13 December 2012

Four-Years-Old in 1870 and Worth $400

Year: 1870; Census Place: Rockingham, Windham, Vermont; Roll: M593_1627; Page: 94A; Image: 435

There are clues here. Potentially big clues. The unsuspecting family historian may think it odd that a four-year old has $400 of property as this 1870 census enumeration indicates.

Of course, the entry may be incorrect. Or it may be that the four year old, who has a different last name than the head of household and his apparent wife, has a deceased father from whom he has inherited $400 of property.

Only research will reveal the real story. But this $400  owned by a 4-year old warrants further research.