Compulsory registration of all persons in Canada, age 16 years and over, was in effect during the First World War and again during the Second World War. Information compiled included the name, address, age, date of birth, country of birth, citizenship, year of immigration, marital status, state of health and occupation of each registrant. Most Doukhobors in Canada accepted registration, albeit reluctantly. Others refused, regarding registration as another form of military conscription. The following article describes the National Registration records and where they may be located.
A National Registration was held throughout Canada during the First World War. This began with the establishment of the Canada Registration Board by Order in Council P.C. 404, dated February 23, 1918. The purpose of the registration was to provide an inventory of manpower available for military service and essential industries. All persons over age sixteen (with the exception of cloistered nuns, persons on active military service and inmates of prisons and asylums) were required to register on June 22, 1918. Each person was asked their name, address, age, date of birth, country of birth, citizenship, year of immigration, marital status, state of health and occupation. Registration cards were issued to each individual and they were required to carry them at all times. Failure to do so resulted in charges being laid.
Many Doukhobors were apprehensive about registration and suspected that it was a prelude to conscription which trampled the Doukhobors’ exemption from military service given them by Order-in-Council P.C. 2747 of December 6, 1898. To discuss their concerns the Doukhobors sent delegations to Ottawa. There, the Attorney-General assured them that their promise of exemption would be respected. The government also agreed to let Doukhobors appoint their own Deputy Registrars to register their people in all their districts. As a result, most Doukhobors reluctantly accepted the wartime measure of registration.
Unfortunately, the records compiled for the National Registration during the First World War were not retained. However, many individual registration cards have survived among family papers and memorabilia. Researchers who come across these cards should take steps to ensure their preservation.
1940 National Registration
A similar National Registration took place during the Second World War. This began with the passing of The National Resources Mobilization Act on June 21, 1940. All persons over age sixteen (with the exception of cloistered nuns, persons on active military service and inmates of prisons and asylums) were required to register on August 19, 1940. Each person was asked their name, address, age, date of birth, marital status, number and relationship of any dependants, country of birth, name of parents, citizenship, racial origin, year of immigration, year of naturalization, languages spoken, education, general health, disabilities, occupation, work experience by type, mechanical or other abilities, wartime circumstances and previous military experience. Registration cards were again issued to each individual and they were required to carry them at all times. Failure to do so resulted in charges being laid.
Again, most Doukhobors were apprehensive about national registration and suspected that it was a prelude to conscription. Again they sent delegations to Ottawa; again they were given strong assurances; and again Doukhobor leaders asked for an arrangement to register their own people, saying that many would not cooperate with a registration conducted by the government. At first government officials resisted the idea of a seperately conducted registration, but after repeated pleas they agreed. As a result, over 11,000 Doukhobors were registered. Only the Sons of Freedom Doukhobors, who numbered about 2,000 at this time, refused.
Every Doukhobor when coming before their Deputy Registrar was instructed to bring with themselves an affirmation proving that they were a member in “good standing” meaning that they had paid their dues to a recognized Doukhobor society. Consequently, many Doukhobors rushed to pay their dues to the Union of Spiritual Communities of Christ or to the Society of Independent Doukhobors. It is known that membership in recognized Doukhobor organizations rose markedly.
Copies of the 1940 National Registration records still exist. The information is confidential but may be requested from Statistics Canada for individuals who have been deceased for more than twenty years. Proof of death is required, either a dated newspaper obituary or a copy of the death certificate. Requests should also provide full name, place of residence in 1940, and identifying details such as approximate age. For online ordering information including a sample of the questionnaire form, see the Canadian Genealogy Centre. Inquiries may also be forwarded to:
Census Pension Searches Unit
Census Operations Division
Statistics Canada
B1E-34 Jean Talon Building
Tunney’s Pasture
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0T6
There is a fee to obtain the 1940 National Registration records. A standard fee of $48.15 ($45 search fee and $3.15 GST) is charged for each search undertaken that is successful in locating the requested record. Should the search fail, this amount will be refunded.
Bibliography
Hanowski, Laura, Tracing Your Saskatchewan Ancestors: a guide to the records and how to use them (Regina: Saskatchewan Genealogical Society, 2000).
Hawthorn, Harry B., The Doukhobors of British Columbia (Vancouver: The University of British Columbia, 1955).
Janzen, William, “The Doukhobor Challenge to Canadian Liberties” in Koozma Tarasoff and Robert Klymasz, Spirit Wrestlers, Centennial Papers in Honour of Canada’s Doukhobor Heritage (Hull: Canadian Museum of Civilization, 1995).
Munk, M., (National Archives of Canada) Memo to J. Kalmakoff Re: 1918 and 1940 National Registration, February 10, 1999.
Tarasoff, Koozma J., Plakun Trava, The Doukhobors (Grand Forks: MIR Publication Society, 1982).
This article was reproduced by permission in the Dove No.54 (Saskatoon: Doukhobor Cultural Society of Saskatchewan, Jan. 2002).
There is probably no other single group of records in existence which contain more information about our Doukhobor ancestors than census records. Censuses are an official government count and description of the people of an area and contain valuable genealogical data. Doukhobors have been enumerated in a variety of censuses, taken for a variety of purposes, including taxation, electoral representation, homestead entry and exemption from military service. The following guide describes Doukhobor census records in Canada and the United States in the 20th century – their historical background, dates, content, usefulness and reliability, and availability of original records and published indexes.
In accordance with The Census Act, the Government of Canada has taken a nationwide census of the population every ten years since 1871 (every five years since 1971). The purpose of the Canada Census is to determine population size and distribution, taxation, electoral representation, planning and resources. The first Canada census to include the Doukhobors is 1901. The most recent Canada census to be released to the public is 1911.
