What is a "Lost Corner"?

A "Lost Corner" refers to a corner whose position cannot be determined based on existing records or physical markers. This situation typically arises when a survey corner, which should define a particular point on a property boundary, has either been destroyed, removed, or never established in a recognizable way. As a result, surveyors must rely on other methods, such as retracing past surveys, referencing adjoining property corners, or utilizing historical documentation to try to ascertain the original location of the lost corner.

In land surveying, accurately identifying corners is crucial for delineating property boundaries, and the status of a lost corner can significantly impact property rights and disputes. Surveyors often utilize legal principles and evidence from previous surveys to re-establish the position of lost corners, which is an essential skill in land surveying practice. Understanding the concept of a lost corner is critical for anyone involved in boundary determinations or land ownership issues, particularly in jurisdictions like Oklahoma, where survey laws may dictate specific procedures for resolving ambiguities.