Category Archives: Census

Birmingham Historical Society, Birmingham Public Library, Census, City of Birmingham, family history, Genealogy, Research

Newspaper Database for Genealogical Research

At Birmingham Historical Society, we frequently get questions about how to research family histories. One of the best local resources is the Southern Archives at the Birmingham Public Library, and many more are linked on our website page, Other Resources.

However, we’ve recently become aware of another great newspaper resource HERE which includes 28 newspaper search tips along with step by step instructions to more effectively search ALL databases. This website also include births, divorces, marriage licenses, census reports etc. Note that the organization collecting this information, OurPublicRecords.org, is a privately owned and operated website and is not affiliated with law enforcement or a government agency.

While many public records are available online, it’s often a confusing and time consuming search. But you may also choose to search your state or county’s website and search for the Records Management or Public Records section. From there, you can usually find a link to an online database of public records. Another way to access public records for free is through the federal government’s website.

Good luck with your search!

Census, Elyton, Farming

What the Census tells us about “Old Elyton” plantations in Jefferson County

Elyton, currently a residential neighborhood in Birmingham containing the historic Arlington House, was the county seat of Jefferson County from 1821 to 1873. The censuses during that time provide documentation of the agricultural practices and sources of wealth during that period, as well as the incidence of enslaved labor. Birmingham Historical Society’s May 2021 Newsletter explores this topic and includes the transcripted data used in their research.