1901
Description
Fourth decennial census. Doukhobor population of 7,740. Census day of 31 March 1901. Enumeration was to be completed within thirty days. Census conducted by 8,800 census enumerators (Census Commission, Department of Agriculture). Census organized by province and within provinces by district and sub-district. Census lists the name, sex, color, relationship to head of household, marital status, date of birth, age at last birthday, place of birth, year of immigration, year of naturalization, nationality, religion, occupation, living on own means, employer, employee, working at trade in factory or home, months employed at trade, months employed at other profession, earnings for trade, extra earnings, months at school, ability to read, write and speak English, mother tongue and infirmities of each person. Census schedules are handwritten. Remarks: Doukhobor entries are found primarily in The Territories as well as Manitoba. The Doukhobor entries in this census are incomplete as 2,811 Doukhobors in 23 villages refused to be enumerated. Also, it contains duplicate entries for 1,021 Doukhobors in 9 villages; these villages were visited twice by census enumerators from adjoining sub-districts.
Originals
Library and Archives Canada holds microfilm copies of the original 1901 Canada census. These microfilms may be obtained directly or through interlibrary loan. Many libraries, archives, genealogical societies and LDS Family History Centers in Canada also hold microfilm copies. For an online Catalogue of Census Returns on Microfilm, visit the Library and Archives Canada website. Online Digitized Copies of the original 1901 Canada census are also available on the Library and Archives Canada website. Note: this database is searchable geographically (by province, district and sub-district) but not nominally (by name).
Indexes
The following indexes are relevant and useful for Doukhobors enumerated in the 1901 Canada census:
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. Index of Doukhobor Settlements in the 1901 Canada Census. This online index provides a comprehensive listing of Doukhobor settlement (villages, work camps, homesteads, households, individuals, etc.) organized by province, district, sub-district, page and microfilm number. Use this geographic finding aid to locate Doukhobors in the microfilm copies or online images of the original 1901 Canada census.
Automated Genealogy – 1901 Canada Census Index. This is a free, online index to every name enumerated in the 1901 Census of Canada with some personal data transcribed (name, sex, relationship to head of household, marital status, birth date and age) and links to Library and Archives Canada online digitized copies of the original census pages.
Alberta Genealogical Society, 1901 Census Index: Alberta and Saskatchewan. This is a free, online index to every name enumerated in districts 202-204 of the 1901 Canada census with some personal data transcribed (name, age, place and date of birth, district, sub-district, page and microfilm number) and links to district maps and Library and Archives Canada online digitized copies of the original census pages.
Alberta Genealogical Society, Index to the 1901 Census District of Assiniboia East No. 203 (Edmonton Branch, 2002). ISBN 1-55194-6-9. This book contains the name, relationship, place and date of birth, sub-district and page number for 44,000 individuals enumerated in the Assiniboia East census district No. 203.
Alberta Genealogical Society, Index to the 1901 Census District of Saskatchewan No. 205 (Edmonton Branch, 2002). ISBN 1-55194-6-9. This book contains the name, relationship, place and date of birth, sub-district and page number for 20,000 individuals enumerated in the Saskatchewan census district No. 205.
Ancestry.com – 1901 Canada Census Index & Images. This is an online index to every name enumerated in the 1901 Census of Canada with some personal data transcribed (name, relationship, place and year of birth, province, district, sub-district) and links to Ancestry.com online digitized copies of the original census pages. Note: paid subscription required.
1901 Canada census – sample entry.
1911
Description
Fifth decennial census. Doukhobor population of 10,651. Census day of 01 June 1911. Enumeration was to be completed within thirty days. Census conducted by 9,703 census enumerators (Census Commission, Department of Agriculture). Census organized by province and within provinces by district and sub-district. Census lists the name, place of habitation, sex, relationship to head of household, marital status, month and year of birth, age at last birthday, place of birth, year of immigration, year of naturalization, racial origin, nationality, religion, chief occupation, secondary employment, employer, employee, working on own account, place of employment, weeks employed at chief and secondary occupation, total earnings from chief and secondary occupation, insurance held at date, months at school, ability to read, write, spoken language, cost of education, blindness/infirmity of each person. Census schedules are handwritten. Remarks: Doukhobor entries are found in four provinces: Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia. The Doukhobor entries in this census are not fully complete as over 1,000 Doukhobors in British Columbia refused to be enumerated. The 1911 Canada census should not be confused with the 1911 Doukhobor village census, which is a separate and distinct census record.
Originals
Library and Archives Canada holds microfilm copies of the original 1911 Canada census. These microfilms may be obtained directly or through interlibrary loan. Many libraries, archives, genealogical societies and LDS Family History Centers in Canada also hold microfilm copies. For an online Index of 1911 Canada census microfilms, visit the Library and Archives Canada website. Online Digitized Copies of the original 1911 Canada census are also available on the Library and Archives Canada website. Note: this database is searchable geographically (by province, district and sub-district) but not nominally (by name).
Indexes
The following indexes are relevant and useful for Doukhobors enumerated in the 1911 Canada census:
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. Index of Doukhobor Settlements in the 1911 Canada Census. This online index provides a comprehensive listing of Doukhobor settlement (villages, work camps, homesteads, households, individuals, etc.) organized by province, district, sub-district, page and microfilm number. Use this geographic finding aid to locate Doukhobors in the microfilm copies or online images of the original 1911 Canada census.
Automated Genealogy – 1911 Canada Census Index. This is a free, online index to every name enumerated in the 1911 Census of Canada with some personal data transcribed (name, sex, relationship to head of household, marital status, birth date and age) and links to Library and Archives Canada online digitized copies of the original census pages.
Ancestry.com – 1911 Canada Census Index & Images. This is an online index to every name enumerated in the 1911 Census of Canada with some personal data transcribed (name, relationship, place and year of birth, province, district, sub-district) and links to Ancestry.com online digitized copies of the original census pages. Note: paid subscription required.
1911 Canada census – sample entry.
Census of the Northwest Provinces
In accordance with The Census and Statistics Act, the Government of Canada took a census of the population and agriculture in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta every ten years from 1906 to 1956. The purpose of this census was to track the high rates of population growth in the Northwest provinces. After 1956, this census became part of the Canada-wide census. The most recent Census of Northwest Provinces to be released to the public is 1916.
