The Indian Census Rolls were compiled by the Bureau of Indian Affairs between 1885 and 1940. They were microfilmed by the National Archives and are available at regional branches as microfilm publication M595, in 692 rolls, are also available at many state and local history and genealogy centers and online via Ancestry and Fold3 (subscription databases).
Information gathered varies by year and jurisdiction, but usually includes English and/or Indian name, tribal roll number, age or date of birth, sex, and relationship to head of household. Beginning in 1930, the censuses also show degree of Indian blood, marital status, place of residence, and other information.
For a history and detailed description of this resource, see BIA Indian Census Rolls: A Guide to the Records of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, 1885–1940 on the About.com Genealogy Web site.
