The 1950 Census: A Genealogist's Guide

The 1950 census is a treasure trove of information for genealogists. It provides a snapshot of life in the United States after World War II, offering insights into family structures, occupations, and living conditions. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the 1950 census and unlock its genealogical potential.

Understanding the 1950 Census

The 1950 census was conducted on April 1, 1950, and collected information on every person residing in the United States. The census form included questions about:

• Name
• Relationship to head of household
• Race
• Age
• Sex
• Marital status
• Place of birth
• Year of immigration
• Citizenship
• Occupation
• Industry
• Education
• Housing

Accessing the 1950 Census

The 1950 census is available online through the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) website. You can search for individuals by name, place of residence, or other criteria. The website also provides helpful resources, such as a glossary of terms and frequently asked questions.

Finding Enumeration Districts (EDs)

The 1950 census is organized into Enumeration Districts (EDs). Each ED represents a geographic area, typically a neighborhood or a portion of a city or town. To locate your ancestor in the census, you'll need to know the ED they lived in. You can find ED information using the following resources:

• NARA's website: The website offers a search tool that allows you to find EDs by county and state.
• Genealogy websites: Many genealogy websites, such as Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org, provide ED maps and indexes.
• Historical atlases: Historical atlases for the United States may include ED maps.

Interpreting the Census Records

Once you've located the correct ED, you'll be able to access the census records for that area. The records are typically organized by household, and each individual within a household is listed on a separate line. Here are some tips for interpreting the census records:

• Pay attention to the column headings: The column headings provide information about the type of data collected.
• Note the abbreviations: The census records use abbreviations for some terms. A glossary of abbreviations is available on NARA's website.
• Understand the context: The census records provide a snapshot of life in 1950. Keep this in mind when interpreting the information.

Using the 1950 Census for Genealogy Research

The 1950 census can be a valuable tool for genealogists. It can help you:

• Confirm family relationships: The census records list the relationship of each individual to the head of household.
• Trace migration patterns: The place of birth and year of immigration can provide clues about your ancestor's migration history.
• Discover occupations and industries: The census records provide information about your ancestor's occupation and industry, which can help you learn more about their life and work.
• Identify other family members: The census records may list other family members, such as siblings, parents, or children.

Tips for Successful Search

• Start with a specific location: Begin your search with the known location of your ancestor in 1950.
• Use a variety of resources: Utilize both online and offline resources to find ED information and census records.
• Be patient and persistent: Searching the census can be time-consuming. Don't give up if you don't find your ancestor immediately.
• Record your findings: Keep detailed notes about your search process and any information you discover.

The 1950 census is an invaluable resource for genealogists. By understanding the census records and utilizing the available resources, you can unlock a wealth of information about your ancestors and their lives in the United States after World War II.