In a message dated 5/4/00 5:52:23 PM, fcruble@accessus.net writes: << > A while back a bunch of us each took 10 pages of a (typed) transcript of the > 1850 census and re-transcribed it, this time electronically. The results are on >> It would be great if we could each tackle parts of a census and get it placed online. However, based entirely on ethical reasons, I personally would prefer to transcribe from the microfilm copies of the census unless someone is able to obtain the written permission of the author of the book(s). After all, the authors did spend a lot of time and money to place them in book form and I do not feel it would be appropriate for us to disregard their efforts by copying directly from their books. I had thought about this in the past but also realized that it would be a tremendous undertaking so I had not yet made my thoughts known. If we can get enough volunteers to assist in such a project, I would like to try this. I can make a simple template to transcribe the census information into your computer and then it could be sent to me to upload. I would also like to start with the census' that are not available in book form. Keep in mind that the 1850 census has over 19,000 people in Pike County so if we could get 24 volunteers for each of the years then each volunteer could take a township making the task a little easier. We would also need volunteers to proof-read the information that the original volunteer submitted. I am sure we have all looked at census records and realize that at times it can be very difficult to read the names. Now, I would like to hear any and all thoughts you have on this subject and then we can proceed from there. Also, if you would like to volunteer to transcribe or proof-read please let me know. Have a wonderful weekend, Barbara Freeman Pike Co ILGenWeb CC