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  • 1890 United States Census
    • Main contributor: Thomas MacEntee
    1890 US Census Form Completed
    1890 US Census Form Completed.

    The 1890 U.S. Census is a critical resource for genealogy research, but it comes with significant challenges due to the destruction of most of its records. Here’s a guide on how to navigate and utilize what remains of the 1890 Census for your genealogy research.

    Research your ancestors on MyHeritage

    Understanding the 1890 Census and Its challenges

    The 1890 Census was the 11th decennial census of the United States, conducted on June 1, 1890.[1] It included detailed information on individuals, such as name, age, race, birthplace, occupation, and more. Unfortunately, a large portion of the 1890 Census records was destroyed in a fire in 1921, and only a small fraction of the records survived.

    Identifying the surviving records

    Before diving into the 1890 Census, it's important to understand what portions of it still exist. Only fragments of the original census remain, including records from the following states:

    • Alabama
    • Georgia
    • Illinois
    • Minnesota
    • New Jersey
    • New York
    • North Carolina
    • Ohio
    • South Dakota
    • Texas

    In total, these fragments cover only around 6,160 individuals out of the entire U.S. population at that time.

    Accessing the 1890 Census fragments

    1890 US Census Fire
    1890 US Census Fire

    To access the surviving records:

    • Online Databases: Many genealogy websites, such as MyHeritage offer digital copies of the surviving 1890 Census fragments. These platforms often have search tools to help locate specific individuals or families within the surviving records.
    • National Archives and Records Administration (NARA): The National Archives holds the original surviving records. You can visit their physical locations or use their online resources to access these records.

    Using substitute records

    1890 US Census Veterans Schedule completed
    1890 US Census Veterans Schedule completed

    Given the limited availability of the 1890 Census, researchers often turn to substitute records that can fill in the gaps. Here are some key substitutes:

    • 1890 Veterans Schedule: The 1890 Census included a special schedule listing Union veterans and widows of the Civil War. This schedule survives in full and is an excellent resource for finding information on ancestors who served in the Civil War.
    • City directories: City directories from the late 1880s and early 1890s can serve as a substitute, providing names, addresses, and occupations of residents.
    • State Censuses: Some states conducted their own censuses around 1890. These state censuses can be a valuable alternative source of information.
    • Voter Registration Lists: Voter registration records from around 1890 can provide information on eligible voters, which can be cross-referenced with other records.
    • Tax Records: Property and tax records from the 1890s can help locate and identify individuals when the federal census is unavailable.
    • Land Records: Land deeds, homestead records, and other land-related documents can also serve as a substitute, providing details on where ancestors lived and their property ownership.

    Exploring alternative research strategies

    Given the limitations of the 1890 Census, you may need to employ additional strategies:

    • Broadening your search: Expand your research to include family members, neighbors, and associates of your ancestor. This can help you piece together more information through related individuals.
    • Collateral lines: Researching siblings, cousins, and other collateral relatives can provide additional context and clues to your direct ancestors' lives.
    • Using later and earlier censuses: The 1880 and 1900 U.S. Censuses are fully intact and can provide a before-and-after snapshot surrounding the missing 1890 data. Comparing these records can help bridge the gap

    Despite the significant challenges presented by the loss of most 1890 U.S. Census records, the surviving fragments, coupled with alternative sources, can still provide invaluable insights into your genealogical research. By employing substitute records and adopting broadened research strategies, you can successfully navigate this challenging period and uncover vital details about your ancestors.

    See also

    Explore more about 1890 United States Census

    References

    1. ↑ 1890 Census. U.S. National Archives and Records Administration


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