Using spatial network analysis to explore migration of extended families in historical research

Author

Rock Miller, CUNY Hunter CollegeFollow

Date of Award

Fall 1-3-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Geography

First Advisor

Dr. Ines Miyares

Second Advisor

Dr Sean Ahearn

Academic Program Adviser

Sean Ahearn

Abstract

This project proposes a geoinformatics approach for understanding the migration of extended families in historical contexts. It uses full-count longitudinal census data (developed by the Minnesota Population Center) and graph methods to define multi-generational extended family relationships and to model the locational structures of these families as a spatial network. Graph algorithms and mapping methods are used to interrogate these structures as reflections of the patterns of family outmigration and extension over time. The study is based on a set of extended families resident in a 15-county study area in the Bluegrass region of Kentucky in 1870, and their evolution through the Reconstruction and post-Reconstruction period from 1870 through 1910. It concludes with inferences and observations suggesting lines of local and regional historical inquiry.

Recommended Citation

Miller, Rock, "Using spatial network analysis to explore migration of extended families in historical research" (2025). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/hc_sas_etds/1262