In addition to the census population count, there are a number of special censuses: Slave, Industry & Manufacturing, Agriculture, Mortality, Social Statistics, Union Veteran and Widow, Defective, Dependent and Delinquent.

Surnames began in Europe about the 11th century. They developed as trade increased. The four basic groups of surnames are the patronymic (based on the father's name), landscape features or place names, action or nicknames, and occupational or office names.

When researching cemeteries be aware that written records (burial registers, plot records) can give you additional information; just keep in mind that the facts you locate were provided by an informant and could be in error. Verify your information from other sources.