iMessage

Hi Brandon1997_33,

Thank you for using the Apple Support Communities. 

We understand that you want to access old messages and we're happy to help! If you Use Messages in iCloud, “you can easily set up a new device and access your entire messages history. Messages you send, receive, or delete are updated on all iOS devices, iPadOS devices, and Mac computers where you’re signed in to iMessage with the same Apple ID. To turn on Messages in iCloud on a iOS device "go to Settings > [your name] > iCloud, then turn Messages on."

For additional information check out the Apple resources below: 

Set up Messages on iPhone

Store messages in iCloud

Backup methods for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch

We hope this helps.

Take care.