1950 Census Enumerator Notes: A Hidden Gem for Genealogists

The 1950 census is a treasure trove of information for genealogists, offering a snapshot of life in the United States after World War II. But did you know that there’s a hidden gem within this resource that can provide even more insight into your ancestors’ lives? We’re talking about the enumerator notes, often overlooked but potentially brimming with valuable information.

What are Enumerator Notes?

Census enumerators were the individuals who went door-to-door, collecting information from families and individuals. As they gathered data, they sometimes added notes in the margins of the census forms. These notes, known as enumerator notes, were typically brief comments about the household or its members. They could include:

• Observations about the dwelling’s condition (e.g., dilapidated, well-maintained)
• Information about the family’s living situation (e.g., shared with another family, living with relatives)
• Details about the family’s occupation (e.g., seasonal work, business ownership)
• Personal anecdotes or stories about the family (e.g., illness, family disputes)

Why are Enumerator Notes Important for Genealogists?

Enumerator notes can add a layer of depth and context to your family history research. They offer glimpses into the lives of your ancestors that wouldn’t be found in the standard census questions. For example:

• Understanding Living Conditions: Notes about the dwelling’s condition can reveal the socioeconomic status of your ancestors and the challenges they faced.
• Exploring Family Dynamics: Enumerator notes might provide details about family relationships, such as strained relationships or extended families living together.
• Discovering Hidden Stories: Sometimes, enumerators jotted down personal anecdotes or stories that provide a unique window into the lives of your ancestors.

How to Find Enumerator Notes

Unfortunately, enumerator notes are not always present on census forms. They were more common in earlier census years (e.g., 1880) but became less frequent in the 1950 census. However, there are still opportunities to find them:

• National Archives and Records Administration (NARA): NARA holds the original census records, and some of these records may still include enumerator notes. You can search the NARA website or visit a NARA facility to access these records.
• Ancestry.com and FamilySearch: These genealogy websites often include images of census records, and some of these images may show enumerator notes.
• Genealogy Forums and Websites: Online communities dedicated to genealogy often discuss census records, including the presence of enumerator notes. Search for specific census years or regions to find relevant discussions.

Interpreting Enumerator Notes

When you find enumerator notes, it’s crucial to interpret them carefully. Remember that they were written by individuals with their own biases and perspectives. Consider the following:

• Context: Pay attention to the time period, location, and social norms of the time when interpreting the notes.
• Language: Be aware of the language used in the notes, as it may reflect the enumerator’s own dialect or vocabulary.
• Bias: Recognize that enumerators might have had their own biases or opinions that could influence their observations.

Conclusion

Enumerator notes are a valuable but often overlooked resource for genealogists. By exploring these hidden gems, you can uncover new details about your ancestors’ lives, enriching your understanding of their experiences and adding depth to your family history research.