History

The tradition of recording real estate documents traces its roots back to English law, which was brought to the New World by the early colonists. In colonial America, public land registrars were appointed to uphold accurate records. Following the establishment of the Northwest Territory in 1787, a Recorder's Office was instituted in each county. The office transitioned into an elective position in 1829, and in 1936, the term was standardized at four years.