Historic Census Research and Data

The decennial census has been conducted every ten years since 1790. It provides a historical demographic record of who we once were and who we have become. The results are used to determine apportionment (the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives) and local political districts. These data are also used to determine the distribution of billions of dollars of federal funds to local communities. It also provides valuable data for demographic researchers, business and policy analysts, and community planners.