The County Recorder has the important and indispensable task of keeping the vital records pertaining to ownership of real estate (land) and to all encumbrances or liens upon it. Without the work of the County Recorder, it would be nearly impossible to purchase land and be assured of a clear title or to lend money with land as security. The Recorder keeps and maintains accurate land records that are current, legible and easily accessible. An important aspect of the Recorder's work is to index each document so it may be readily located. Accurate indexing makes it possible for persons searching land records to find the documents necessary to establish a "chain of title" (history of ownership) and ensures that any debts or encumbrances against