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U.S. Census Research Guide

The U.S. Census Bureau conducts several data collection programs about the U.S. population which have their own language, geography, and data portals. This guide is based on a similar guide created by Kelly Smith at UCSD.

For more info...

Raw Data Files

These are computer files intended to be loaded into statistical software for analysis and creating your own tables. In some cases these files can be used with spreadsheet software as well.

Population Schedules 1810, 1818, 1820

Census population schedules (or "name schedules" or "manuscript census") are copies of the original questionnaires collected during each decennial census. They list the individual names and family information of the people enumerated. Unlike the statistics published soon after the census, the population schedules remain confidential for 72 years. 1930 is the most recent population schedule available.

Illinois census returns ... edited with introduction and notes by Margaret Cross Norton. 
(Collections of the Illinois State Historical Library, vol. 24, 26.)

Main Library   Stacks   977.3 I29 v.24 (1810, 1818)

Main Library   Stacks   977.3 I29 v.26 (1820)

Contact

Need help? Use the Ask-A-Librarian reference service, or call us at (847) 491-7656, during Research Assistance Desk hours.

To consult with a government information specialist by appointment, contact govinfo@northwestern.edu

1820 Census

About the 1820 Census

Highlights

  • 4th decennial census
  • US population: 9,638,453
  • Illinois population: 55,211
  • First census to ask about occupation/employment

Questions asked

Name of head of family; age; sex; race; foreigners not naturalized; slaves; industry (agriculture, commerce, and manufactures).

For more information:

Map Coverage of the 1820 Census

For more information:

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

Statistics

Multi-year census compilations (compare across years): These sources tend to include statistics for large geographic areas (e.g. states), but can be very useful when comparing statistics over time.

Digitized Data Sources

  • National Historical Geographic Information System (NHGIS)
    Hosted at the University of Minnesota, provides aggregate census data and GIS-compatible boundary files for the United States between 1790 and 2014. Open access to data, although users must create an account.
  • Social Explorer - subscription database, access to NU-affiliated users only.
    Includes Census data 1790-present along with other datasets on health, crime, and other topics.  US emphasis but other national data is also available.  Data can be mapped or data tables extracted.

Key publications:

Print available in the Library

Online access

Census for 1820
Gov Ref Census C 3/a./5:
2 volumes

From the Census Bureau

From IPUMS

Digest of accounts of manufacturing establishments in the United States, and of their manufactures

Sabin Americana (NU affiliates only)