No, there was not a fire. There was a cyclone in 1909. Many records were lost, but some are still extant. Yes, they go back to 1818...I have some from as early as 1809. Write to the Giles Co Courthouse Old Records Dept to Mrs Clara Parker. Tell her your people and ask her to search for deeds. She will copy all she can locate and send you a bill. If you also want her to look for court records she will. Regina Roper