.g., West, North) were added. Postal codes (zip codes) were introduced in the 1960s.
Legal Records and Notices: Look for legal records or notices for the correct address and street name on a specific date. Diaries and letters might have the old street name due to the habit of using older names.
Understanding street grid changes
Organic Development: Most cities developed organically without oversight in street naming or numbering. Even ancient cities used grid systems, but cities in the United States often grew more haphazardly.
Property Demarcation and Sales: Street grids helped demarcate property lines and improved land sales. Cities like Chicago faced inconsistent numbering, especially when incorporating new towns.
Understanding street renaming
How to Track Street Grid Changes in Genealogical Research - Chicago
Historical Context: Street renaming could be influenced by political changes, war, or the adoption of numbering systems for residences and businesses. For instance, streets in Columbus, Ohio, named after German immigrants, were changed during World War I due to anti-German sentiment.
Municipal Procedures: Research the specific procedures of the municipality for street name changes. In Chicago, for example, it’s possible to petition for street renaming, and the process is documented in court and city records.
Strategies for tracking street grid changes
How to Track Street Grid Changes in Genealogical Research - Brooklyn 1870 city directory street name changesSearch “street name changes” + name of city. Using Google and other internet search engines, “street name changes Chicago” returns a variety of websites listing name changes over time such as Chicago Street Numbering.
Use specialized search tools.Obtaining Street Name Changes in One Step created by genealogist Steve Morse, is an easy-to-use tool to determine street name changes for over 250 cities in the United States. The changes are based on information from various city websites, city directories, and comparison of enumeration district maps.
Check for a street grid change. If you suspect that the street numbering was changed at some point, do a search for the city or town name and “street grid” or “street numbering.”
Search for old street names. Very often residents will continue to use the old name for a street rather than the new name. Mentions of the original street name can be found in diaries, letters, on envelopes and even in address books!
Use Sanborn Maps. Locating an ancestor’s home or business after a street renumbering or grid change can be challenging. Review the Sanborn Fire Insurance maps BEFORE and AFTER the change. These maps offer detailed information on buildings including owner, address, and more.
Check United States Federal Census population schedules. Especially for the 1930 and 1940 censuses, look for valuable information based on enumerator notes as well as the general order in which streets were enumerated. Some “notes” by the enumerator will state the former street name and other information.
Use city directories. Many city and business directories will have a section near the end of the directory where streets are listed in order (based on direction or starting at a specific landmark). In addition, some directories will summarize street name changes over time to assist readers. Comparing city directories over the years can help determine the old and new name of a street.
Check newspaper articles and notices. Often when a municipality planned a street name or numbering change, many notices appeared in the local newspaper. Determine when changes were made and do a search using historical newspapers.
Avoiding Duplicate Names: Verify exact street names using letters, diaries, and family conversations to avoid confusion with similar-sounding names (e.g., Wilson Terrace vs. Wilson Avenue).
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can track street grid changes and enhance your genealogical research.
