Library and Archives Canada has partnered with Ancestry and FamilySearch to create a comprehensive digital index of the 1931 Canadian Census using advanced handwriting recognition (HTR) technology and artificial intelligence. This system processes approximately 230,000 digitized census images containing roughly 10 million names, automatically transcribing handwritten entries into searchable digital records.
This project makes historical census information more accessible to members of the public for genealogical research and historical studies. The AI system recognizes handwritten text from the original census documents and converts it into readable, indexed data. Because this project involves personal information from historical census records, Library and Archives Canada has implemented safeguards to protect privacy while making this important historical resource publicly available.
The system is currently in production and available for public use. Users should be aware that the transcription is performed through automated AI technology developed by Ancestry, which means there may be occasional errors in the conversion of handwritten text. Library and Archives Canada works with its partners to continuously improve accuracy and ensure the historical record is preserved effectively.
