Census of 1880 (U.S. Federal Census) for:
1. Jeremiah EDGE: He is head of the household at age 54 and making a living as a farmer in Alabama. This source "Household Record" is found at familysearch.org. He was born in Alabama, but this record indicates that his father was born in Massachusetts. His mother was born in Alabama.
2. Elizabeth: Wife of Jeremiah, she is also age 54; she was born in Georgia. Her father was born in South Carolina and her mother in Georgia. Housework is her job!
3. James Edge is the oldest living child in this 1880 period. He is age 21 and was born in Florida. He works on the farm.
4. Brother of James Edge: Jessie Edge: Jessie is age 19 in 1880. He was born in Florida. Jessie helped his dad and brother working at homestead's farm.
5. Eliza Jane Edge: daughter of Jeremiah and Elizabeth, she is age17 and was born in Florida.
6. Elizabeth Edge: age 15. She was born in Florida.
7. Sally Edge: age 12 in 1880 and she was born in Florida.
8. Tommy Edge: age 7 was born in Florida. Beside his name, instead of being listed as a child of Jeremiah and Elizabeth, the census indicates "OTHER". Curious. What was his relationship to Jeremiah and Elizabeth?! Looking at other census records may reveal the answer?!
This census place was: Precinct 9, Walton County, Florida. The FamilySearch Library Film # is 1254132. The NARA Film # is T9-0132 and the Page Number is 480C.
Now! How to put this information in story format;
- We have the facts, but remind yourself, always, that the information on any document is only as accurate as the folks who are giving the information (answering questions, etc.) and as the person who is recording the info.💁❓
- Research the place details. https://www.americantowns.com/walton-county-fl/maps/
- Look for photos. Read historical info about Walton County, Florida in 1880 or "back in the day". If you have never been to the Southern States, look for books or publications via your local library or seek information (further resources) at familysearch.org. (example):
- Take a look at the census page before and after (some folks advise checking more than just one page before and after); is that surname repeated? Are other relatives living nearby to that original household?
- Can you think of other ways to turn your documents into a story?
- 18 suggestions: https://www.familysearch.org/blog/en/18-writing-tips-tell-stories/
