Genealogy Hints
Genealogical Society of Marion County, IndianaCensus Research
Begin with the latest census available and work backwards. Census records have been taken since 1790. Before 1790 you can use Tax Lists and other local lists that might have been compiled according to the state in which you are researching.
Generations
More than one generation may be listed in a household.
enumerator
Census records were generated by enumerators. Some who had very bad handwriting.
other censuses
Census were also done by States and Territories for various reasons.
Enumeration District
Starting in 1880, an Enumeration District consisted of not more than 4,000 persons assigned to one enumerator, or census taker.
Census facts?
Don't assume that all information in the census is correct. It's only as good as the knowledge of the person reporting it or recording it.
census timeline
Prepare a census timeline before you begin. Review what you will find in the census you are searching. Expect spelling and age variations.
last person on page
If you find your ancestor as the last person on the census page, make sure you check the next page for more information.
1890 census
The 1890 census was destroyed in a fire but many groups are now gathering other data to fill in this gap.
72 year closure for federal census
A U.S. census is closed to the public for 72 years after it is taken.