Norway Census: Difference between revisions

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A census is a count and description of the population. Censuses have been taken by the Norwegian government and by ecclesiastical officials for population studies and taxation purposes.
{{CountrySidebar
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== Online Records ==
*[https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/ Digital Archives]
*University in Tromsø, [https://rhd.uit.no/ Registreringssentral for historiske data (RHD)]:
**[https://rhd.uit.no/folketellinger/folketellinger_e.aspx Simple search] in the 1865, 1875, 1900 and 1910 censuses
**[https://rhd.uit.no/folketellinger/folketellinger_avansert.aspx Advanced search] in the 1865, 1875, 1900 and 1910 censuses
*'''1801''' [https://www.familysearch.org/search/collection/3733603 Norway Census, 1801] at FamilySearch - [[Norway Census, 1801 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
*'''1865''' [https://www.familysearch.org/search/collection/3756102 Norway Census, 1865] at FamilySearch - [[Norway Census, 1865 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
*'''1870''' [https://www.familysearch.org/search/collection/4135961 Norway Census, 1870] at FamilySearch - [[Norway Census, 1870 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
*'''1875''' [https://www.familysearch.org/search/collection/1529106 Norway Census, 1875] at FamilySearch - [[Norway Census, 1875 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images; incomplete
*'''1875''' [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-20236/norway-1875-sailors-seamen-census?s=275764761 Norway, 1875 Sailors and Seamen Census] at MyHeritage — index($)
*'''1891''' [https://www.familysearch.org/search/collection/4067726 Norway, Census, 1891] at FamilySearch - [[Norway, Census, 1891 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images
*'''1900''' [https://www.familysearch.org/search/collection/3744863 Norway, Census, 1900] at FamilySearch - [[Norway, Census, 1900 - FamilySearch Historical Records|How to Use this Collection]]; index and images


Census records can provide information about a person's family relationships, age, year of birth, birthplace, and property. Census records are especially valuable because they list a large portion of the population. They can provide information when all or portions of other records are missing. Generally, you will find more complete family information in more recent censuses, which can be particularly helpful in identifying birthplaces. Use the information with caution, however, since some information may be incorrect.
==Introduction==
A census is a count and description of the population. Censuses have been taken by the Norwegian government and by ecclesiastical officials for population studies and taxation purposes. Census and census-like records are found from the 1500s-2000. After 1900, a national census was taken every 10 years until 2000. Access to national censuses is restricted by law for a period of 100 years after the date of enumeration.


''Aslak Bolts jordebok'' is a publication of the first census taken in Norway. It was taken about 1430 by Aslak Bolt (1377-1450) for economic reasons, as the Catholic church was in debt. The Black Death had ravaged the country, and several of the farms were left desolate. Properties were to be indexed so taxes could be assessed. The index includes the value of each property, taxes paid (or not), and the name(s) of the owners. There is also an index by given-name and place-name in the back of the book. This particular index includes names of estates (farms) that were under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop in Nidaros (now Trondheim city in Norway). This book does not include all the localities of Norway, but it does include properties in Northern Norway, Trøndelag, and the north west coast of Norway. The old Norse language is listed on the left page, and a translation to the modern Norwegian language is listed on the right page.
Many municipalities also created censuses of their residents. These are usually available at the city archives or the [[Norway Archives and Libraries#Regional Municipal Archives|regional state archives]]. As a general rule these are only restricted for a period of 60 years.


''Aslak Bolts jordebok'' was produced from the original book, from the Münchensamlingen (München Collection) in Riksarkivet in Oslo, and is in such poor condition that it is no longer available for the general public.
Usually the term census is applied to three record types:
*''Manntall'' - Usually lists of males only, sometimes recorded for purposes of enrollment in military service
*''Skattemantall''  - Tax lists which may include only specific parts of the populace
*''Folketellinger'' - Complete enumerations of the population


Jørgensen, Jon Gunnar.'' Aslak Bolts jordebok (Aslak Bolt's Land Book).'' Oslo, Norway: Riksarkivet, 1997. (FHL book 948.4 R2b)
Census records may provide information about a person's:
*Name
*Age
*Family relationships
*Year of birth
*Birthplace
*Physical health (deaf, dumb, mute, etc.)


=== Census Records, 1664 to the Present ===
Census records are especially valuable because they list a large portion of the population. They provide information when records (or portions of records) are missing. Generally, you will find more detailed family information in more recent censuses. The census records identify birthplaces beginning in 1865. Use the information with caution, however, since some information may be incorrect. Remember the census records are secondary sources!


Census records were taken in Norway between 1664 and 1666, in 1701, in the mid-1700s (sjeleregister) and in 1801. Although census records were completed between 1801 and 1865, these have not been kept for the entire country. Some of these census only list statistical information, while others are comparable to the 1801 census. These censuses are generally listed in the Family History Library Catalog on the parish level. Census records for 1865, 1875, and 1900 are nearly complete for the entire country and give helpful genealogical information.
== Records Prior to 1600 ==
=== Aslak Bolts jordebok ===
This the first census-like registration in Norway. It was made about 1430 by Aslak Bolt (1377-1450), Archbishop of Nidaros. The registration was made for economic reasons as the Catholic church, which was the official religion of Norway at the time, was in serious debt. The Black Death had ravaged the country, and many farms were left desolate. Close to 2/3 of the Norwegian population had perished.  


In the latter 19th century, census records were taken every ten years. Census records from 1910 to the present are not available at the Family History Library.
All properties were registered so taxes could be assessed. The registration includes the value of each property, amount of taxes paid (or not), and the name(s) of the owners. As the registration only applied to the archdioces of Nidaros it only include properties in Møre og Romsdal, Sør-Trøndelag, Nord-Trøndelag, and Nordland counties.  


The following types of information are in these censuses:
The first printed edition of was published by Peter Andreas Munch in 1852. A second version was produced in 1997 by the National Archives of Norway from the original manuscript in the Münchensamlingen (München Collection) in Riksarkivet in Oslo. The manuscript is in such poor condition that it is not available to the general public. In the print version the handwritten manuscript is shown on the left page, and a modern Norwegian language translation is given on the right page. The published version also includes an index by given-name, and place-name.


