The 1850 census is a benchmark in genealogical research because it was the earliest available census that shows all of the names of the people in each household. Earlier Census records only show the Head of Household and number of people in each age group, so this in itself makes it an excellent source. It has been made even more useful to Hancock Co. researchers because Mr. Gibbs matched up the early marriage records of Hancock Co. with the census and provides maiden names for women who were married there. To contact the Hancock Co., Archives for more information, Click here!