1906 Census
Description
First quinquennial census. Doukhobor population of approximately 9,300. Census day of 24 June 1906. Enumeration was to be completed within thirty days. Census conducted by 673 census enumerators (Census and Statistics Office). Census organized by province and within provinces by district and sub-district. Census lists the name, relationship to head of household, sex, marital status, color, age, birthplace, year of immigration, post office address and location and also all particulars relating to the farm land, crops and livestock of each person. Census schedules are handwritten. Remarks: Doukhobor entries are found in two provinces: Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
Originals
Library and Archives Canada holds microfilm copies of the original 1906 Census of Northwest Provinces. These microfilms may be obtained directly or through interlibrary loan. Many libraries, archives, genealogical societies and LDS Family History Centers in Canada also hold microfilm copies. For an online Index of 1906 census microfilms, visit the Library and Archives Canada website. Online Digitized Copies of the original 1906 Census of Northwest Provinces are also available on the Library and Archives Canada website. Note: this database is searchable geographically (by province, district and sub-district) but not nominally (by name).
Indexes
The following indexes are relevant and useful for Doukhobors enumerated in the 1906 Census of Northwest Provinces:
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. Index of Doukhobor Settlements in the 1906 Census of Northwest Provinces. This online index provides a comprehensive listing of Doukhobor settlement (villages, work camps, homesteads, households, individuals, etc.) organized by province, district, sub-district, page and microfilm number. Use this geographic finding aid to locate Doukhobors in the microfilm copies or online images of the original 1906 Census of Northwest Provinces.
Automated Genealogy – 1906 Census of Northwest Provinces Index. This is a free, online index to every name enumerated in the 1906 Census of Northwest Provinces with some personal data transcribed (name, sex, relationship to head of household, marital status, birth date and age) and links to Library and Archives Canada online digitized copies of the original census pages.
Alberta Family Histories Society – 1906 Census Transcriptions. This is a free, online index to every name enumerated in the 1906 Census of Northwest Provinces with some personal data transcribed (name, sex, relationship to head of household, marital status, age, birth place, immigration year, post office, province, district, sub-district) and links to Library and Archives Canada online digitized copies of the original census pages.
Ancestry.com – 1906 Census of Northwest Provinces Index & Images. This is an online index to every name enumerated in the 1906 Census of Northwest Provinces with some personal data transcribed (name, relationship, place and year of birth, province, district, sub-district) and links to Ancestry.com online digitized copies of the original census pages. Note: paid subscription required.
1906 Census of Northwest Provinces – sample entry.
1916
Description
Second quinquennial census. Doukhobor population of 6,009. Census day of 01 June 1916. Enumeration was to be completed within thirty days. Census conducted by Census and Statistics Office enumerators. Census organized by province and within provinces by district and sub-district. Census lists the name, military service, locality information, relationship to head of household, sex, marital status, age, birthplace, religion, year of immigration, year of naturalization, nationality, racial origin, whether can speak English, mother tongue, weather can read and write, occupation and employment of each person. Census schedules are handwritten. Remarks: Doukhobor entries are found in all three provinces: Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta.
Originals
Library and Archives Canada holds microfilm copies of the original 1916 Census of Northwest Provinces. These microfilms may be obtained directly or through interlibrary loan. Many libraries, archives, genealogical societies and LDS Family History Centers in Canada also hold microfilm copies. For an online Index of 1916 census microfilms, visit the Library and Archives Canada website. Online digitized copies of the original 1916 Census of Northwest Provinces are not available on the Library and Archives Canada website.
Indexes
The following indexes are relevant and useful for Doukhobors enumerated in the 1916 Census of Northwest Provinces:
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. Index of Doukhobor Settlements in the 1916 Census of Northwest Provinces. This online index provides a comprehensive listing of Doukhobor settlement (villages, work camps, homesteads, households, individuals, etc.) organized by province, district, sub-district, page and microfilm number. Use this geographic finding aid to locate Doukhobors in the microfilm copies or online images of the original 1916 Census of Northwest Provinces.
Ancestry.com – 1916 Census of Northwest Provinces Index & Images. This is an online index to every name enumerated in the 1916 Census of Northwest Provinces with some personal data transcribed (name, relationship, place and year of birth, province, district, sub-district) and links to Ancestry.com online digitized copies of the original census pages. Note: paid subscription required.
1916 Census of Northwest Provinces – sample entry.
Doukhobor Village Census
In 1899, the Government of Canada reserved several large blocks of land for Doukhobors to select homesteads. Over the next six years, entries were made for 2,383 Doukhobor homesteads comprising 422,800 acres of land. Much of this land was brought under communal cultivation by Doukhobors residing in villages. By 1905, however, a crisis arose when Community Doukhobors refused to apply for individual homestead patents. At the same time, a rush of new settlers demanded entry on the unpatented Doukhobor lands, still Crown property. In response, the Department of the Interior dispatched a team of homestead inspectors to inspect all Doukhobor lands, determine whether or not improvements had been made, investigate irregularities and conduct a census of Doukhobor villages pursuant to The Dominion Lands Act in 1905. A census revision was conducted in 1911 and 1918.
1905
Description
Doukhobor population of 9,198. Census conducted November 1905. Census conducted by J. Seale, D.C. McNab, J.B. White and J.S. Gibson (Homestead Inspectors, Department of the Interior). Census organized by Doukhobor reserve and within reserves by village. Census lists the name, age, sex, relationship to head of household and denomination (Community or Independent) of each person, the location of each homestead entered upon, the amount of cultivation on each homestead and the type and number of buildings, stock and equipment. Census schedules are typewritten. Remarks: Some parents gave false ages for their sons so that they would be eligible for homestead entry. Some Doukhobors refused to give their age. Scattered throughout the census are remarks about some of the persons.
