Search Strategies
Search Strategies
There are two basic methods for locating 1930 Census data using the 1930 Census Locator.
Soundex Method
If the person you are searching for lived in one of the 12 Soundex States, begin with the Soundex method.
Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky (only counties of Bell, Floyd, Harlan, Kenton, Muhlenberg, Perry and Pike), Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia (only counties of Fayette, Harrison, Kanawha, Logan, McDowell, Mercer, and Raleigh).
Geographic Method
If the person you are looking for did not live in one of the Soundex states, you can begin your search using the geographic method.
Since the 1930 census is available only on microfilm at this time, the 1930 Census Microfilm Locator is provided to help you start your research by identifying which rolls of Soundex or schedules to consult. Only by viewing the actual microfilm rolls will you be able to complete your research.
You may view census microfilm at a NARA facility or you may buy or borrow the microfilm.
Begin your search from the 1930 Census Guide by selecting a state or territory from the drop-down menu on the left. Then press continue.
Last updated March 9, 2002