Celebration Of The 1940 Census

When the U.S. Census Bureau conducted the 1940 census, America was poised on the brink of a great war and on the threshold of an era that radically changed the nation forever.  Monday marked the first public release of the 1940 census. On this occasion the Connecticut Society of Genealogists, the Connecticut Historical Society, and the New England Air Museum invite you to “Step Back into the 1940s!” to celebrate an era fast fading from living memory. 

The event will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on April 14, from at the Connecticut Historical Society at One Elizabeth Street, Hartford.

Researchers have been eagerly anticipating release of the 1940 census for what it will reveal about the individuals living in an America so different from today that it is hard to imagine. The country was just emerging from the devastation of the Great Depression. 

Hope was returning.  Americans were reluctant to be drawn into conflicts overseas, preferring to be left alone to build a new prosperity in peace based on a “New Deal.”  But that was not to be.  Wrenching change and astounding explosion of technology would thrust America into world leadership, and set us on a path previous generations could not possibly have envisioned.

Brief presentations at the April 14th event will highlight various aspects of the 1940s. You’ll see information about the 1940 census, hear reflections about growing up in the ’40s, and learn about Connecticut industries of the time.  You’ll also have the opportunity to tour the Connecticut Historical Society’s permanent exhibition, “Making Connecticut,” which includes sections of life in Connecticut in the 1930s and ‘40s.

Admission to the event is $10 per person.  Refreshments will be served.  For further information and to register please contact Sue Gallagher at 860-236-5621 x223 or email Sue_Gallagher@chs.org by April 7.

The Connecticut Historical Society (CHS) is a non-profit museum, library, and research and education center. CHS is Connecticut’s leading statewide collecting institution and learning center for social, family and cultural history.  Its mission is to inspire and foster life-long interest in history through exhibitions, programs and Connecticut-related collections.

The Connecticut Society of Genealogists is a dues-supported, non-profit organization.  Membership is open to anyone interested in family history.  Founded in 1968, CSG is one of the largest organizations devoted exclusively to U.S. genealogy and promotes the education, research, publication as well as the exchange and preservation of genealogical data.

The New England Air Museum, the largest aviation museum in New England, is owned and operated by the Connecticut Aeronautical Historical Association, a private, non-profit educational institution organized in 1959. This educational organization is dedicated to preserving and presenting historically significant aircraft and related artifacts, engaging visitors to understand aviation technology and history and inspiring students through innovative and hands-on educational programs.