Although founded in 1893, the Company’s records are much older than that, for they cover the period from the early Spanish days to the present time. The history of every parcel of land in the County is recorded in the books and maps of the Company’s title plant, and in its old records safely stored in its archives vault. This great store house of real estate information, called the title plant, is the Company’s most valuable possession. It is from these invaluable records, many of which are originals, that the material used in compiling “The Romance of the Ranchos” has been derived. This real estate information has been indexed and classified so that the Company’s examiners may find the necessary information in the least possible time. Millions of dollars have been expended in creating this great plant which is not surpassed by any in the nation. Great as has been the cost and the amount of labor expended—this title plant is not finished—it never will be finished. Each business day of the year 1500 to 2000 documents affecting Los Angeles County real estate titles are filed in the Recorder’s office and by 11:30 p.m.—on the day of filing—all have been “posted” on the Company’s books. Much of the “posting,” much of the map making in the title plant has no connection with present orders. Some of the work done today may be used tomorrow, some of it may not be used for many years. An important part of the personnel in this great business machine, which we call the title plant, is engaged solely in the preparation for future work. But when the call comes, the plant is ready. This plant was created to give the people of Los Angeles County accurate service in the searching and insuring of titles. It serves owner—buyer—lender—borrower. From this plant, the Company issues policies of title insurance protecting the ownership of real property. Step by step, these policies, through a series of improvements extending throughout the entire history of the Company, have been developed into the highest type of title protection offered anywhere. ESCROWS The modern escrow system was originated by this Company. It was designed to make real estate transactions convenient and safe. A highly trained personnel and complete and convenient facilities provide efficient service to buyer and to seller. TRUSTS The Company acts as executor and trustee under wills, as administrator of estates, and in all other trust capacities. It offers at a nominal cost an “all-inclusive” declaration of trust, which is exceedingly flexible. Life insurance policies may be placed in this trust, thereby protecting the beneficiary from loss, and to this trust from time to time there may be added real or personal property.