Research Guides
U.S. Decennial Census: 1790
Decade by decade information about how to access and use U.S. Census reports.
About the 1790 census
Highlights
- 1st decennial census
- US population: 3,929,625
Questions Asked
- Name of head of family
- Free white males of 16 years and up
- Free white males under 16
- Free white females
- Slaves
- Other persons
Coverage
Map of coverage of the 1790 census.
For more information, see Map Guide to the U.S. Federal Censuses, 1790 - 1920 available in print via UW Libraries.
Population Schedules
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. 1950 is the most recent population schedule available.
- Heads of families at the first census of the United States taken in the year 1790
Print copy via UW Libraries
Microfiche via UW Libraries (all states are held under M-5003)
Online via US Census Bureau - List of free Black heads of families in the first census of the United States, 1790
Print copy via UW Libraries
Microfiche via UW Libraries
Online via HathiTrust - Population schedules of the first census of the United States, 1790
Online via Internet Archive - 1790 United States Federal Census Search Database
Online via Ancestry Library (only available with UW NetID)
Statistics
"Return of the whole number of persons within the several districts of the United States" features population data by race, condition of servitude, State, county, and town for the 1790 census. Also includes data by sex for free white persons, and by age group for males.
More Information from the US Census Bureau
- Measuring America: The Decennial Censuses From 1790 to 2000A 140-page report released in 2002 detailing the evolution and history of the census questionnaire from its inception in 1790 to 2000.
- Through the DecadesAn overview of the census from 1790 to 2010 that includes the history of census legislation, efforts to improve the count, and the technical innovations introduced to improve data collection, processing, and publication.
- Decennial Census by DecadeDetails events surrounding the decennial census. Click on the desired year.
Guides and Documentation
Census Compilations
- List of Census CompilationsCensus compilations usually cover large areas and can be very useful when comparing statistics over time.
Data Sources
- List of Raw Data SourcesRaw data files are intended to be loaded into statistical software for analysis and table creation. In some cases these files can be used with spreadsheet software as well.
- Social Explorer
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Maps and reports based on U.S. Census and other data sources, 1790 to present. - Explore Census DataPopulation, housing, economic and geographic information from a variety of surveys.
Contact
Need help? Call the Government Publications, Maps, Microforms & Newspapers help desk at (206) 543-4164 during desk hours. You can also consult the 24/7 Ask Us! reference service.