As I contemplate the anticipation of the release of the 1940 US Census tomorrow at 9am EDT, it will be 7am in my location and yet one can sense a feeling of excitement in the air even tonight.
We live at a time where 'pulling together' will allow us to achieve much and perhaps make it possible for millions to be able to locate their family members so much easier once the indexing is complete!
Imagine the impact on those who have never looked for their ancestors before as they hear about this release and decide to search for their ancestors. With the immediate methods to locate an individual a little difficult, indexing is going to make this search so much easier. NARA is to be commended for developing a treasure trove of finding aids on their website. They are going to have an "Opening Live Webcast event at 8:30am EDT" Here is the link to that live webcast.
The quote from http://the1940census.com regarding this release:
"NARA will
provide access to the images of the 1940 United States Federal Census for the
first time. Unlike previous census years, images of the 1940 U.S. Federal Census
will be made available as free digital images.
Upon its release, the 1940 U.S. Census Community Project, a joint
initiative between Archives.com, FamilySearch, findmypast.com, and other leading
genealogy organizations, will coordinate efforts to provide quick access to
these digital images and immediately start indexing these records to make them
searchable online with free and open access.
While the work of indexing begins tomorrow, the efforts of many will make this work go so much faster! We need the help of as many individuals as possible to hasten the ability to look for an individual by a name and not just an enumeration district.
Findmypast.com 1940 page has a wonderful write up about some of the highlights of this particular census, including the story and a picture of Sayed Mehren:
As a former census worker I can well imagine how the census worker must have felt as they were told his age was 128 years old!
In addition to this article, there is a great section on what life was like in the 1940s.
The1940Census.com site reminds us that those who are listed on these census pages are called the 'greatest generation' because they:
Survived the Great Depression
Fought in the Second World War
Innovated technology (TV, Microwave)
Sacrificed in the name of freedom
Practiced thrift and compassion
Understood hard work and industry
Help us to make this indexing go as quickly as possible and if you are at the many celebration locations enjoy the day!
Those who are the Family History Library will be treated to a buzz in the air as we welcome the 1940 US Census online! The festivities will include special bookmarks and cake for all who are there between 11am and 2pm (MDT)!
Comments and Suggestions are always welcomed!
Building Bridges
for All Generations!
Claire (*)
Timeless Genealogies
We're Your Family is "No. 1"
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claire@timelessgen.com
Sorry, I don't get up that early!
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