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Finding John Smith: Using Extra Information for Historical Record Linkage

Author

Listed:
  • Ran Abramitzky
  • Leah Platt Boustan
  • Harriet M. Brookes Gray
  • Katherine Eriksson
  • Santiago Pérez
  • Hannah M. Postel
  • Myera Rashid
  • Noah Simon

Abstract

We introduce a new rule-based linking method for historical Census records. We augment earlier algorithms based on name, age and place of birth (Abramitzky, Boustan, Eriksson, 2012, or “basic ABE”), with five matching characteristics – middle initial, county of residence, and spouse and parents’ names. Relative to basic ABE, ABE-Extra Information (“ABE-EI”) greatly increases match rates, improves accuracy and is similarly representative of the population on most attributes, with geographic mobility being one important exception. Relative to machine learning algorithms, ABE-EI has somewhat lower match rates, improved representativeness, and offers full replicability. We also create the first ABE-based links for women.

Suggested Citation

  • Ran Abramitzky & Leah Platt Boustan & Harriet M. Brookes Gray & Katherine Eriksson & Santiago Pérez & Hannah M. Postel & Myera Rashid & Noah Simon, 2025. "Finding John Smith: Using Extra Information for Historical Record Linkage," NBER Working Papers 33999, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:33999
    Note: AG CH DAE ED EH LS PE
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • N31 - Economic History - - Labor and Consumers, Demography, Education, Health, Welfare, Income, Wealth, Religion, and Philanthropy - - - U.S.; Canada: Pre-1913
    • N32 - Economic History - - Labor and Consumers, Demography, Education, Health, Welfare, Income, Wealth, Religion, and Philanthropy - - - U.S.; Canada: 1913-

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