Thursday, February 04, 2010

My Favorite Census

NARAtions is asking what is my favorite census?  I love the 1850 census.  This is the first census where I can see the entire family without having to theorize who an individual is.  This is the first census I might have a clue as to the maiden name of the wife because of the elderly woman living in the household with a different surname.  Doesn't tell me for sure, but oh what an intriguing clue to now be able to follow. The 1850 census can give me a birthdate, at least a year, when before I may have only had a 10 year span.  I really like the 1850 census.  It's my favorite.

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