Originals
Library and Archives Canada holds microfilm copies of the original 1905 Doukhobor village census. These microfilms may be obtained directly or through interlibrary loan. [Microfilm Reel Nos. T-15532 to T-15535]. The British Columbia Archives also holds microfilm copies of the census, however, these are not available through interlibrary loan. [Microfilm Reel Nos. B-14197 to B-14200].
Indexes
The following indexes have been prepared for the 1905 Doukhobor village census:
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. Index to the 1905 Doukhobor Village Census. This online index provides the Department of the Interior file number for each Doukhobor village enumerated in the 1905 Doukhobor village census. It also shows the National Archives of Canada and British Columbia Archives microfilm number of each village. Researchers can use this index to locate Doukhobor villages in the microfilm copy of the census.
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. Surname-Village Index for the 1905 Doukhobor Census. This online index provides a listing of surnames-by-village or villages-by-surname in the 1905 Doukhobor village census. Researchers can use this finding aid to locate families in the microfilm copy of the census.
Lapshinoff, Steve. List of Doukhobors Living in Saskatchewan in 1905. (Crescent Valley: self-published, 1996). ISBN 0-9689180-3-4. This 262-page book contains the name, age and relationship to head of household of over 9,100 Doukhobors living in Saskatchewan village settlements in 1905. Full bibliographic references and index.
1905 Doukhobor village census entry
1911
Description
Doukhobor population of 5,296. Census conducted July 1911. Census conducted by John Bowes (Inspector of Doukhobor Reserves, Department of the Interior). Census organized by Doukhobor reserve and within reserves by village. Census lists the name and denomination (Community or Independent) of each person. Census schedules are typewritten. Remarks: This census does not include Doukhobors located away from villages (on homesteads, in towns, etc.) in Saskatchewan nor those residing outside Saskatchewan. The 1911 Doukhobor village census should not be confused with the 1911 Canada census, which is a separate and distinct census record.
Originals
Library and Archives Canada holds microfilm copies of the original 1911 Doukhobor village census. These microfilms may be obtained directly or through interlibrary loan. [Microfilm Reel Nos. T-15532 to T-15535]. The British Columbia Archives also holds microfilm copies of the census, however, these are not available through interlibrary loan. [Microfilm Reel Nos. B-14197 to B-14200].
Indexes
The following index has been prepared for the 1911 Doukhobor village census:
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. Index to the 1911 Doukhobor Village Census. This online index provides the Department of the Interior file number for each Doukhobor village enumerated in the 1911 census. It also shows the National Archives of Canada and British Columbia Archives microfilm number of each village. Researchers can use this index to locate Doukhobor villages in the microfilm copy of the census.
1918
Description
Doukhobor population of 1,447. Census conducted June 1918. Census conducted by John Bowes (Inspector of Doukhobor Reserves, Department of the Interior). Census organized by Doukhobor reserve and within reserves by village. Census lists the name, age and denomination (Community or Independent) of each person. Census schedules are typewritten. Remarks: This census does not include Doukhobors located away from villages (on homesteads, in towns, etc.) in Saskatchewan nor those residing outside Saskatchewan. The 1918 Doukhobor village census should not be confused with the 1918 Independent Doukhobor census, which is a separate and distinct census record.
Originals
Library and Archives Canada holds microfilm copies of the original 1918 Doukhobor village census. These microfilms may be obtained directly or through interlibrary loan. [Microfilm Reel Nos. T-15532 to T-15535]. The British Columbia Archives also holds microfilm copies of the census, however, these are not available through interlibrary loan. [Microfilm Reel Nos. B-14197 to B-14200].
Indexes
The following index has been prepared for the 1918 Doukhobor village census:
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. Index to the 1918 Doukhobor Village Census. This online index provides the Department of the Interior file number for each Doukhobor village enumerated in the 1918 census. It also shows the National Archives of Canada and British Columbia Archives microfilm number of each village. Researchers can use this index to locate Doukhobor villages in the microfilm copy of the census.
Independent Doukhobor Census
In 1916, the Society of Independent Doukhobors was formed for the purpose of preserving the military service exemption of its members during the First World War. In 1918, the Society sent a delegation to Ottawa where the Government of Canada assured them that the original exemption granted by Order-in-Council P.C. 2747 on December 6, 1898 was still valid and that Independent Doukhobors would be treated in the same manner as Community Doukhobors. In order to determine the number of Independent Doukhobors who qualified for military service exemption, the Government of Canada ordered the Society to conduct a census of its members pursuant to The Military Service Act in 1918. A census revision was conducted in 1924.
1918
Description
Doukhobor population of 5,794. Census conducted 15 September 1918 to 15 December 1918. Census conducted by Peter E. Verabioff and Alex E. Reilkoff (Executive, Society of Independent Doukhobors). Census organized by province and within provinces by postal district. Census lists the name, middle initial, sex, age at registration, date of birth, marital status and number of living children of each person. Census schedules are handwritten in Russian and typewritten in English. Remarks: This census does not include Doukhobors belonging to the Christian Community of Universal Brotherhood nor the Sons of Freedom. It contains some duplicate entries. The 1918 Independent Doukhobor census should not be confused with the 1918 Doukhobor village census, which is a separate and distinct census record.
Originals
The Saskatchewan Archives Board, Regina Branch holds microfilm copies of the 1918 Independent Doukhobor census. [Microfilm Reel No. R-2.46]. This microfilm may be obtained directly or through interlibrary loan.
Indexes
The following index has been prepared for the 1918 census of Independent Doukhobors:
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. 1918 Census of Independent Doukhobors (Regina: self-published, 2002). ISBN 0-9730338-0-0 This 187-page book contains the name, age, date of birth, marital status and number of children of 5,794 Independent Doukhobors living in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia in 1918. Full bibliographic references and index.
