By |Published On: October 8, 2015|

The term “Criss Cross” was coined prior to 1932 by W.L. Haines, founder of Haines & Company, Inc. It refers to a single cross-reference directory containing both addresses in sequence (arranged alphabetically by street within zip codes), and phone numbers in numeric order.

The first Criss Cross directory was published in 1932. The words “Criss Cross” and “Criss+Cross,” as well as the logo were trademarked by Haines & Company, Inc., which still holds the trademarks today.

The Criss Cross directory soon became a vital research tool used by police and fire departments, as well as libraries and government agencies. It also grew into a powerful resource that has allowed businesses to market to homeowners and consumers for more than 80 years.

In 1956, Haines & Company, Inc. was one of the founding members of the International Association of Cross Reference Directory Publishers. Member companies banded together to share technical information regarding accurate data compilation and establish guidelines for the responsible and ethical management of consumer and business data.

For years, these annually published cross-reference directories — covering complete cities and suburban areas — have provided more up-to-date listings per dollar than any other source.

Today, the Criss+Cross Directory has become the ultimate
prospecting tool helping businesses generate more
leads. It is designed to build telemarketing lists that can be
uploaded directly into an auto-dialer or CRM, target around
a recent job site, or run a direct mail campaign to targeted
prospects.

At Haines – Customers are a part of our family. They shape our future, our goals, and – most importantly – help us develop products that are tailored to the needs of today’s business. Our number one goal is to help our customers make quality connections to empower the growth of their business. I am proud to be the 4th generation of the Haines family, and the company’s first female CEO. I’m 100% focused on continuing to grow Haines, build world-class products, and serve our customers. Here’s to the next 90 years!

About the Author

Ashley Williams

Since 1932, Haines has been publishing the original Criss Cross directory. Now, instead of a giant book, we deliver the same great information in a digital format. We are a family-owned, certified women-owned business led by me as our first female, fourth-generation CEO. Our Criss+Cross Directory is nationally recognized for delivering essential residential and property data. We serve diverse clients — from government agencies to real estate professionals, mortgage companies, investors, contractors, and more

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Testimonials

We have been using Haines Criss Cross for years! Its data is the lifeline of our prospecting to help us find new residential real estate listings and narrow down specific farm searches for targeted buyer searches. Their customer service and training is always helpful at answering questions and recommending new strategies. Would highly recommend it!

D.D. Castillo

Triolo Realty Group

I would recommend this to anyone involved in the real estate industry who wants access to a system that will help them in their business. We use Haines frequently and have for years. It’s a great database!

Lila Wohlwend

Clear Sky Realty

Haines had been a breath of fresh air! They have been amazing to work with over the last 20 years. I will always be a loyal client!

Stephanie

First National Title & Escrow