How to Track a Family in the U.S. Census
Finding people in census records is different for each year they were taken. The U.S. Census has been conducted every 10 years since 1790, and many states also conducted their own censuses in the “off years” (often the 5th year between federal censuses).
Federal census records are available back to 1790, but unfortunately the 1890 census is almost entirely unavailable due to a fire that destroyed most of the records.
Here’s how I searched for my great-grandfather in the 1950 Census using the National Archives Census Records.
Step-by-step:
- Go to National Archives – Census Records.
- In the left column, select 1950.
- Follow the instructions, which will direct you to the dedicated 1950 Census – National Archives site.
- Use the available filters (state, county, enumeration district) to narrow your search results.
- Open the census page image to find the correct enumeration district and confirm details, including all household members.
- Compare with earlier census years to track where he lived and how the household changed over time.
Instructions with Images
Go to National Archives – Census Records. In the left column, select 1950.
Follow the instructions, which will direct you to the dedicated 1950 Census – National Archives site.
Use the available filters (state, county, enumeration district) to narrow your search results.
Open the census page image to find the correct enumeration district and confirm details, including all household members.
Compare with earlier census years to track where he lived and how the household changed over time.
Tip: Pay attention to occupations, addresses, and neighbors—these clues can lead to other valuable records.
Related Post: Finding Your First Genealogy Records
