1850 Census Surname Index

The census takers’ writings were very hard to decipher, they spelled creatively, and the records are faded, blotched, and hard to read. In addition, this transcription has not been proofread and there are “irregularities” – so be creative in your searching! If you find someone of interest, note the township abbreviation (see list below) and the sheet number, and then click here to choose the appropriate township and sheet link to get to the transcriptions. They are stored at the USGenWeb Archives.

Download Surname Index Spreadsheet

This is the same file, use the format that works for you!

Links to Transcripts of Census Data, by Township

Instructions for using the census pages: Start with downloading the Index spreadsheet above. When you find your Surname in the sheet, make note of the township abbreviation and the sheet number. Then come back here and choose the link to take you to the Township and Sheet number you noted earlier.