Researchers’ Guide
The Fairfax Circuit Court Historic Records Center has compiled a researchers’ guide to help patrons seeking information about records in our repository. The guide provides an overview of the variety of records held at the HRC, a list of currently available indexes, a chart showing the formation of Fairfax County, a conversion chart for chains, rods, and feet, and research checklists.
You can view the “Information for Researchers” guide
here.
Lost Records Localities
The Library of Virginia identifies Fairfax County as a “Lost Records Locality,” indicating that the county has suffered tremendous losses of early records due to intense military activity (predominantly during the Civil War). Most of the loose papers kept by the Fairfax court, such as original wills, deeds, and court papers, from 1742 to 1865 have been destroyed, stolen, or otherwise lost. Deed Books for the twenty-six of the fifty-six years between 1763 and 1819 are missing, as well as several 18th and early 19th century court order books.
To inquire with HRC staff as to what records are available for research, please call 703-246-4168, email CCRHistoricRecords@fairfaxcounty.gov, or visit our Finding Aids/Indexes page.
