Search Free Census Records Online
Find your ancestors in the U.S. census with these free online census records, census images, census indexes and census databases in our easy to use census directory.
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What is a census?
A census is the procedure of systematically acquiring and recording information about the members of a given population. The United Nations defines the essential features of population and housing censuses as "individual enumeration, universality within a defined territory, simultaneity and defined periodicity", and recommends that population censuses be taken at least every 10 years.
Why are census records important for family history?
- Identifying relatives and reconstructing family groups: Census records list household members, their names, ages, relationships to the head of household, and other vital information, helping genealogists piece together family structures.
- Tracing ancestors' geographic movements: By comparing census entries across different decades, researchers can track their ancestors' migration patterns and understand where they lived at specific points in time.
- Discovering details about ancestors' lives: Census records can reveal information about occupations, literacy, homeownership, immigration status, and other aspects of ancestors' daily lives. Exploring broader historical and social contexts: Census data provides insights into the demographic, economic, and social characteristics of communities and the nation as a whole, helping to understand the historical context in which ancestors lived.
Information found in census records
- Names of household members
- Relationships to the head of household
- Birthplace
- Parents birthplace
- Marital status
- Age
- Sex
- Occupation
- Military service information
- Immigration date
- Names of family members
United States Census Types:
- Church Census
- Colonial Census
- Federal Census
- Indian Census Rolls
- School Census
- State Census
- Territorial Census
Substitute Census Records
Other records that show where people lived are:
- Directories
- Maps (especially plat and insurance maps)
- Tax Lists
- Voting Registers