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The 1900 U.S. Census was the twelfth federal census and provides one of the most detailed looks at life in New England at the turn of the century. For researchers, it is especially valuable because it recorded not only the names and ages of household members but also the number of years married, number of children born and living, and month and year of birth. This was the only census to include full birth months and years, making it a unique resource for genealogists.
In New England—covering Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont—the 1900 Census captures a region defined by both industrial growth and long-standing communities. It reflects the continuing impact of immigration, with large populations from Ireland, Italy, Canada, and other countries settling in factory towns and cities. It also documents rural families who maintained older traditions and livelihoods.
The 1900 Census Index for New England states offers a way to search across these records efficiently. Whether tracking a single ancestor or exploring broader patterns of population, the index helps uncover stories of work, migration, and family life in the early 20th century.