This index is taken from a microfilm copy of the 1860 Federal Census of South Carolina. It contains every surname shown in the census (80,909) and gives the name, district, and page number where the name can be found. Since district boundaries were not always observed by the enumerators, a thorough check will be necessary to locate all entries for a single locality. The researcher should be aware of the fact that the manuscript schedules are handwritten on printed forms and are often difficult to read. Many enumerators spelled phonetically, and every possible spelling variation of a name should be checked. Page numbers apply to two consecutive pages and are found printed in bold black type in the upper right hand corner of the page. There are three categories of listings in this index. These are Head of Household; one person with surname different from surname of the Head of Household; and two or more persons with same surnames, different from surname of the Head of Household, only one of which is indexed. The asterisk has been used to distinguish these listings.

Genealogists and other historical researchers have valued the first two editions of this work, often referred to as the genealogist's bible."" The new edition continues that tradition. Intended as a handbook and a guide to selecting, locating, and using appropriate primary and secondary resources, The Source also functions as an instructional tool for novice genealogists and a refresher course for experienced researchers. More than 30 experts in this field--genealogists, historians, librarians, and archivists--prepared the 20 signed chapters, which are well written, easy to read, and include many helpful hints for getting the most out of whatever information is acquired. Each chapter ends with an extensive bibliography and is further enriched by tables, black-and-white illustrations, and examples of documents. Eight appendixes include the expected contact information for groups and institutions that persons studying genealogy and history need to find. ""

A listing from the 1850 census of approximately 8,160 free blacks and mulattos between the ages of 1 month and 112 years, providing name, age, sex, occupation, color, place of birth, household and dwelling number, and county.

Genealogical research in U.S. censuses begins with identifying correct county jurisdictions ??o assist in this identification, the map Guide shows all U.S. county boundaries from 1790 to 1920. On each of the nearly 400 maps the old county lines are superimposed over the modern ones to highlight the boundary changes at ten-year intervals. Accompanying each map are explanations of boundary changes, notes about the census, & tocality finding keys. In addition, there are inset maps which clarify ??erritorial lines, a state-by-state bibliography of sources, & an appendix outlining pitfalls in mapping county boundaries. Finally, there is an index which lists all present day counties, plus nearly all defunct counties or counties later renamed-the most complete list of American counties ever published.

"...A comprehensive compilation of records from the Edgefield County Archives pertaining to the purchasing and selling of slaves. The records include estate records, wills, inventories, appraisals, deed transfers, sheriff sales and other miscellaneous records, with approximately 29,000 listings and over 58,000 slave names. Many of the records contain information on gender, age, physical description, occupation and family relationships. The names are listed alphabetically by slave owner." --From press release.