Searching the US Census Pt 4

We have reached the conclusion of our series on using the census for genealogy research. We will conclude with acknowledging 3 unique types of census supplementary records. Slave schedules, mortality schedules and state censuses are  Slave schedules were done as a supplement to the 1850 and 1860 federal census. For each area, the name of the enslaver is listed, along with the gender and age of each enslaved person. Unfortunately, no names for these enslaved people are included. This schedule is only recorded in 17-18 states or territories. 

Another specialty schedule recorded in the late 1800’s was the mortality schedule. This supplementary record was recorded each decade from 1850-1880. These records included the name of the deceased, their age, cause of death, marital status and length of time in the county. This record may be helpful in the event that a death certificate is not available. These are unfortunately not always available.  Lastly, an awesome discovery, when you can find it is a state census. States census records are inconsistent in their recording and availability. In ideal cases, the state census was taken 5 years after the federal  census, allowing people to be followed every 5 years. Many of the same details collected in the federal census are reported in the state census. Unfortunately many of these records have not survived. When they can be found, they are very helpful in following a family that may have moved between decades.  The US Federal Census and associated records have some awesome information contained in them. The tips and details we have shared through this 4 part series will help you to use these records for genealogy research. Understanding some of the nuances  of each census year and how information was collected can be critical in understanding life for your ancestors many years ago. We truly hope you have enjoyed this series and will be back next week to discuss birth certificates and birth indexes.