New NYC source online and free

This may be of interest to the many who had ancestors/relatives in New York City around 1890 when some called the city the 33rd county of Ireland. The 1890 US census was destroyed but NYC (then only Manhattan and part of the Bronx) had done its own census, taken by the police force. The images have finally come online—free. But first you have to search your person's name in the index on Family Search, also free tho you must register. The names index is under New York State—then New York City—then 1890 Police Census. Look for the book number. That's what you will need.

With the book number, click on this link to NYC digital records New York City Police Department category Then search for the relevant book. It's a bit laborious but worth it if you find that pot of genealogical gold, as I did. The announcement comes courtesy of the New York Genealogical and Biographical Society. Their free online newsletter often has helpful updates.