1918 Independent Doukhobor census – sample entry.
1924
Description
Doukhobor population of approximately 5,100. Census day of 19 August 1924. Census conducted by Peter E. Verabioff (President, Society of Independent Doukhobors). Census organized by province and within provinces by postal district. Census lists the name, age and relationship to head of household of each person. Census schedules are handwritten in Russian and typewritten in English. Remarks: This census is lost and incomplete; only the census entries for Pelly district, Saskatchewan (Doukhobor population: 861) remain extant. This census does not include Doukhobors belonging to the Christian Community of Universal Brotherhood nor the Sons of Freedom.
Originals
The Saskatchewan Archives Board, Regina Branch holds microfilm copies of the 1924 Independent Doukhobor census for Pelly district, Saskatchewan. [Microfilm Reel No. R-2.46]. This microfilm may be obtained directly or through interlibrary loan.
Indexes
The following index has been prepared for the 1924 census of Independent Doukhobors:
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. 1918 Census of Independent Doukhobors (Regina: self-published, 2002). ISBN 0-9730338-0-0. In addition to the 1918 census entries, this 187-page book contains the name, age, date of birth, marital status and number of children of 861 Independent Doukhobors living in Pelly district, Saskatchewan in 1924. Full bibliographic references and index.
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. Index of Independent Doukhobor Society Members in Pelly, SK, 1924. This online index provides a listing of 861 members of the Independent Doukhobor Society living in Pelly, Saskatchewan and includes the name, age and relationship of each household member.
1924 Independent Doukhobor census – sample entry.
U.S. Federal Census
The U.S. Government has taken a nationwide census of the American population every ten years since 1790. The purpose of the U.S. federal census is to determine population size and distribution, taxation, electoral representation, planning and resources. The first U.S. federal census to include Doukhobors is 1900. The most recent U.S. federal census to be released to the public is 1930.
1900
Description
Twelfth decennial census. Doukhobor population of 19. Census day of 01 June 1900. Enumeration was to be completed within two weeks in urban areas and thirty days in rural areas. Census conducted by enumerators of the Census Bureau. Census organized by state and within states by county and enumeration district. Census lists the address, name, relationship to head of family, sex, race, age, marital status, number of children, place of birth, year of immigration and/or naturalization, occupation, months not employed, school, ability to speak English, whether on a farm, home owned or rented of each person. Census schedules are handwritten. Remarks: Doukhobor entries are found in the state of California.
Originals
The National Archives and Records Administration holds microfilm copies of the original 1900 U.S. federal census. These microfilms may be obtained directly or through interlibrary loan. Many libraries, archives, genealogical societies and LDS Family History Centers in the U.S. also hold microfilm copies. For an online 1900 U.S. Federal Census Microfilm Catalogue, visit the National Archives and Records Administration website. Online digitized copies of the original 1900 U.S. federal census are not available on the National Archives and Records Administration website.
Indexes
The following indexes are relevant and useful for Doukhobors enumerated in the 1900 U.S. federal census:
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. Index of Doukhobors in the 1900 U.S. Federal Census. This online index provides a comprehensive listing of all 19 Doukhobors enumerated in the 1900 U.S. federal census with some personal data transcribed (name, relationship, date of birth, age, year of immigration, occupation, state, county and enumeration district.
Ancestry.com – 1900 U.S. Federal Census Index & Images. This is an online index to every name enumerated in the 1900 U.S. federal census with some personal data transcribed (name, home, place and date of birth, race, relationship, state, county, enumeration district) and links to Ancestry.com online digitized copies of the original census pages. Note: paid subscription required.
1900 U.S. federal census – sample entry.
1910
Description
Thirteenth decennial census. Doukhobor population of 34. Census day of 15 April 1910. Enumeration was to be completed within two weeks in urban areas and thirty days in rural areas. Census conducted by enumerators of the Census Bureau. Census organized by state and within states by county and enumeration district. Census lists the name and relationship to the head of household; sex; color or race; age at last birthday; marital status; length of present marriage; if a mother, number of children and number of living children; birthplace and parents’ birthplaces; if foreign born, year of immigration and citizenship status; language spoken; occupation; type of industry employed in; whether employer, employee, or self-employed; number of weeks unemployed; ability to read and write; schooling; if home was rented or owned; if owned, whether free or mortgaged; if home was a house or a farm; if blind in both eyes, and if deaf and dumb of each person. Census schedules are handwritten. Remarks: Doukhobor entries are found in the state of California.
Originals
The National Archives and Records Administration holds microfilm copies of the original 1910 U.S. federal census. These microfilms may be obtained directly or through interlibrary loan. Many libraries, archives, genealogical societies and LDS Family History Centers in the U.S. also hold microfilm copies. For an online 1910 U.S. Federal Census Microfilm Catalogue, visit the National Archives and Records Administration website. Online digitized copies of the original 1910 U.S. federal census are not available on the National Archives and Records Administration website.
Indexes
The following indexes are relevant and useful for Doukhobors enumerated in the 1910 U.S. federal census:
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. Index of Doukhobors in the 1910 U.S. Federal Census. This online index provides a comprehensive listing of all 34 Doukhobors enumerated in the 1910 U.S. federal census with some personal data transcribed (name, relationship, age, year of immigration, occupation, state, county and enumeration district.
Ancestry.com – 1910 U.S. Federal Census Index & Images. This is an online index to every name enumerated in the 1910 U.S. federal census with some personal data transcribed (name, home, place and date of birth, race, relationship, state, county, enumeration district) and links to Ancestry.com online digitized copies of the original census pages. Note: paid subscription required.