'''1664 to 1666: ''' Two censuses were taken, one clerical and one civil. Generally, only the names and ages of the head of household and all male family members over age 12 are listed. These censuses cover the rural areas only. For some parts of Norway all or part of the census is missing.
*The original manuscript has been microfilmed and scanned by the National Archives of Norway and is available on the Digital Archive at [https://media.digitalarkivet.no/db/contents/36327 RA, Riksarkivets diplomsamling, F13/F13b/L0013: NRA dipl. München papir, nr. 4292 Aslak Bolts jordebok., 1430-1439]
*The 1852 edition is available online at the Nasjonalbibliotek,  [https://www.nb.no/items/URN:NBN:no-nb_digibok_2006111500039 Aslak Bolts Jordebog : Fortegnelse over Jordegods og andre Herligheder tilhørende Erkebiskopsstolen i Nidaros]
*A copy of the 1997 printing is available at the FamilySearch Library: Jørgensen, Jon Gunnar. ''Aslak Bolts jordebok''. Oslo, Norway: Riksarkivet, 1997 {{FSC|729246|item|disp=FS Catalog book 948.4 R2b}}.


'''1701'''<nowiki>:  All male members of the family are listed by name and age. The census covers the rural areas only. The census is missing for some parts of the country.</nowiki>
== 1600s  ==
'''1664 to 1666: ''' Two censuses were taken, one clerical done by the local priest, and one civil done by the local bailiff. These are called the "Titus Bülche censuses" named after [https://lokalhistoriewiki.no/wiki/Titus_B%C3%BClche Titus Bülche], a Danish official with responsibilities over church affairs who ordered these enumerations. These censuses cover the rural areas only. For some parts of Norway all or part of the census is missing. Finnmark county was not included. Records are organized by county, parish, and then by farm. The 1664 census only included males over the age of 12, but in the 1666 census younger boys may also be included.  


'''Mid-1700s: ''' During this time period, a clerical census called a register of souls (sjeleregister) was taken. It is more of a true census than the previous ones are, listing all members of a family and all persons living with the family. Much of this record has been lost, but it has been preserved for some areas. Rogaland is the only county for which the entire census is preserved. Some registers of souls can be found in the parish registers.
The following information was given:  
*names and ages of the head of household
*all male family members over age 12


These censuses are also available on the Internet at:<br />[http://digitalarkivet.uib.no/cgi-win/WebFront.exe?slag=vis&tekst=meldingar http://digitalarkivet.uib.no/cgi-win/WebFront.exe?slag=vis&amp;tekst=meldingar]
These records are available on microfilm at the FamilySearch Library with the titles [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/308091 Fogd og sorenskrivers manntall 1664-1666] and [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/54370 Sogneprestenes manntall 1664-1666]. Scanned images are online at the Norway Digital Archives with the title [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&archive_key=&jt%5B%5D=39 1663-1666 Church male census].
The baliff's census 1664-1666 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&jt%5B%5D=40 Bailiff's census for Norway]


After finding this site, click on "Folketellinger" (census) at the bottom of your screen. More information is continually being made available online; therefore, it is a good idea to search this site often.
*1576-1945 [https://media.digitalarkivet.no/db/contents/131037 various records for southern Norway]


'''1801: ''' This census lists all family members and all persons living with the family, including their relationships, ages, and occupations. This census includes those living in the cities. It is available on microfilm and microfiche at the Family History Library. The microfiche version is typed and indexed by given name and farm name. This census is also available on the Internet at:
Other census records from the 1600's were:
*''Koppskattemanntall'' 1645/1646: a tax on persons
*''Quægskatten'' 1657/1658, which was a tax on cattle


[http://digitalarkivet.uib.no/cgi-win/WebFront.exe?slag=vis&tekst=meldingar http://digitalarkivet.uib.no/cgi-win/WebFront.exe?slag=vis&amp;tekst=meldingar]
== 1700s/1900s ==
'''1701:''' This census was taken September 1701, and includes all males age 1 and older. This census did not include Finnmark County or cities. Large portions of Agder County and the eastern part of Norway are lost. Scanned color images are available on the Digital Archives with the title [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&archive_key=&jt%5B%5D=38 Census (manntall) 1701]. As of August 2019 the census at Digital Archives is only partially indexed. A black and white microfilm copy is available at the FamilySearch Library under the title [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/290214 Manntall 1701, Norge : avskrift av kongelig befaling av den 26de juli 1701].


'''1801 to 1865: ''' Censuses were taken regularly between 1801 and 1865, but most of them were purely statistical. The census records that include more than statistical information have been microfilmed and are available at the Family History Library. The type of information in these censuses varies a great deal. They are listed in the catalog under:
'''Mid-1700s:''' During this time period, a clerical census called a "Register of Souls" (''sjeleregister'') was taken. It is more of a true census than the previous ones listing all members of a family and all persons living with the family. Most of these records have been lost, but they have been preserved for some areas. Rogaland is the only county for which the entire 1758 census is preserved. Some "Register of Souls" can be found in the parish registers.


