Iowa Ancestors: Research in the Hawkeye State

Session: F326, Time & Date: Friday, 10 May 2019, 11 a.m.

AND

Iowa’s State Census: Genealogical Jewels

Session: S449, Time & Date: Saturday, 11 May 2019, 2:30 p.m.

Alice Hoyt Veen

Whether your ancestors were early Iowa pioneers or arrived in the state more recently, “Iowa Ancestors” provides the tools to begin your journey of discovery.

Friday’s introductory lecture includes a timeline of settlement and county formation; and an overview of Iowa’s pioneer, ethnic, and religious heritage. Discussion highlights records and resources specific to the “Hawkeye State.”

One of the most easily accessed and useful set of records is Iowa’s state census. During the territorial era through 1925, Iowa regularly counted her people. Of the twenty-two censuses authorized by the state legislature, fifteen survive for use by family historians. Each is unique and provides valuable insights into your ancestor’s Iowa experience.

Saturday’s lecture explores these “genealogical jewels.” We’ll investigate the timeline of territorial and state census enumerations, and identify which counties have extant records. Learn the motivations of the state legislature in various years and the information they chose to collect. Included are tips and techniques for interpreting census data and how to use what you find.

With “Iowa Ancestors” and “Iowa’s State Census,” researchers receive a glimpse of the state’s rich history and gain insights relevant to their own family’s Hawkeye heritage. As a native Iowan, I look forward to sharing my knowledge, experience, and love of all things Iowa! I am available for questions after each session and always enjoy hearing stories of Iowa families past and present.

BIO: Alice Hoyt Veen, a sixth-generation Iowan, has been a dedicated family historian for more than thirty years. She is a Board-certified genealogist and a full-time professional researcher and educator. She specializes in Midwestern and territorial records, with an emphasis on military history and Midwestern connections to American colonial roots.