*** LCHIP Recording Surcharge Information, Effective July 1 , 2008***

The recording of important documents is one of the oldest functions preformed by government. Centuries before the birth of Christ, the practice of stamping an official seal on documents was common.

Shortly after 1587, the first English settlers mysteriously disappeared from what is now North Carolina. They left the word "CROATAN" carved in a tree. This may be one of the first recordings in the New World.

Strafford County was one of the five original Counties by an Act of General Assembly on April 29, 1769, but it was not to become effective until approved by King George III. On March 19, 1771 County government in New Hampshire received the royal blessing and it became a reality. One of the main reasons for the creation of Strafford County and her sister Counties was to make "legal services, especially the registering of property ownership and recording of deeds and other transactions, be made more accessible." And since 1771, this office has been making those documents available to the public.

The Registry office is easily accessible from the Spaulding Turnpike. Take Exit 9 West, then left at the lights to the intersection with Sixth Street, then right for about one mile to County Farm Road, which is on the left. After one mile you will see the Strafford County Court House on the right. The Registry is located on the first floor.

The official records maintained at the Registry of Deeds is located at 259 County Farm Road, Dover, NH 03820, contain real estate records dating from 1771 to present. Our office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, however we stop recording at 4:00 PM. A visit to our office will enable a researcher access to all our records, index, plans as well as document images. Copies of documents may be obtained at our 259 County Farm Road location for a fee. Faxed copies may be obtained if the user has established a charge account in advance.

Other pertinent information relative to Recording Requirements and Recording fees are available at the office or call (603) 742-1741.