Register of Deeds
The Register of Deeds Office is responsible for recording, maintaining, and safeguarding the official public records of Thomas County. These records include real estate documents, land ownership history, plats, deeds, mortgages, releases, easements, and other important instruments related to property.
In Thomas County, the County Clerk also serves as the Register of Deeds, ensuring continuity, accuracy, and secure handling of all property-related documents.
What the Register of Deeds Does
The Register of Deeds Office plays a vital role in documenting and preserving the legal history of property in Thomas County. Duties include:
📄 Recording & Maintaining Public Records
- Deeds, mortgages, and releases
- Plats, surveys, and property descriptions
- Easements and restrictive covenants
- Assignments, liens, and other real estate instruments
📚 Public Access to Records
- Assisting property owners, title companies, attorneys, and researchers
- Maintaining historical land records
- Providing certified copies upon request
🗂 Real Estate Documentation Archive
The office contains the complete historical record of land transactions in Thomas County. These records are essential for establishing ownership, completing real estate transactions, and researching property history.
Register of Deeds Contact Information
Assessor
Clerk
Clerk of District Court
Election Commissioner
Register of Deeds
Register of Deeds: Lorissa Hartman
(Also serving as Assessor, Clerk, Clerk of District Court, and Election Commissioner)
📍 Office Location
503 Main Street
Thedford, NE 69166
📬 Mailing Address
PO Box 226
Thedford, NE 69166
📞 Phone: (308) 645-2261
📠 Fax: (308) 645-2623
🕒 Office Hours
Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM–12:00 PM & 1:00 PM–4:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM–12:00 PM & 1:00 PM–3:00 PM
Additional Duties of the County Clerk (Ex Officio Register of Deeds)
Because Thomas County does not elect a standalone Register of Deeds, Nebraska law designates the County Clerk as ex officio Register of Deeds. These additional responsibilities include:
- Serving as secretary to the Board of Commissioners
- Countersigning all county vendor and payroll checks
- Issuing marriage licenses (since 1987)
- Administering county elections
- Overseeing voter registration
- Maintaining financial and official county records
Our Commitment
The Register of Deeds Office is dedicated to:
- Providing accurate, secure, and efficient service
- Preserving the integrity of property records
- Ensuring public access to essential documents
- Supporting transparency and trust in county government
If you need assistance locating a document, recording a transaction, or researching property history, our staff is here to help.