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Resources for Colored Conventions Research at the University of Delaware

Find information about the Colored Conventions and their delegates by searching for U.S. census records and city directories.

Census Records and City Directories

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U.S. Federal Census

The U.S. federal census has been conducted every ten years since 1790. Each census form asked different questions about individuals in households. Researchers can find valuable biographical information in these records.

Unfortunately, fire destroyed most of the 1890 census records. Some records are difficult to read. City directories can be used to supplement census record details.

City directories are similar to telephone books. They usually have a list of both residents and businesses.

Some directories have a description of the city, including street guides, government officials, churches, schools and organizations.