Using the Kentucky 1930 United States Census
The 1930 United States Census for Kentucky is now available on microfilm. Released April 1, 2002, this census is an invaluable source for genealogists. It is the most informative census to date, and includes:
- the names of each person in the household
- their occupations
- age at last birthday and at marriage
- information on year of immigration to the U.S.
- languages spoken, and
- whether or not the family owned a radio.
The rolls for 1930 can be found in the bottom drawer of the same black cabinet that contains the Kentucky census microfilms for other years. If you need assistance, please ask at the Information Desk on the 1st floor of the Main library.
Research Tips for the 1930 Census:
The 1930 census for Kentucky can be found on microfilm reel numbers T626-731 through T626-781. These are also labeled as REEL 01 through REEL 51.
- NARA 1930 Census Microfilm Locator - From the National Archives and Records Administration. An excellent online tool for determining enumeration districts.
- NARA 1930 Census Frequently Asked Questions
- NARA 1930 Census Geographic Search Method- An in-depth discussion of enumeration districts and how to use them with the 1930 Census.
- Kentucky Atlas and Gazetteer- From the University of Kentucky. Comprehensive online Kentucky atlas with links to online maps helpful in determining enumeration districts.
- 1930 U.S. Census enumeration district descriptions for Kentucky can be found on microfilmreel number T1224-69. The corresponding enumeration district maps for Kentucky are also on microfilm and this film is currently on order.
For ancestors who lived in Louisville or Jefferson County, the Louisville City directories from the period can be helpful in determining the enumeration district for an ancestor's household.
These are available on microfilm. Also, check the Louisville city “Ward Boundaries” listing that is currently available at the Information Desk on the 1st floor of the Main library.
Maps
We now have a map of the1930 Census Enumeration Districts for Louisville and Jefferson County. This is located on the North wall next to the microfilm readers on the 1st floor.
Microfilm copies of directories from the 1930's era are also available for the following Kentucky cities
- Ashland
- Bowling Green
- Covington
- Frankfort
- Hopkinsville
- Lexington
- Maysville
- Middlesboro
- Owensboro
- Paducah
