Module 2: Census Tutorials
While the US Census of Population will be the primary source for placing your family in their time and place in history, there are three other special censuses that you may want to consult. Here's how to use each of the censuses you'll encounter.
United States Census of Population
Overview of the US Census of Population, the backbone of genealogy research in the US. [Captions available, or view a transcript Links to an external site.] [Download slides Links to an external site.] (4:37)
Agricultural Census
Explanation of the Agricultural Census and how it can be a useful tool in genealogical research. [Captions available, or view a transcript Links to an external site.] [Download slides Links to an external site.] (3:13)
Slave Schedules
How to use the United States Census Slave Schedules to find enslaved ancestors. [Captions available, or view a transcript Links to an external site.] [Download slides Links to an external site.] (3:45)
Veterans Schedules
How to use the United States Census Veterans Schedule to find ancestors who served in the military. [Captions available, or view a transcript Links to an external site.] [Download slides Links to an external site.] (2:43)
More about special nonpopulation census schedules [PDF] Download More about special nonpopulation census schedules [PDF]
This handout from the State Library of North Carolina provides more detail on some of the many special nonpopulation census schedules.
Blank Census Forms from the National Archives Links to an external site.
Use these blank census forms for recording census information as you research. Each form is downloadable as a PDF.
Other tutorials
You may choose to access census information online via sites like Ancestry.com or Familysearch.org. While you can pay for individual access to some of these sites, it is common for libraries and archives to provide their patrons with access. Check with your local library.
Ancestry.com Tutorials Links to an external site.
Familysearch.org Tutorials Links to an external site.
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