NORWAY, [COUNTY], [PARISH] - CENSUS - [YEAR].
Other noteworthy census and Sjeleregister records include the following:


'''1865, 1875, and 1900'''<nowiki>:  In addition to the information given in the 1801 census, these later censuses also list a person's birthplace. Additional information includes:</nowiki>
'''Oslo '''
*1857-1870 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&m%5B%5D=0301 Sjeleregister for Kristiania Tuksthus, images]
'''Østfold'''
*1772 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=01 Sjeleregister for Halden, images]
'''Akershus'''
*1600-1780 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=02 Sjeleregister for Nannestad and Nes, images]
'''Hedmark'''
*1732 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=04 Sjeleregister for Vang, index]
'''Oppland'''
*1736 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=05 Sjeleregister for Vågå, images]
'''Buskerud'''
*1778-1792 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=06 Sjeleregister for Strømsø, images]
*1711 census [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/2/100694 Kongsberg silverwerk, index]
*1711 census [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/2/100692 widows/spouses at Kongsberg silverworks, index]
*1722 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/2/100688 pensjonister- People receiving a pension at the Kongsberg silver works, index]
*1723 census [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/2/100689 of people at the Kongsberg silverworks, index]
*1723 census [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/2/100690 of officials at the Kongsberg silverworks, index]
*1724 census [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/2/100693 Kongsberg silverwork, index]
*1765 census [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/2/100695 Kongsberg silverwork, index]
*1765 census [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/2/100691 officials at the Kongsberg silverwork, index]
'''Telemark'''
*1729 census: [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&m%5B%5D=0805 Porsgrunn images]
*{{FSC|683662|item|disp=1730 Sjeleregister for Tinn prestegjeld, images}}
*1725-1784 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=08 Sjeleregister for Eidanger, Hjartdal, Porsgrunn, Bratsbergkleiva, Kviteseid, Seljord, Tinn, images]
'''Aust-Agder'''
*1783-1791 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=09 Sjeleregister for Arendal, Gjerstad, Øyestad, images]
'''Vest-Agder'''
*1758 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=10 Sjeleregister for Lund and Sokndal, images]
'''Rogaland'''
*1758 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=11 Sjeleregister for Rogaland, image and index]
'''Bergen'''
*1645 Census [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/654711?availability=Family%20History%20Library Bergen city census/tax record, images]
'''Hordaland'''
*1738-1811 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=12 Sjeleregister for Hamre, Haus, Hosanger, Seim, Kvam, Kvinnherad, Lindås, Os, Skånevik, Stord, Strandebarm, Jondal, Ullensvang, Suldal, Fjellberg, and Hamre, image and index]
'''Sogn og Fjordane'''
*1759-1789 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=14 Sjeleregister for Askvoll, Aurland, Eid, Førde, Gulen, Hafslo Indre Holmedal (Gaular), Hornindal, Innvik, Jostedal, Jølster, Leikanger, Lærdal, Sogndal, Vik, Ytre Holmedal (Flaler), image and index]
'''Møre og Romsdal'''
*1756-1803 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=15 Sjeleregister for Haram, Borgund, Norddal, Geiranger, Hjørundfjord, Sunnylven, Vanylven, Syvde, Volda and Ørsta, image and index]
*1664-1666, 1701 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&sc%5B%5D=mt&c%5B%5D=15 census for Møre pg Romsdal, image, index]
*1835, 1845 [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/618753?availability=Family%20History%20Library Census for Kristiansund, images]
*1825, 1835, 1845, 1855 [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/618756?availability=Family%20History%20LibraryCensus for Kvernes parish, images]
'''Sør-Trøndelag'''
*1794-1827 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=16 Sjeleregister for Bjørnør, Fosen, and Nidaros, images]
*1796 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&m%5B%5D=1601 Sjeleregister for Trondheim, images]
*1753-1827 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&r%5B%5D=4 Sjeleregister for Bjørnør, Fosen, Grong, Harran, Nidaros stift, Overhalla, Verdal, Vuku, image and index]
*1925 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&jt%5B%5D=15&m%5B%5D=1601 Municipal Census for Trondheim, index]
'''Nord-Trøndelag'''
*1753-1809 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=17 Sjeleregister for Overhalla, Vuku i Verdal, Verdal, Nidaros Stift, Grong og Harran, index]
*1755 census for Inderøy administrative district - available at Digital Archives: [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/census/search/LFOT/62547 Mandtall Over Alle Af Bonde Standen Udj Inderøens Tinglaug For 1755, index]
*1776 census for Ytterøy administrative district - available at Digital Archives: [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/census/search/LFOT/65881 Mandtal Over Alle Mennisker udi Ytterøens Tinglav Pro Anno 1776, index]
*1791 census for Ytterøy  - available at Digital Archives: [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/census/search/LFOT/65882 Local census 1791 for Ytterøy, index]
*1795-1797 [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/633234?availability=Family%20History%20Library Sjeleregister for Verdal, image]
*1797 Census for the local parishes Ytterøy and Mosvik - available at Digital Archives: [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/census/search/LFOT/65883 Mandtall Over Tiæneste Folkene og de Øvrige Menisker i Ytterøe og Mosvig Sogner Pro 1797, index]
*1810 Census for Ytterøy - available at Digitalarkivet of Norway [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/census/search/LFOT/65884 local census, index]
'''Nordland'''
*1749 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=18 Sjeleregister for Ofoten, Vågan, Folda and Bodin, image]
*1911 census [https://media.digitalarkivet.no/view/127514/1 over Fishermen in Hamarøy, Nordland, images]
*1912 census [https://media.digitalarkivet.no/view/127515/1 over Fishermen in Hamarøy, Nordland, images]
*1952 census [https://media.digitalarkivet.no/db/contents/138504 over Fishermen in Tjøtta kommune, Nordland, images]
'''Troms'''
*1749-1805 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=19 Sjelergister for Ofoten, Ibestad and Astafjord]
'''Finnmark'''
*1778-1813 [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources?s=&from=&to=&format=all&archive_key=&st%5B%5D=SJEL&c%5B%5D=20 Sjeleregister for Hammerfest, Kautokeino, Kistrand, Måsøy, Talvik, and Alta, image]
'''Abroad'''
*Citizens in Copenhagen after the city fire 1728 - available in print and on microfilm at the FamilySearch Library: [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/64273 Kjøbenhavns Huse og indvanere efter Branden, 1728]


* School districts within each parish
== 1800s ==
* Indexes to farms and localities
'''1801''' The 1801 census was taken on 1 February is available {{RecordSearch|3733603|online}}, on [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/821682 microfilm] and [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/108 microfiche] at the FamilySearch Library. The microfiche version is a typed index by given name and farm name. The census is searchable at [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/census/search/1801 Digitalarkivet] and [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-10814/1801-norway-census?s=209190711 MyHeritage] ($). Digitalarkivet has a page on [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/content/search-truncate searching with special search characters].
* Individual creeds, other than the national church
The census includes:
* Number of domestic animals on each farm
*All family members
* Farm production 
*All persons living with the family
*Their relationships
*Number of times married or widowed
*Ages
*Occupations
*Names of farms
*Those living in the cities


These censuses differ from one another in format but contain very similar information.
Censuses were taken regularly in '''1815, 1825, 1835, 1845 and 1855''' and are available under '''More Searches''' on the home page of the [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/ Digital Archives]. The censuses are labeled as incomplete since they were purely statistical.