1910 U.S. federal census – sample entry.
1920
Description
Fourteenth decennial census. Doukhobor population of 69. Census day of 01 January 1920. Enumeration was to be completed within two weeks in urban areas and thirty days in rural areas. Census conducted by enumerators of the Census Bureau. Census organized by state and within states by county and enumeration district. Census lists the name of street, avenue road, etc.; house number or farm; number of dwelling in order of visitation; number of family in order of visitation; name of each person whose place of abode was with the family; relationship of person enumerated to the head of the family; whether home owned or rented; if owned, whether free or mortgaged; sex; color or race; age at last birthday; whether single, married, widowed, or divorced; year of immigration; whether naturalized or alien; school attendance; whether able to read; whether able to write; person’s place of birth; mother tongue; father’s place of birth; father’s mother tongue; mother’s place of birth; mother’s mother tongue; whether able to speak English; trade, profession, or particular kind of work done; industry, business, or establishment in which at work; whether employer, salary or wage worker, or working on own account; number of farm schedule of each person. Census schedules are handwritten. Remarks: Doukhobor entries are found in three states: Montana, Oregon and California.
Originals
The National Archives and Records Administration holds microfilm copies of the original 1920 U.S. federal census. These microfilms may be obtained directly or through interlibrary loan. Many libraries, archives, genealogical societies and LDS Family History Centers in the U.S. also hold microfilm copies. For an online 1920 U.S. Federal Census Microfilm Catalogue, visit the National Archives and Records Administration website. Online digitized copies of the original 1920 U.S. federal census are not available on the National Archives and Records Administration website.
Indexes
The following indexes are relevant and useful for Doukhobors enumerated in the 1920 U.S. federal census:
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. Index of Doukhobors in the 1920 U.S. Federal Census. This online index provides a comprehensive listing of all 69 Doukhobors enumerated in the 1920 U.S. federal census with some personal data transcribed (name, relationship, age, year of immigration, occupation, state, county and enumeration district.
Ancestry.com – 1920 U.S. Federal Census Index & Images. This is an online index to every name enumerated in the 1920 U.S. federal census with some personal data transcribed (name, home, place and date of birth, race, relationship, state, county, enumeration district) and links to Ancestry.com online digitized copies of the original census pages. Note: paid subscription required.
1920 U.S. federal census – sample entry.
1930
Description
Fifteenth decennial census. Doukhobor population of 451. Census day of 01 April 1930. Enumeration was to be completed within two weeks in urban areas and thirty days in rural areas. Census conducted by enumerators of the Census Bureau. Census organized by state and within states by county and enumeration district. Census lists the name of street, avenue road, etc.; house number; number of dwelling in order of visitation; number of family in order of visitation; name of each person whose place of abode was with the family; relationship of person enumerated to the head of the family; whether home owned or rented; value of home if owned; if rented, monthly rental; whether family owned a radio set; whether family owned a farm; sex; color or race; age at last birthday; whether single, married, widowed, or divorced; age at first marriage; school attendance; whether able to read or write; person’s place of birth; father’s place of birth; mother’s place of birth; language spoken in home before immigration; year of immigration; whether naturalized or alien; whether able to speak English; trade, profession, or particular kind of work done; industry, business, or establishment in which at work; whether employer, salary or wage worker, or working on own account; number on farm schedule of each person. Census schedules are handwritten. Remarks: Doukhobor entries are found in four states: Michigan, Illinois, Oregon and California.
Originals
The National Archives and Records Administration holds microfilm copies of the original 1930 U.S. federal census. These microfilms may be obtained directly or through interlibrary loan. Many libraries, archives, genealogical societies and LDS Family History Centers in the U.S. also hold microfilm copies. For an online 1930 U.S. Federal Census Microfilm Catalogue, visit the National Archives and Records Administration website. Online digitized copies of the original 1930 U.S. federal census are not available on the National Archives and Records Administration website.
Indexes
The following indexes are relevant and useful for Doukhobors enumerated in the 1930 U.S. federal census:
Kalmakoff, Jonathan. Index of Doukhobors in the 1930 U.S. Federal Census. This online index provides a comprehensive listing of all 451 Doukhobors enumerated in the 1930 U.S. federal census with some personal data transcribed (name, relationship, age, year of immigration, occupation, state, county and enumeration district.
Ancestry.com – 1930 U.S. Federal Census Index & Images. This is an online index to every name enumerated in the 1930 U.S. federal census with some personal data transcribed (name, home, place and date of birth, race, relationship, state, county, enumeration district) and links to Ancestry.com online digitized copies of the original census pages. Note: paid subscription required.
1930 U.S. federal census – sample entry.
Notes
Completeness
Sometimes census enumerators failed to complete the entire census form for each household. For example, some 1901 Canada census entries list the head of household only; others list persons by initials; still others omit dates of birth. As well, Doukhobors sometimes refused to be enumerated by census takers. For example, over 1,000 Doukhobors in British Columbia refused to be enumerated in the 1911 Canada census. Occasionally census records contain duplicate entries. For example, the 1916 Census of Northwest Provinces contains a number of duplicate entries where census enumerators from adjoining sub-districts enumerated the same population twice. The purpose of a census can also limit its completeness; this is especially true where the focus of the census is a specific group or interest. For example, the 1918 Independent Doukhobor census was never intended to be an enumeration of all Doukhobors in Canada – only Independent Doukhobors.
Accuracy
While census records contain some of the most valuable information available, they may also contain false and misleading data. Mistakes were sometimes made by census enumerators while entering information. Census enumerators were not required to consult original records, nor even ask members of the household themselves to secure their data. They could and did question neighbors, small children and visiting relatives. Family members may also have provided incorrect information to census enumerators, inadvertently or deliberately. Often Doukhobors did not know or remember and could only guess their age. Occasionally, Doukhobor parents gave false ages for their sons so that they would be eligible for homestead entry or else ineligible for military service. Sometimes even if the data was correctly entered, the format may be misleading. For example, children listed as sons and daughters of the head may be step-children or adopted. Researchers must critically evaluate and corroborate such data with other material to ensure accuracy.
