Using the US Census for Genealogy
US Census is one of the public records that genealogists use most often. Just the amount of information for one family is enormous. The first census was taken in 1790, and these early census recorded only six categories and recorded household members by category (males under 5 years, for example) but included no names.
Today's census, in comparison, is over long and includes 52 categories. Starting with the 1850 census, household members were listed by name, age, and birthdate. This gives you a good snapshot of your family in any given year.
Time Saving Tip for Genealogy
Record all information from one source at the same time. Recording one item from one source, then another item from another source, and finally going back to the first source to record more information takes too much precious time. Focus on one source at a time until you are finished with it.
Online Tip: Consider posting all your data to a website. Most ISP give you a small amount of web space free with your service. This can help you organize and easily move your records around.
Also read our article How to Find an Ancestor with the Census!
Census in Ancestor Search
Six years ago, an online ancestry website embarked on a mission to put every available US Federal Census online. They acquired, digitized and indexed over 13 million images. It would take the average person almost 3,500 years (yes years) to complete this! Now the complete source providing online access all census records from 1790 – 1930 is available online.
Recent Upgrades to the Census Database have made new searches including Native American Searches available to you!