§ 1320 [Reputation Evidence of Community Historical Events]

When something important happened in a community's history, people can testify about what the community generally believes or says about that event. This kind of testimony is allowed in court even though it is based on what others have said, which normally would be blocked as hearsay.

For example, if a case involves a historic local event like a flood, a fire, or the founding of a town, a witness could describe what people in that area have long understood about when or how it happened. The event needs to be the kind that mattered to the community, not just a minor or private matter.