Request a Free Genealogy Lookup
The 1840 Census Index for U.S. Selected Counties opens a window into America just two decades before the Civil War. As part of the government’s decennial census, this collection records vital details about households across selected counties in various states.
The census gathered data by age, sex, and race, providing a picture of population growth during the early 19th century. Importantly, the 1840 census also counted enslaved persons, making it a key record for understanding the realities of slavery in the United States during this period. While not as detailed as modern censuses, these records offered the government essential information for planning representation, taxation, and resource allocation.
For genealogists, historians, and family researchers, the 1840 Census Index is an invaluable resource. It allows us to trace family lines, locate ancestors, and study demographic changes across regions. Whether you’re exploring your own heritage or conducting academic research, this index provides a foundation for understanding life in America in 1840.