Using Mortality Schedules in Genealogy Research

Mortality schedules are a unique and valuable resource for genealogists, offering a glimpse into the lives and deaths of individuals in the past. They are special lists included in some US census records that count the dead. These schedules can be a treasure trove of information, especially when other death records are unavailable.

What are Mortality Schedules?

Mortality schedules were created as part of the US Census from 1850 to 1900. They were designed to collect data on the number of deaths in a specific area during a particular period. These schedules often contain information about the deceased, including:

• Name
• Age
• Sex
• Race
• Marital Status
• Cause of Death
• Place of Death
• Whether the deceased was born in the US or a foreign country

Why are Mortality Schedules Important for Genealogy Research?

Mortality schedules can be a valuable resource for genealogists for several reasons:

• Confirmation of Death: They can confirm the death of an ancestor and provide details about the circumstances. This is particularly helpful when death records are missing or incomplete.
• Identification of Relatives: Mortality schedules often list the names of the deceased’s spouse and children, providing clues about family relationships.
• Cause of Death: The information on the cause of death can shed light on health conditions and living conditions of the past.
• Place of Death: The place of death can help pinpoint the location where an ancestor died, which can be useful in locating other records like burial records.

How to Access Mortality Schedules

Mortality schedules are available online through various sources, including:

• The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA): NARA has digitized many census records, including mortality schedules, which can be accessed through its website.
• Ancestry.com: Ancestry.com offers a wide range of genealogical records, including mortality schedules.
• FamilySearch.org: FamilySearch.org, a free genealogy website operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, also provides access to mortality schedules.

Tips for Using Mortality Schedules

• Start with the Census Year: Begin by identifying the census year in which your ancestor likely died. This will narrow down your search.
• Focus on the Location: Identify the state, county, and city where your ancestor died. This information is crucial for locating the correct mortality schedule.
• Use Keywords: Use the deceased’s name, age, and other identifying details as keywords to search for them in the mortality schedules.
• Review the Information Carefully: Pay close attention to all the information listed on the mortality schedule, as it can provide valuable insights into your ancestor’s life and death.

Conclusion

Mortality schedules are a unique and valuable resource for genealogists. They can provide vital information about the lives and deaths of ancestors, especially when other records are unavailable. By understanding how to access and use these schedules, genealogists can uncover valuable clues about their family history and gain a deeper understanding of their ancestors’ lives.