These censuses are also available on the Internet but are not yet complete for the whole country. If a given parish is not listed in one of the following Internet addresses, check the other internet address, where it will most likely be listed:
'''1865''' The 1865 was taken on 31 December and is available on {{RecordSearch|3756102|FamilySearch}}. The records for Gol in Hallingdal, Oppland County is missing. This is a [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/content/abbreviations-census link to abbreviations] used in the 1865 census. The census is available at [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/61753/ Ancestry] ($), [https://www.myheritage.com/research/collection-10807/1865-norway-census?s=275764761 MyHeritage] ($), and at [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/census/search/1865 Digitalarkivet].


Digital Archive:<br />[http://digitalarkivet.uib.no/cgi-win/WebFront.exe?slag=vis&tekst=meldingar http://digitalarkivet.uib.no/cgi-win/WebFront.exe?slag=vis&amp;tekst=meldingar]
The census includes the following additional details:  
*School districts within each parish
*Indexes to farms and localities
*Individual creeds, other than the national church
*Number of domestic animals on each farm
*Farm production


(This site is in both Norwegian and English and includes several of the censuses for Norway, but only the 1801 and 1900 censuses are complete for the whole country).
'''1870''' The 1870 Census was taken December 31, 1870. It only covers the cities and seaports. There are many cites missing: Hølen in Vestby, Åsgårdsstrand, Hamar, Stathelle, Kragerø, Farsund, Sandnes, Stavanger, Vardø and Vadsø. The census is searchable at {{RecordSearch|4135961|FamilySearch}}, and at [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/census/search/1870 Digitalarkivet].


Census records are often available for various cities in Norway, such as an 1891 census for Bergen and an 1885 census for Fredrikstad. Not all of these censuses have been microfilmed, but you may consult the Family History Library Catalog to see what is available at the Family History Library.
'''1875''' The census was taken on 31 December 1875. The index for this census is incomplete.  Partial indexes are available at [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/census/search/1875 Digitalarkivet], [https://rhd.uit.no/indexeng.html The Norwegian Historical Data Centre], and {{RecordSearch|1529106|FamilySearch}}. This census is available on microfilm at the [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/404359 FamilySearch Library]. More information about this census is available at [[Norway Census, 1875 - FamilySearch Historical Records|Norway Census, 1875]].


=== Census Indexes ===
'''1885''' Like the 1870 Census this Census is also only for the cities and seaports, but it has an index, which is being put online! There were different forms used for the Lapps, Kveins, Finns, and persons of mixed nationalities. This census is available at the [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/census/search/1885 Digital Archives].


Search available indexes before using the actual census records. The information in an index may be incomplete or incorrect. If you believe your ancestor should have been in the census, search the census regardless of what you find in the index.
'''1891''' The 1891 census was taken on 1 January for the entire county and includes sailors. The people in the cities were asked to fill out the census forms themselves, while census takers went door to door in the country. More information about the census is available in the FamilySearch wiki article [[Norway, Census, 1891 - FamilySearch Historical Records|Norway, Census, 1891]]. The census is searchable at {{RecordSearch|4067726|FamilySearch}} and [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/census/search/1891 Digitalarkivet].


Street indexes are available for major cities throughout Norway. To use one you will need to know your ancestor's address for the time period of the census. You may search parish registers, letters, and other such records to find the address. A street index can help you find your ancestor faster in the census.
== 1900s ==
'''1900''' The 1900 census was taken 3 December, 1900 and enumerates 2,315,654 individuals. All inhabitants were registered as to where they were at that time. The 1900 census also included data of individuals on Norwegians ships in harbors throughout the world and at sea. The census was kept on different forms. It contains 25,865 persons on 2,628 ships. Unfortunately, the 1900 census is not complete as some lists have been lost. More information about the census is available in the wiki article [[Norway, Census, 1900 - FamilySearch Historical Records]].


'''1801 Index: ''' All of the existing 1801 census has been indexed. Two indexes exist for each parish: the first is organized according to the names of the farms and the second according to the given name of each person living in the parish. Each county also has two indexes: one by given name and one by surname. To search the 1801 index, you will need to know the county in which your ancestor lived. These indexes can be found in the Family History Library Catalog under:
Sections missing from the census are:
*Bærum herred in Akershus (Vestre Bærum prestegjeld, 3,219 persons)
*Risør kjøpstad in Aust-Agder (2 of 3 districts, 2,249 persons)
*Siredalen herred in Vest-Agder (all, 1,644 persons)
*Skien kjøpstad in Telemark (93 households from Districts 1-29 + all of disticts 30-35, about 3,000 persons)
*Tysnes herred in Hordaland (District 3, 589 persons)
*Also various lists of persons for the whole country. For example, 70 households in Bergen and about 50 in Trondheim are missing.


NORWAY, [COUNTY] - CENSUS - 1801 - INDEXES<br />NORWAY, [COUNTY],[PARISH] - CENSUS - 1801
The census is available online at the [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/census/search/1900 Digital Archives], the  [https://rhd.uit.no/indexeng.html The Norwegian Historical Data Centre], [https://www.ancestry.com/search/collections/60604/ Ancestry.com ($)], and on microfilm at [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/365719 the FamilySearch Library]. A list of [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/content/abbreviations-census abbreviations] used in the 1900 census with their meaning is found at Digitalarkivet.


