Which states are primarily known as metes and bounds states?

The original 13 colonies are primarily known as metes and bounds states because this method of land surveying was extensively used in those regions following British colonization. Metes and bounds describe land using physical features of the geography, such as trees, rivers, and roads, along with distances and angles. This system was developed in England and brought over to the colonies, where the irregular and varied landscape made it more practical compared to the rectangular survey system that was later used in other areas of the United States.

The original 13 colonies had varied terrain and land use patterns that required a more descriptive and flexible system like metes and bounds, which could specify boundaries based on natural landmarks rather than only straight lines and specific measurements. This is a significant aspect of land description history in the U.S. and highlights how land ownership and surveying practices were influenced by early colonial practices.