Historical Documents and Images
Discover primary sources that bring the history of the U.S. Census to life, including census questionnaires, maps, photographs, legislation, and congressional remarks. These resources are tied to activities that connect historical events and people to the collection and use of population data.
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1850 Census Questionnaire with Henry Clay’s EnumerationThis example of a filled-in questionnaire from the 1850 Census shows the enumeration of statesman Henry Clay.
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Excerpt of Congressional Remarks During the Census DebateThis image shows an excerpt of congressional remarks during the Census debate.
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Photo: The 1937 Unemployment CensusA photo of the 1937 unemployment census.
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Population of the United States – 1790 to 1800This map displays the population density of the United States according to the 1790 and 1800 Censuses.
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Remarks by James Madison on the Bill for the 1790 CensusThis document contains remarks by James Madison (then a Member of Congress) during the debate on the bill for the 1790 Census.
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Signatures to the “Declaration of Sentiments”The “Signatures to the Declaration of Sentiments” is a document signed by 100 of the attendees (68 women and 32 men) of the convention.
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The Census Act of 1790The original act which provided for the very first taking of the census in 1790, which was passed during the 2nd Session of the First Congress in March of 1790.
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The North Star Editorial – “The Rights of Women”The North Star, published an editorial on the intersection of the women’s rights and abolitionist movements.
Page Last Revised - September 1, 2026