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This data set includes an index to the 1850 census and scanned images of the actual records themselves — in the census taker's own handwriting! The index references almost 235,000 Illinois heads-of-household counted in this especially valuable census. For a complete breakdown of the counties covered, followed by the number of individuals recorded, click here.

Often referred to as the first modern census, the 1850 census employed improved techniques for collecting information. For the first time, enumerators were provided printed instructions that explained their responsibilities, census procedures, and the intent behind census questions. These instructions accounted for a greater degree of accuracy in the census record.