Spelling
Many challenges arise with the spelling and form of names in census records. Most Doukhobor immigrants were illiterate and did not know how to spell their own names. Those who were literate in Russian were not necessarily literate in English. Census enumerators who did not understand the Russian (or broken English) spoken by Doukhobor immigrants often recorded the names phonetically the way they sounded. As a result, many alternate spellings were recorded for the same name. For example, the surname Fofanov appears in the 1901 Canada census as Fofanoff, Fonfonoff, Fofonfo, Fofon, Fonfon, Fachwano, Fecheno, Hohanoff, Hochwano, Hochwanow, Hogheno and Whochwanow. Researchers must be able to recognize alternate spellings for the surnames they are looking for. Note also that the form of name used by Doukhobors may vary from one census to the next. For example, a Doukhobor might be listed by their proper Russian name (i.e. Vasily), a diminutive Russian name (i.e. Vasya) or an adopted English name (i.e. William or Bill).
Legibility
Worn and torn pages, faded or smudged ink, poor handwriting, and improper focus or exposure for microfilming all affect the legibility of census records, making them difficult to decipher. For example, the handwritten entries in the 1901 Canada census are often illegible. Sometimes pages may be microfilmed out of order or missing altogether. For example, one page was missed during the microfilming of the 1905 Doukhobor village census by the British Columbia Archives.
Census Indexes
An index is a typed copy of information extracted from an original census record which is published online or offline. Indexes can be excellent finding aids for genealogical research, allowing the researcher to pinpoint specific data and significantly reduce research time. However, indexes vary significantly in the quantity of information they contain. Some contain a list of names with or without other details, while others are full transcriptions of the original records. Similarly, indexes vary substantially in the quality of information they contain. Some have serious errors and omissions (especially regarding spelling), while others are very good indeed, having been checked and double checked. Accordingly, indexes should be used with caution. Whenever you trace an ancestor in a census index, you should also always look at, and if possible, obtain a copy of the original census record.
Scope of Census Records
Taken together, there is a broad scope of census records containing information about Doukhobors for the first two-plus decades of their life in Canada and the United States. These records are summarized below for quick reference.
Year
Census
General Description
1900
U.S. Federal Census
Doukhobors living in US only
1901
Canada Census
Doukhobors living in Canada; incomplete
1905
Doukhobor Village Census
Doukhobors living in SK villages only
1906
Census of Northwest Provinces
Doukhobors living in MB & SK
1910
U.S. Federal Census
Doukhobors living in US only
1911
Canada Census
Doukhobors living in Canada; incomplete
1911
Doukhobor Village Census
Doukhobors living in SK villages only
1916
Census of Northwest Provinces
Doukhobors living in MB, SK, AB – not BC
1918
Independent Doukhobor Census
Independent Doukhobors living in Canada only
1918
Doukhobor Village Census
Doukhobors living in SK villages only
1920
U.S. Federal Census
Doukhobors living in US only
1924
Independent Doukhobor Census
Independent Doukhobors living in Pelly, SK only
1930
U.S. Federal Census
Doukhobors living in US only
An earlier version of this article was reproduced by permission in the Bulletin Vol 33 No 3 (Regina: Saskatchewan Genealogical Society, Sept. 2002).
Passports and visas are among the often overlooked documents that we may have about our Doukhobor ancestors. An official document issued by a country to one of its citizens, the passport allows an individual to leave and return to his or her country of citizenship and facilitates travel from one country to another. A visa, by contrast, is an endorsement by the country to be visited permitting entry into that country. The following guide describes Russian and Canadian passport and visa records used historically by Doukhobors – their background, content, usefulness and availability.
Passports in Russia
In Russia, the passport system was introduced in 1719 during the reign of Peter the Great. Whereas in most European countries, the main task of the passport system was to ensure peace and order, in Russia the passport also served as a means to regulate tax payments, military service and other obligations to the state. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, both internal passports and foreign passports were issued to Russian citizens.
Internal Passports
Internal passports were issued to Russian citizens who traveled within the Empire outside of their registered place of residence. These passports were granted for a limited period (depending on social class) and then had to be renewed. Note that on occasion, for one reason or another, such passports would be denied to Doukhobor applicants. Citizens were required to present their internal passports on demand to Tsarist officials. Those found away from their registered place of residence without passports were subject to fines or imprisonment. Restrictions on passports were eventually lifted in 1903 and the internal passport system was abandoned altogether after the Revolution.
Issued by district police officers, the internal passport included the following data: the name, patronymic and surname, occupation, age, faith, place of residence, social class and facial features of the citizen, as well as date of issue, destination, duration and purpose of travel. Accompanying family members were listed in the same passport. It was printed in Russian.
There is no centralized repository of internal passports in Russia. Many of these records were lost and destroyed by war and revolution. Those that have survived are housed in various regional and state archives. Individual copies of internal passports issued to Doukhobors may have also survived among family papers and memorabilia in Canada. Researchers who come across these rare records should take steps to ensure their preservation.
Foreign Passports
Foreign passports were required by citizens of Imperial Russia in order to travel abroad. These passports were granted for a limited period of five years. Arriving at the Russian border station or port of departure, the traveller had to present his or her passport to border officers for inspection. If approved, the passport was stamped and returned to the traveller. However, if the passport was not in order, it was not stamped and the traveller had no chance to pass across the frontier.
Note that the 7,500 Doukhobors who emigrated from Russia in 1899 were issued foreign passports but not permitted to keep them. They were confiscated prior to their departure. This was because the Doukhobors were permitted to leave Russia only on the condition that they never return. However, the 1,160 Doukhobors who emigrated from Russia after 1899 were issued foreign passports and permitted to retain them like other Russian citizens.
Russian foreign passport No. 5026 issued to Ivan Evseyevich Konkin & family on July 24, 1904.
National Archives of Canada, M-7670.
Issued by local governors, the foreign passport included the following data: the name, patronymic and surname, occupation, age, faith, place of residence, information about the family, facial features and photo (sometimes) of the citizen, as well as date of issue, destination and purpose of travel. The passport stamp also indicated the date of inspection as well as the border station or port of departure. Accompanying family members were listed in the same passport. It was printed in Russian.
There is no centralized repository of foreign passports in Russia. As with internal passports, many foreign passports were lost and destroyed by wars and revolution. Those that have survived are housed in various regional and state archives.