'''''''Later Census Indexes'''.  There are additional indexes for various parishes. These indexes are usually organized by given name and surname. To see if there are indexes from the area you are interested in, check the Family History Library Catalog under one of the following:
'''1910''' The 1910 census includes 2,475,248 individuals and adds the full birth date. It has not been microfilmed and is not available at the FamilySearch Library. However, it has been put online as a database at both the  [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/ Digital Archives] and [https://rhd.uit.no/folketellinger/folketellinger_e.aspx The Norwegian Historical Data Centre].  More information about the census is available in the wiki article [[Norway, Census, 1910 - FamilySearch Historical Records]].
 
'''1920''' The 1920 census became available in 2020 with indexing by the National Archives of Norway. Indexing for Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim has not been completed. Images are available online at the [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/search/sources Digital Archives]. The completed indexes can be searched at the Digital Archives' site, [https://www.digitalarkivet.no/en/census/search/1920 Search for persons in the 1920 Census].
 
The complete census consists of four separate forms.
#''Hovedliste'' (Main list) for each herred identifying the ''tellingkrets nummer'' (enumeration district number), ''tellingkrets navn'' (enumeration district name), the enumerator, and the number of permanent residents (''fast bosatt'') and number present (''tilstedeværende'')
#''Kretslist'' (District list) identifying the enumeration district number and name; the ''Hus- og husholdningslist'' (household list number), ''Gård'' (farm) and ''bruk'' (sub-farm or croft) number, ''bostedets eller beboerens navn'' (the name of the residence or occupant), and the number of residents
#''Hus- og husholdningslist'' (House and household list) giving the ''gard'', ''bruk'', and ''bostedets navn'', with statistical information about the residence.
#''Personseddel'' (Person sheets) with the particulars of that person
'''Personseddel 1920'''
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Nr. !! Norwegian !! English
|-
| 1. || Fullt Navn || Full Name
|-
| 2. || Mandkjøn, Kvindekjøn || Male, Female
|-
| 3. || Fødselsdag __ i året __ || Birth date __ in the year __
|-
| 4. || Fødested || Birthplace
|-
| 5a || Ugift, Gift, Enke, Enkemann, Separert efter bivilling, Lovlig fraskilt || Unmarried, Married, Widowed, Widower, Separated by dowry, Legally divorced
|-
| 5b || For gifte kvinner: Når gift? Samlet antal barn i ekteskapet? Herav i live? Oplysningene gjelder '''nuværende ekteskap''' || For married women: When married? Total number of children in the marriage? Of which live? The information applies to '''current marriage'''
|-
| 6. || Levevei (hovederhvervet) || Way of life (main occupation)
|-
| 7a || Hvis De arbeider for andre (som funksjonær, arbeider o.s.v.): Hvem arbeider De for? || If you work for others (such as a salaried employee, worker, etc.): Who do you work for?
|-
| 7b || Hvis De driver egen virksomhet: Anvender De leiet arbeidshhelp (ja eller nei)? || If you run your own business: Do you use hired work assistance (yes or no)?
|-
| 8. || Bierhverv (eller biinntekt) || Side occupation (or side income)
|-
| 9. || For alle som vesentlig forsørges av andre: Angi forsørgerens hovederhverv nøiaktig || For all those who are significantly supported by others: State the provider's main occupation accurately
|-
| 10a || Blind / Døvstum / Sinnssyk / Andssvak / Legemlig vanfør / Syk || Blind / Deaf and dumb / Insane / Mentally ill / Physically disabled / Sick
|-
| 10b || Er blindheten, døvheten o.s.v., vanførhen eller sykdommen: Antagelig medfødt eller i hvilken alder fremtrådt || Is the blindness, deafness, etc., the disability or the disease: Presumably congenital or at what age appeared
|-
| 11. || Arbeidsdyktig / Vesentlig nedsatt arbeidsevne / Helt arbeidsudyktig || Capable of work / Significantly reduced ability to work / Completely incapacitated for work
|-
| 12. || I hvilket land statsborgerskap: Norge eller ___ || Citizen of which country: Norway or ___
|-
| 13. || For alle norske som har været minst 2 år i Amerika: Hvilket år reist fra Norge? Hvilket år hjemkommet? || For all Norwegians who have been in America for at least 2 years: Which year traveled from Norway? What year did you return home?
|-
| 14. || Trossamfund: Statskirken eller ||  Religion: Lutheran or
|-
| 15. || Stilling i husholdningen: Hovedperson / Hustru / Sønn / Datter / Tjener / Losjerende: med full kost, med delvis kost, uten kost, Besøkende o.s.v. || Position in household: Head / Wife / Son / Daughter / Servant / Lodger with full board, with partial board, without board, Visitors, etc.
|-
| 16a || Er De fast bosatt i huset (ja eller nei) || Are you a permanent resident of the house (yes or no)
|-
| 16b || Var De tilstede i huset natt til 1. desember (ja eller nei) Hvis nei, antagelig opholdssted? || Were you present in the house the night of December 1 (yes or no) If no, your usual residence?
|}
== Microform Indexes ==
Search available indexes before using the actual census records. The information in an index may be incomplete or incorrect. If you believe your ancestor should have been in the census, search the census regardless of what you find in the index.
 
Street indexes are available for major cities throughout Norway. To use one you will need to know your ancestor's address for the time period of the census. You may search parish registers, letters, and other such records to find the address. A street index can help you find your ancestor faster in the census.
 
'''1801 Index''' All of the existing 1801 census has been indexed. (Holt and Dybvåg parishes in Aust-Agder county are missing; as well as Maridalen in Akershus county). 
 
