:: Local History Resources
The Riverside Historical Society publishes a yearly journal that focuses on Riverside history. The articles are extremely helpful for those who wish to learn more about our community. The journal may be found at the Main Branch of the Riverside Public Library.
Many patrons find maps to be useful tool in their research. These are just a few of the local maps available to researchers. The maps range from 1869 to the present. We have Sanborn maps available, as well as specialized maps.
There are many institutions and places in the Riverside area that are useful to researchers interested in Riverside history. Many of them are free and open to the public. They range from public institutions like The Riverside Public Library to private institutions like the Mission Inn Museum.
Listed below are just a few of the maps that are available for researchers. If there is a particular year, area of coverage, or subject that you are interested in, please contact the Riverside Local History Resource Center.
- Sanborn Maps: The Riverside Public Library has Sanborn maps on microfilm.
- Riverside City Maps: 1870 to present. Including maps of the original '"Mile Square."
- Water Maps: Beginning with the Gage canal.
- Maps of surrounding communities
- State and County Highway/Freeway Maps
- United States Geological Service Topographical Maps
- California Division of Forestry Maps
- Zoning Maps
- Historical Maps: Range from maps showing Spanish exploration in the area to maps showing historical landmarks.
- Railroad Maps
- Political Maps: Showing boundaries of political districts
Open to the public, the County of Riverside Robert J. Fitch Archives serves a broad range of interests and users, including: County staff, independent researchers, students, historians, and writers. Those seeking to research historical property ownership and valuation, mining or water interests, or actions taken by the Board of Supervisors beginning in 1893 will find original documents in the Archives to assist them. The Assessor’s office is responsible for locating, identifying and valuing all taxable property in Riverside County. The Recorder is responsible for providing the public with constructive notice of private acts and creating and maintaining custody of permanent records for all documents filed and recorded in Riverside County. The County Clerk services range from issuing marriage licenses and performing marriage ceremonies to filing Fictitious Business Names.
We also encourage you to visit the City of Riverside's Geographic Information Systems' Online Maps where you can view dynamic maps of Riverside.