The census of 1900 had so many new items that were recorded about the families. These were welcomed by all of us genealogists...especially considering the loss of the 1890 census. Some items asked for the first time: HOW MANY CHILDREN ARE YOU THE MOTHER OF? HOW MANY LIVING? (answer to question #2). This same question was repeated in the census of 1910. HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN MARRIED? (answer to question #4). This same question was also repeated in 1910. YEAR OF IMMIGRATION TO THE U.S.? (answer to question #3). Other items asked in 1900 were: Month and Year of birth, marital status, number of marriages, place of birth of father, place of birth of mother, number of years in the U.S., naturalization date, occupation/trade, attending school, can read, write, speak English, own or rent home. This is a lot of data to work with in piecing together a family history. The 1910 schedule asked pretty much the same questions as 1900. In addition it asked if they were a survivor of the Union or Confederate Army or Navy, if blind in both eyes, deaf or dumb. The forms used to survey Indians recorded also the tribe and/or band. Indexes (Soundex & Miracode) were created by the Bureau of Census for 21 States. With the exception of LA, which uses both, each State is indexed with either Soundex or Miracode. This index card system allows you to quickly check to be certain you have the right family prior to searching the actual census record. The index card contained the following data: name, age, state and county of residence, race, age and place of birth. Using the data recorded on the card, you can then find the census sheet. Those indexed in 1910 were: AL, AR, CA. FL, GA, IL, KS, KY, LA, MI, MS, MO, NC, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WVA. All other states were not indexed. Well, how did you do on the Census trivia? Now you should know all about the Federal Census. I hope you have found this useful and it will inspire you to dig into the census as a resource for your family history. If you ever need some census research help, please feel free to contact me privately at ROPETRACER@prodigy.net Barb