Two indexes exist for each parish: the first is organized according to the names of the farms and the second according to the given name of each person living in the parish. Each county also has two indexes: one by given name and one by surname. To search the 1801 index, you will need to know the county in which your ancestor lived. These indexes can be found in the FamilySearch Catalog under:
 
NORWAY, [COUNTY] - CENSUS - 1801 - INDEXES<br>NORWAY, [COUNTY], [PARISH] - CENSUS - 1801
 
'''Later Census Indexes''' There are additional indexes for various parishes. These indexes are usually organized by given name and surname. To see if there are indexes from the area you are interested in, check the FamilySearch Catalog under one of the following:


NORWAY, [COUNTY], [PARISH] - CENSUS - [YEAR] - INDEXES
NORWAY, [COUNTY], [PARISH] - CENSUS - [YEAR] - INDEXES


=== Searching Census Records ===
== Searching Census Records ==
When searching census records, it is important to remember the following:
*Given names may not always be as complete as the name recorded in church records.
*There were no standardized spelling.  Most people spelled phonetically. Alternate spellings may use * as wildcard, or insert "|" between variant spellings. <br>
*Ages could be incorrect.
*Information may be incorrect. We do not know who gave the information to the census takers.
*Spellings of place names may vary.
*If you do not find a family at the expected address, search the surrounding areas.
 
When you find your family in one census, search that same location in earlier and later census records for additional family members. Sources that may give street addresses for large cities in Norway include Church records of christenings, marriages, burials and probate records.
 
A handout from the FamilySearch Library class, ''How to Search Census Records in Norway'' is available as a [[Media:SYLLABUS_Census_recod_Webinar_2014FS(1)_-_Copy.pdf|PDF file]].
 
== Signs and Symbols Used in the Indexes at the Digital Archives ==  
 
In the transcripts there will occur signs and symbols which signify special relations in the original source or the electronically registered version:
 
(??) signifies that the handwriting in the original is indistinct or illegible (e.g. 'Kristi??')
 
(@) is used as a separator between two alternative readings of the original when it is impossible to decide which is the correct one (e.g. 'Even@Sven')
 
(%) indicates stricken out text in the source. If a word or a sentence is stricken out it is marked with a % in front and behind the stricken out word (e.g. 'Peder%Hans%')
 
(!!) signifies that this information in the source must be wrong for obvious reasons (!! alone in a field means that the information is missing)


When searching census records, it is important to remember the following:
An asterik (*) after a piece of information, e.g. a surname, indicates that the information is not given in the original, but included by the registrator on the basis of the information regarding the surrounding persons in the source


* Given names may not always be as complete as the name recorded in church records.
(E:) indicates that the following note is that of the registrator and not to be found in the source
* Information may be incorrect.
* Spellings of names and places may vary.
* If you do not find a family at the expected address, search the surrounding areas.


When you find your family in one census, search that same location in earlier and later census records for additional family members. Sources that may give street addresses for large cities in Norway include Church records of christenings, marriages, burials and probate records.
[[Category:Norway]] [[Category:Census_records_in_Norway]]
[[Category:Census records by country|Norway]]

Latest revision as of 13:22, 22 April 2024


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Online Records[edit | edit source]

Introduction[edit | edit source]

A census is a count and description of the population. Censuses have been taken by the Norwegian government and by ecclesiastical officials for population studies and taxation purposes. Census and census-like records are found from the 1500s-2000. After 1900, a national census was taken every 10 years until 2000. Access to national censuses is restricted by law for a period of 100 years after the date of enumeration.

Many municipalities also created censuses of their residents. These are usually available at the city archives or the regional state archives. As a general rule these are only restricted for a period of 60 years.

Usually the term census is applied to three record types:

  • Manntall - Usually lists of males only, sometimes recorded for purposes of enrollment in military service
  • Skattemantall - Tax lists which may include only specific parts of the populace
  • Folketellinger - Complete enumerations of the population

Census records may provide information about a person's:

  • Name
  • Age
  • Family relationships
  • Year of birth
  • Birthplace
  • Physical health (deaf, dumb, mute, etc.)

Census records are especially valuable because they list a large portion of the population. They provide information when records (or portions of records) are missing. Generally, you will find more detailed family information in more recent censuses. The census records identify birthplaces beginning in 1865. Use the information with caution, however, since some information may be incorrect. Remember the census records are secondary sources!

Records Prior to 1600[edit | edit source]

Aslak Bolts jordebok[edit | edit source]

This the first census-like registration in Norway. It was made about 1430 by Aslak Bolt (1377-1450), Archbishop of Nidaros. The registration was made for economic reasons as the Catholic church, which was the official religion of Norway at the time, was in serious debt. The Black Death had ravaged the country, and many farms were left desolate. Close to 2/3 of the Norwegian population had perished.

All properties were registered so taxes could be assessed. The registration includes the value of each property, amount of taxes paid (or not), and the name(s) of the owners. As the registration only applied to the archdioces of Nidaros it only include properties in Møre og Romsdal, Sør-Trøndelag, Nord-Trøndelag, and Nordland counties.

The first printed edition of was published by Peter Andreas Munch in 1852. A second version was produced in 1997 by the National Archives of Norway from the original manuscript in the Münchensamlingen (München Collection) in Riksarkivet in Oslo. The manuscript is in such poor condition that it is not available to the general public. In the print version the handwritten manuscript is shown on the left page, and a modern Norwegian language translation is given on the right page. The published version also includes an index by given-name, and place-name.

1600s[edit | edit source]

1664 to 1666: Two censuses were taken, one clerical done by the local priest, and one civil done by the local bailiff. These are called the "Titus Bülche censuses" named after Titus Bülche, a Danish official with responsibilities over church affairs who ordered these enumerations. These censuses cover the rural areas only. For some parts of Norway all or part of the census is missing. Finnmark county was not included. Records are organized by county, parish, and then by farm. The 1664 census only included males over the age of 12, but in the 1666 census younger boys may also be included.

