Public Records Land

How can I find out about an old building?

I live out in the country and on the end of this back road there is a run down big building and a man once told me it was a mental hospital but I was also told it was a state pen before that. I’m just wondering what it used to be and wanted to know if I could find public records on it or something like that. I’m pretty sure the land belongs to a university now. I’m just being curious so thanks

If you live close to a town get in touch with their city hall and find out if they have any information. If not you can try to find out from the county assessor’s office.