Houses at 1141,1143, 1145, 1147 and 1149 Ridgeway Avenue, built by H.J. Campbell in 1910. All are now designated heritage houses. Photo: NVMA 12276

In response to a growing interest in residential genealogy by homeowners, real estate agents and genealogists, the Archives of North Vancouver has created a Research Guide to support your discovery of information about your property or one that you are interested in.

Ever wondered when your home was built or who lived there before you? Home history research is one of the fastest-growing research trends in Archives in recent years. The NVMA has a variety of records and other materials that document the history of buildings in North Vancouver.

House at 225 East 4th Street, a prefab from BC Mills Timber and Trading Co., circa 1909. Marjorie and Edith McColl, daughters of Dugald McColl in front. Photo: NVMA 3154

Searching for information on a building and property can reveal important details about its original design, architectural evolution, the evolution of a neighbourhood, and stories about the building’s inhabitants over the years.

With our Researching Homes Guide, you can find out:

• When your house was built;
• The history of who lived in your house;
• How to search for photographs of your house;
• Learn about fire insurance plans and what they can tell you about your house and neighbourhood;
• How to access building permit registers, water service records, and property tax records;
• And so much more.

Fire Insurance Maps for North Vancouver, circa 1910. Photo: NVMA 14.-MP-125