California, Pre-Statehood Census Records - FamilySearch Historical Records

What is in This Collection?
This collection includes census records for California from 1796-1798 for the following missions and presidios:


 * Branciforte
 * Los Angeles
 * Monterey
 * San Antonio


 * San Carlos
 * San Francisco
 * San Luis Obispo
 * San Jose


 * San Diego
 * Santa Barbara
 * Soledad

What Can These Records Tell Me?
Census records may include:
 * The names, ages and relations of all household members
 * The date of the event
 * The residence at the time of the event

How Do I Search This Collection?
Before searching this collection, it is helpful to know:
 * The name of the person
 * The birth date or age at the time of the event
 * The name of a family member

How Do I Analyze the Results?
Compare each result from your search with what you know to determine if there is a match. This may require viewing multiple records or images. Keep track of your research in a research log.

I Found the Person I Was Looking For, What Now?

 * Use the ages listed to determine approximate birth dates and find the family in additional census records
 * Search for vital records such as birth, marriage, and death on the state and county level
 * Use the information found in the record to find probate records
 * Use the information found in the record to find land and property

I Can’t Find the Person I’m Looking For, What Now?

 * If your ancestor does not have a common name, collect entries for every person who has the same surname. This list can help you find possible relatives
 * If you cannot locate your ancestor in the locality in which you believe they lived, then try searching a nearby locality
 * Try different spellings of your ancestor’s name
 * Remember that sometimes individuals went by nicknames or alternated between using first and middle names, or even initials

Research Helps
The following articles will help you in your research for your family in the state of California.
 * California Guided Research
 * California Research Tips and Strategies
 * Step-by-Step Research: 1850-1905 | 1905-Present

Citing This Collection
Citations help you keep track of places you have searched and sources you have found. Identifying your sources helps others find the records you used.