The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration will release
the 1930 Federal population census for the first time on 1 April 2002. At that
time, the microfilmed copies will be available for research at the National
Archives Building in Washington, DC, at thirteen of the National Archives regional
facilities across the nation, and through the National Archives rental program.
The 1930 census is the 15th Federal census mandated by the U.S.
Constitution, which states, "The actual Enumeration shall be made within
three Years after the first Meeting of the Congress of the United States, and
within every subsequent Term of ten Years, in such Manner as they shall by Law
direct...".
The 1930 census consists of 2,667 rolls of population schedules
and 1,587 rolls of Soundex indexes for 12 southern states, totaling 4,254 rolls.
Even though the statistical summaries collected by enumerators are made public
shortly after the census is taken, information on individuals and families is
restricted by law for privacy reasons for 72 years. [92 Stat. 915; Public Law
95-416; October 5, 1978].
For a complete listing of National Archives locations and opening
times, check the Web site at www.nara.gov/genealogy/genindex.html#regional/.
Dick Eastman Online
