The earliest survey records date back to the 18th century. Government surveys began in Ohio and progressed westward as more territory was opened for settlement. Once the public domain was surveyed, the government could begin to transfer title of land parcels to private citizens, companies and local governments.

Survey plats are drawings of boundaries, prepared by draftsmen, based on data in the sketches and field notes. Survey field notes are records that describe the survey performed and are completed by the surveyor. The field notes may contain descriptions of land formations, climate, soil, plant and animal life, and even the names of settlers living in the survey area.

In order to receive information regarding plats and field notes, call or write to the Bureau of Land Management to the attention of Cadastral Survey. Please include your complete name, telephone number and address with each request. Remember to specify the entire legal description, including subdivision (such as S 1/2, and NE 1/4 NE 1/4), section, township, range, survey meridian, State, county, and any other pertinent information. Send your written requests to:

Eastern States has responsibility for the 13 public land states east of and bordering the Mississippi River, except for the original 13 colonies and their territories. But, Eastern States does not maintain plats and field notes for Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, and Ohio. This information is located at: