05/13/2026
Let's talk Census Records!
"But the Census is Intrusive!"
We genealogists think not!
Below is the Canada Census Evolution for those that feel our census might be asking for too much.
Each year, the columns grew to add another fact about a family.
1851: Names, gender, age, birthplace/year, religion, family relationships, locations, original record images
1861: Added marital status
1871: Added origins and family numbers
1881: Added other household members
1891: Same details as 1881
1901: Added birthdates, race/tribe, immigration year, naturalization year
1911: Same details as 1901
1931: Most detailed public census — added languages spoken and whether the household owned a radio.
And that's more mild than England's questions.
England Census Evolution
1841: Names, ages (rounded for adults), gender, occupation, birthplace (county or not), addresses
1851: Added exact relationships, marital status, precise birthplaces and disabilities!
1861: Similar to 1851 with improved accuracy and household details. windows/fireplace etc.
1871: Added clearer employment and disability information.
1881: More detailed family relationships and occupations.
1891: Added number of rooms occupied (for smaller homes) and employer/worker status
1901: Expanded workplace/employment details and household conditions.
1911: The most detailed pre-WWI census. Which included years married, children born/alive/deceased, industry details, infirmities. --This is my favourite census to look at.
1921: Added workplace address, employer name, school status, orphanhood information.
And then sadly, The 1931 England & Wales census was destroyed in a fire, and no 1941 census was taken because of World War II.
So get on that website and fill out your details without fear! I promise it won't bite! And you won't hurt anyone but your descendants and your wallet if you refuse.