The following information was given:

  • names and ages of the head of household
  • all male family members over age 12

These records are available on microfilm at the FamilySearch Library with the titles Fogd og sorenskrivers manntall 1664-1666 and Sogneprestenes manntall 1664-1666. Scanned images are online at the Norway Digital Archives with the title 1663-1666 Church male census. The baliff's census 1664-1666 Bailiff's census for Norway

Other census records from the 1600's were:

  • Koppskattemanntall 1645/1646: a tax on persons
  • Quægskatten 1657/1658, which was a tax on cattle

1700s/1900s[edit | edit source]

1701: This census was taken September 1701, and includes all males age 1 and older. This census did not include Finnmark County or cities. Large portions of Agder County and the eastern part of Norway are lost. Scanned color images are available on the Digital Archives with the title Census (manntall) 1701. As of August 2019 the census at Digital Archives is only partially indexed. A black and white microfilm copy is available at the FamilySearch Library under the title Manntall 1701, Norge : avskrift av kongelig befaling av den 26de juli 1701.

Mid-1700s: During this time period, a clerical census called a "Register of Souls" (sjeleregister) was taken. It is more of a true census than the previous ones listing all members of a family and all persons living with the family. Most of these records have been lost, but they have been preserved for some areas. Rogaland is the only county for which the entire 1758 census is preserved. Some "Register of Souls" can be found in the parish registers.

Other noteworthy census and Sjeleregister records include the following:

Oslo

Østfold

Akershus

Hedmark

Oppland

Buskerud

Telemark

Aust-Agder

Vest-Agder

Rogaland

Bergen

Hordaland

Sogn og Fjordane

Møre og Romsdal

Sør-Trøndelag

Nord-Trøndelag

Nordland

Troms

Finnmark

Abroad

1800s[edit | edit source]

1801 The 1801 census was taken on 1 February is available online, on microfilm and microfiche at the FamilySearch Library. The microfiche version is a typed index by given name and farm name. The census is searchable at Digitalarkivet and MyHeritage ($). Digitalarkivet has a page on searching with special search characters. The census includes:

  • All family members
  • All persons living with the family
  • Their relationships
  • Number of times married or widowed
  • Ages
  • Occupations
  • Names of farms
  • Those living in the cities

Censuses were taken regularly in 1815, 1825, 1835, 1845 and 1855 and are available under More Searches on the home page of the Digital Archives. The censuses are labeled as incomplete since they were purely statistical.

1865 The 1865 was taken on 31 December and is available on FamilySearch. The records for Gol in Hallingdal, Oppland County is missing. This is a link to abbreviations used in the 1865 census. The census is available at Ancestry ($), MyHeritage ($), and at Digitalarkivet.

The census includes the following additional details:

  • School districts within each parish
  • Indexes to farms and localities
  • Individual creeds, other than the national church
  • Number of domestic animals on each farm
  • Farm production

1870 The 1870 Census was taken December 31, 1870. It only covers the cities and seaports. There are many cites missing: Hølen in Vestby, Åsgårdsstrand, Hamar, Stathelle, Kragerø, Farsund, Sandnes, Stavanger, Vardø and Vadsø. The census is searchable at FamilySearch, and at Digitalarkivet.

1875 The census was taken on 31 December 1875. The index for this census is incomplete. Partial indexes are available at Digitalarkivet, The Norwegian Historical Data Centre, and FamilySearch. This census is available on microfilm at the FamilySearch Library. More information about this census is available at Norway Census, 1875.

1885 Like the 1870 Census this Census is also only for the cities and seaports, but it has an index, which is being put online! There were different forms used for the Lapps, Kveins, Finns, and persons of mixed nationalities. This census is available at the Digital Archives.

1891 The 1891 census was taken on 1 January for the entire county and includes sailors. The people in the cities were asked to fill out the census forms themselves, while census takers went door to door in the country. More information about the census is available in the FamilySearch wiki article Norway, Census, 1891. The census is searchable at FamilySearch and Digitalarkivet.

1900s[edit | edit source]

1900 The 1900 census was taken 3 December, 1900 and enumerates 2,315,654 individuals. All inhabitants were registered as to where they were at that time. The 1900 census also included data of individuals on Norwegians ships in harbors throughout the world and at sea. The census was kept on different forms. It contains 25,865 persons on 2,628 ships. Unfortunately, the 1900 census is not complete as some lists have been lost. More information about the census is available in the wiki article Norway, Census, 1900 - FamilySearch Historical Records.

Sections missing from the census are:

  • Bærum herred in Akershus (Vestre Bærum prestegjeld, 3,219 persons)
  • Risør kjøpstad in Aust-Agder (2 of 3 districts, 2,249 persons)
  • Siredalen herred in Vest-Agder (all, 1,644 persons)
  • Skien kjøpstad in Telemark (93 households from Districts 1-29 + all of disticts 30-35, about 3,000 persons)
  • Tysnes herred in Hordaland (District 3, 589 persons)
  • Also various lists of persons for the whole country. For example, 70 households in Bergen and about 50 in Trondheim are missing.

The census is available online at the Digital Archives, the The Norwegian Historical Data Centre, Ancestry.com ($), and on microfilm at the FamilySearch Library. A list of abbreviations used in the 1900 census with their meaning is found at Digitalarkivet.

1910 The 1910 census includes 2,475,248 individuals and adds the full birth date. It has not been microfilmed and is not available at the FamilySearch Library. However, it has been put online as a database at both the Digital Archives and The Norwegian Historical Data Centre. More information about the census is available in the wiki article Norway, Census, 1910 - FamilySearch Historical Records.

1920 The 1920 census became available in 2020 with indexing by the National Archives of Norway. Indexing for Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim has not been completed. Images are available online at the Digital Archives. The completed indexes can be searched at the Digital Archives' site, Search for persons in the 1920 Census.

The complete census consists of four separate forms.

