Map Guide to the U.S. Federal Censuses, 1790-1920 [Paperback]

William Thorndale (Author), William Dollarhide (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0806311886 | ISBN-13: 978-0806311883 | Publication Date: January 1995 | Edition: First Edition

The county has always been used as the basic Federal census unit. Genealogical research in the census, therefore, begins with identifying the correct county jurisdictions. This work shows all U.S. county boundaries from 1790 to 1920. On each of the nearly 400 maps the old county lines are superimposed over the modern ones to highlight the boundary changes at ten-year intervals. Also included are (1) a history of census growth; (2) the technical facts about each census; (3) a discussion of census accuracy; (4) an essay on available sources for each state's old county lines; and (5) a statement with each map indicating which county census lines exist and which are lost. Then there is an index listing all present-day counties, plus nearly all defunct counties or counties later re-named. With each map there is data on boundary changes, notes about the census, and locality finding keys. There also are inset maps that clarify territorial lines, a state-by-state bibliography of sources, and an appendix outlining pitfalls in mapping county boundaries. The detail in this work is exhaustive and of such impeccable standards that there is little wonder why this award-winning publication is the number one tool in U.S. census research.

Product Details

• Paperback: 445 pages
• Publisher: Genealogical Publishing Company; First Edition edition (January 1995)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0806311886
• ISBN-13: 978-0806311883
• Product Dimensions: 10.8 x 8.4 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (22 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #149,838 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #73 in Books > Education & Reference > Genealogy

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

37 of 37 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent map source for county and state changes to 1920, December 11, 1997

By 

Mojeaux (Wichita KS USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Map Guide to the U.S. Federal Censuses, 1790-1920 (Paperback)

This book is a excellent source of geographical information regarding the various county and state boundary changes form 1790 to 1920. The maps would be of benefit to both the historian and the genealogist.

The maps are clear and easy to read. Comparison to the current county bounday is made for each census year. Non-populated counties are noted.

I highly recommend this book for genealogists and anyone interested in the history or development of the USA or a particular state or county.

Lorna Rust

17 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A must have for all Genealogists!, November 10, 2001

By 

Tamra Butler (USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Map Guide to the U.S. Federal Censuses, 1790-1920 (Paperback)

This book is used constantly, and as a source it is not replacable. There is no other book on the market that helps you figure out the county lines in the state you are researching. It aids in the total research of county to county, as these counties changed and more were added.

12 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great tool while surfing the net, April 3, 2001

By 

Ms. Georgeann Malowney (Redmond, WA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Map Guide to the U.S. Federal Censuses, 1790-1920 (Paperback)

Keep this book handy when using online databases to find census information. Many County Boundaries changed over time. Don't waste find looking in the wrong county. County maps for each state are clearly outlined and you can see the current county name in a different shade then the county name for each census year.