Guidelines for Genealogical Research

              Census Records
The Archives holdings of Illinois census records, both federal and state, span 1810–1930.
When requesting a staff search please provide the individual’s name; the census date;
county residence and, if known, township residence; and spouse’s and children’s names,
ages, and birthplaces. Copies of original census entries will be provided.
1810–1860 The Archives has indexes covering decennial federal censuses and existing state censuses
for this period. All state censuses and federal censuses prior to 1850 list only the names of
heads of household with family members indicated by simple tallies. Beginning with the
1850 federal census, all family members are listed under the head of the household.
1865 This final state census currently is indexed only partially. County and township residences
are necessary for efficient searches. Searches of unindexed townships with populations
exceeding 2,500 cannot be performed because of limitations on staff research time. Again
only the names of the heads of households are given.
1870 The Archives has a published index to this federal census, providing access to heads of
households.
1880 An index to this federal census, available as a CD edition, has been created by the Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter–Day Saints (LDS). Unlike the old soundex system, this database
allows for a wide variety of searches, including all of the names entered on the census.
1890 This federal census was destroyed by a fire in 1921 and consequently is not available for
research.
1900–1920 The 1900, 1910, and 1920 federal censuses can be searched by the names of the heads of
households.
1930 The 1930 Illinois’ population schedules are available at the Archives on microfilm. Because
no index for this census is available, Archives staff members do not have sufficient time to
conduct name searches. Visiting patrons are invited to consult this federal census them-selves.
Special Schedules of
The Federal Census The Archives has the decennial special censuses for Illinois conducted by the federal gov-ernment
during 1850–1880. Two types of these censuses record individuals involved in
specific professions: agriculture and industry (1850–1880). The 1880 census includes per-sons
with disabilities, dependents and delinquents. These censuses are not indexed.
Guidelines for Genealogical Research
JESSE WHITE ILLINOIS STATE ARCHIVES
Secretary of State Norton Building
and State Archivist Springfield, Illinois
This guide briefly explains our most frequently consulted genealogical resources. If you find any of these records of
interest, please ask our staff how to access them. During your visit, the reference staff is available to offer research
assistance. The Norton Building is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., and Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 3:30
p.m., except on holiday weekends.
www.cyberdriveillinois.com