  1. Hovedliste (Main list) for each herred identifying the tellingkrets nummer (enumeration district number), tellingkrets navn (enumeration district name), the enumerator, and the number of permanent residents (fast bosatt) and number present (tilstedeværende)
  2. Kretslist (District list) identifying the enumeration district number and name; the Hus- og husholdningslist (household list number), Gård (farm) and bruk (sub-farm or croft) number, bostedets eller beboerens navn (the name of the residence or occupant), and the number of residents
  3. Hus- og husholdningslist (House and household list) giving the gard, bruk, and bostedets navn, with statistical information about the residence.
  4. Personseddel (Person sheets) with the particulars of that person

Personseddel 1920

Nr. Norwegian English
1. Fullt Navn Full Name
2. Mandkjøn, Kvindekjøn Male, Female
3. Fødselsdag __ i året __ Birth date __ in the year __
4. Fødested Birthplace
5a Ugift, Gift, Enke, Enkemann, Separert efter bivilling, Lovlig fraskilt Unmarried, Married, Widowed, Widower, Separated by dowry, Legally divorced
5b For gifte kvinner: Når gift? Samlet antal barn i ekteskapet? Herav i live? Oplysningene gjelder nuværende ekteskap For married women: When married? Total number of children in the marriage? Of which live? The information applies to current marriage
6. Levevei (hovederhvervet) Way of life (main occupation)
7a Hvis De arbeider for andre (som funksjonær, arbeider o.s.v.): Hvem arbeider De for? If you work for others (such as a salaried employee, worker, etc.): Who do you work for?
7b Hvis De driver egen virksomhet: Anvender De leiet arbeidshhelp (ja eller nei)? If you run your own business: Do you use hired work assistance (yes or no)?
8. Bierhverv (eller biinntekt) Side occupation (or side income)
9. For alle som vesentlig forsørges av andre: Angi forsørgerens hovederhverv nøiaktig For all those who are significantly supported by others: State the provider's main occupation accurately
10a Blind / Døvstum / Sinnssyk / Andssvak / Legemlig vanfør / Syk Blind / Deaf and dumb / Insane / Mentally ill / Physically disabled / Sick
10b Er blindheten, døvheten o.s.v., vanførhen eller sykdommen: Antagelig medfødt eller i hvilken alder fremtrådt Is the blindness, deafness, etc., the disability or the disease: Presumably congenital or at what age appeared
11. Arbeidsdyktig / Vesentlig nedsatt arbeidsevne / Helt arbeidsudyktig Capable of work / Significantly reduced ability to work / Completely incapacitated for work
12. I hvilket land statsborgerskap: Norge eller ___ Citizen of which country: Norway or ___
13. For alle norske som har været minst 2 år i Amerika: Hvilket år reist fra Norge? Hvilket år hjemkommet? For all Norwegians who have been in America for at least 2 years: Which year traveled from Norway? What year did you return home?
14. Trossamfund: Statskirken eller Religion: Lutheran or
15. Stilling i husholdningen: Hovedperson / Hustru / Sønn / Datter / Tjener / Losjerende: med full kost, med delvis kost, uten kost, Besøkende o.s.v. Position in household: Head / Wife / Son / Daughter / Servant / Lodger with full board, with partial board, without board, Visitors, etc.
16a Er De fast bosatt i huset (ja eller nei) Are you a permanent resident of the house (yes or no)
16b Var De tilstede i huset natt til 1. desember (ja eller nei) Hvis nei, antagelig opholdssted? Were you present in the house the night of December 1 (yes or no) If no, your usual residence?

Microform Indexes[edit | edit source]

Search available indexes before using the actual census records. The information in an index may be incomplete or incorrect. If you believe your ancestor should have been in the census, search the census regardless of what you find in the index.

Street indexes are available for major cities throughout Norway. To use one you will need to know your ancestor's address for the time period of the census. You may search parish registers, letters, and other such records to find the address. A street index can help you find your ancestor faster in the census.

1801 Index All of the existing 1801 census has been indexed. (Holt and Dybvåg parishes in Aust-Agder county are missing; as well as Maridalen in Akershus county).

Two indexes exist for each parish: the first is organized according to the names of the farms and the second according to the given name of each person living in the parish. Each county also has two indexes: one by given name and one by surname. To search the 1801 index, you will need to know the county in which your ancestor lived. These indexes can be found in the FamilySearch Catalog under:

NORWAY, [COUNTY] - CENSUS - 1801 - INDEXES
NORWAY, [COUNTY], [PARISH] - CENSUS - 1801

Later Census Indexes There are additional indexes for various parishes. These indexes are usually organized by given name and surname. To see if there are indexes from the area you are interested in, check the FamilySearch Catalog under one of the following:

NORWAY, [COUNTY], [PARISH] - CENSUS - [YEAR] - INDEXES

Searching Census Records[edit | edit source]

When searching census records, it is important to remember the following:

  • Given names may not always be as complete as the name recorded in church records.
  • There were no standardized spelling. Most people spelled phonetically. Alternate spellings may use * as wildcard, or insert "|" between variant spellings.
  • Ages could be incorrect.
  • Information may be incorrect. We do not know who gave the information to the census takers.
  • Spellings of place names may vary.
  • If you do not find a family at the expected address, search the surrounding areas.

When you find your family in one census, search that same location in earlier and later census records for additional family members. Sources that may give street addresses for large cities in Norway include Church records of christenings, marriages, burials and probate records.

A handout from the FamilySearch Library class, How to Search Census Records in Norway is available as a PDF file.

Signs and Symbols Used in the Indexes at the Digital Archives[edit | edit source]

In the transcripts there will occur signs and symbols which signify special relations in the original source or the electronically registered version:

(??) signifies that the handwriting in the original is indistinct or illegible (e.g. 'Kristi??')

(@) is used as a separator between two alternative readings of the original when it is impossible to decide which is the correct one (e.g. 'Even@Sven')

(%) indicates stricken out text in the source. If a word or a sentence is stricken out it is marked with a % in front and behind the stricken out word (e.g. 'Peder%Hans%')

(!!) signifies that this information in the source must be wrong for obvious reasons (!! alone in a field means that the information is missing)

An asterik (*) after a piece of information, e.g. a surname, indicates that the information is not given in the original, but included by the registrator on the basis of the information regarding the surrounding persons in the source

(E:) indicates that the following note is that of the registrator and not to be found in the source

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