Some foreign passports were collected by Russian consuls in Canada. The Likacheff-Ragosine-Mathers (LI-RA-MA) Collection at the National Archives of Canada consists of documents created by the Imperial Russian Consular offices in Canada during the period from 1898 to 1922. The Passport/Identity Papers series consists of 11,400 files on immigrants from the Russian Empire who settled in Canada. The files include documents such as passport applications and background questionnaires. However, only ten of these files relate to Doukhobor immigrants. See the Index of Doukhobors in the LI-RA-MA Collection for a listing of individual files.
Prior to 1923, it was unnecessary for immigrants to possess a valid passport in order to gain entry into Canada. Regardless, those immigrants who had passports issued in their homelands kept them; they were not required to surrender them to the Government of Canada. Consequently, copies of Russian foreign passports issued to Doukhobors (who emigrated after 1899) may have survived among family papers and memorabilia in Canada. Researchers who come across these rare records should take steps to ensure their preservation.
Passports in Canada
Since 1862, the Government of Canada has issued passports to Canadian citizens for travel to a foreign country. Early passports were issued as single-sheet certificates with the official seal. In 1915, Canada switched to the British form of passport, a ten-section single sheet folder printed in English only. Then, in 1920, Canada adopted a booklet-type passport. Since 1926, Canadian passports have been printed bilingual. Until 1947, two kinds of passports were issued in Canada, one for British-born citizens and one for naturalized citizens. That same year, the Canadian Citizenship Act, which stipulates that only Canadian citizens are eligible for a Canadian passport, came into effect. Canadian passports are valid for five years.
Canadian passport No. 17928 issued to Koozma & Polly Tarasoff on November 13, 1931. Photo courtesy Koozma J. Tarasoff.
Issued from 1862 to 1947 by the Governor General, and since 1947 by the Minister of External Affairs, the Canadian passport includes the following data: the name and surname, date of birth, place of birth, place of residence, physical description, photo, occupation (sometimes), nationality, date of naturalization and photo of the citizen, as well as date of issue and expiry.
There is no centralized repository of Canadian passports. The Government of Canada did not keep copies of passport applications nor passports issued to its citizens. Individual copies may be found among family papers and memorabilia.
Note: a special collection of passports for Doukhobor leader Peter “Chistiakov” Verigin from 1934 to 1936 and a delegation of Doukhobors to Russia in 1931 is housed at the National Archives of Canada (RG25, External Affairs, Volume 1580, File 1931-1935).
Visas
Many countries require possession of a valid visa as a condition of entry for foreigners. A visa is a formal endorsement by the government of a country giving a certain individual permission to enter the country for a given period of time and for certain purposes. Visas are typically stamped or attached into the recipient’s passport.
Since 1923, immigrants have had to secure a Canadian visa in order to gain entry into Canada. Prior to that time, a visa was unnecessary. It follows that most Doukhobors did not require a visa when they immigrated to Canada, having done so prior to 1923. However, they may have required a foreign visa if they subsequently travelled abroad from Canada.
The need or absence of need of a visa generally depends on the citizenship of the applicant, the intended duration of the stay, and the activities that the applicant may wish to undertake in the country he or she visits; these may delineate different formal categories of visas, with different issuance conditions. Examples of different visas include: transit visas, tourist visas, business visas, student visas, research visas, diplomatic visas, journalist visas and work visas.
U.S. visa issued to John Nichvolodoff and family on April 4, 1923. Click photos to view larger images.
Photo courtesy John Nechvolodoff.
Depending on the issuing country, a visa typically includes the following data: the name and surname, date of birth, place of birth, place of residence, occupation, nationality, photo and personal references of the traveller, as well as the date of issue, destination, length and purpose of travel. Accompanying family members are often listed. It is printed in the official language of the issuing country.
Notes
Passports and visas are, of course, sources of limited value. They are of use only if your Doukhobor ancestor travelled abroad and was required to secure them. Those that still exist may be difficult to locate. Nevertheless, where they are found among personal records, they can be an excellent source of information for genealogists. The researcher should never assume that a Doukhobor ancestor did not require these documents.
As a source for anything other than the traveling done on that passport or visa, passports and visas are generally considered a secondary source rather than a primary source of genealogical information. Nevertheless, this does not negate the information one might find in these documents. The information contained in these documents should be cross-referenced with other sources to ensure their accuracy.
Bibliography
Canadian Genealogy Centre, “Passports”. Retrieved Apr. 09, 2005, from www.genealogy.gc.ca.
Citizenship and Immigration Canada, “Forging Our Legacy: Canadian Citizenship and Immigration, 1900-1977”. Retrieved Apr. 09, 2005, from http://www.cic.gc.ca.html.
Government of Canada, Canadian passport No. 17928 issued November 13, 1931.
Greenwood, Val D., “The Researcher’s Guide to American Genealogy”, 3rd Ed., (Baltimore: The Genealogical Publishing Co., 2000).
Imperial Russia, Foreign Passport No. 5026 issued July 24, 1904.
Imperial Russia, Internal Passport No. 1305 issued August 21, 1917.
McLure, Rhonda R. (2000). “Passports – Primary or Secondary Material?” Retrieved Apr. 09, 2005, from Overhead in GenForum Web site: http://www.genealogy.com.html.
National Archives of Canada, LI-RA-MA Collection, Passport/Identity Series, Microfilm Nos. H1971-H1975.
Passport Canada, “History of Passports”. Retrieved Apr. 09, 2005, from http://www.ppt.gc.ca.asp.
United States of America, Declarations of Aliens About to Depart For the United States, dated April 4, 1923.
US National Archives and Records Administration, “Passport Applications”. Retrieved Apr. 09,2005, from http://www.archives.gov.html
This article was reproduced by permission in the Bulletin Vol. 36 No. 2 (Regina: Saskatchewan Genealogical Society, June 2005).
