The first census in the U.S. took place on August 2, 1790, more than a year after President Washington's inauguration. The law required every household be visited. Since 1790, censuses have been taken every 10 years, each one containing different information. The 1890 census was virtually destroyed, and what little remained was badly damaged, in a 1921 Commerce Department Building fire. As a result, there is a 20-year gap (1880-1900) making it very difficult to find family during those dates. Censuses are not published until 72 years have passed, for privacy reasons. The 1950 census is the latest census to be published and was made available in 2022. If you are just starting your family search journey, check out National Archives Resources for Genealogists.
Michigan Territory was granted statehood on January 26, 1837 making Michigan the 26th state. Emmet County was formed in 1840 but was first named Tonedagana County. The name was changed on March 8, 1843 to Emmet by the Michigan Legislature.
Published U.S. censuses in Michigan for the years 1820, 1830, 1840, 1850, 1860, 1870, 1880, 1900, 1910, 1920, 1930, 1940, 1950 may be searched and downloaded to your device from the sites listed below. Or simply click on the year you want (above) and go directly to Michigan censuses. Censuses for Emmet County began in 1860. Prior to that, Emmet was enumerated as part of Mackinac County (previously known as Michilimackinac).
The links provided below will take you directly to blank census forms for the year indicated so you can see what information is provided. Or, you may click here for the blank forms index and additional forms which may interest you.
If you have questions, contributions, or problems with this site, email:
County Coordinator: Shannon Lanning
State Coordinator: Colleen Pustola
Asst. State Coordinator: Wayne Summers
If you have any questions or problems with this site, email the County Coordinator.. Please keep in mind the County Coordinator may not live in Michigan and cannot provide local research.
