The older the documents we locate, the more challenging they can be to read and decipher. While this can be frustrating to most researchers, it also can be downright off-putting. Your research will undoubtedly uncover some of these documents at some point, and some understanding of paleography is required. Even old American census records, church records, and deeds can be difficult to read. Visit the Genlinks site for some examples of the factors that can contribute to this challenge.

What is paleography? Paleography, according to the Merriam-Webster Online dictionary, is the study of ancient writings and inscriptions. If you are studying old English documents, you will encounter not only the Old English script but, going further back in time, ecclesiastical records written in Latin. German genealogical researchers must learn to read and interpret Fraktur in addition to learning the current and old German language. Similar examples of old writing styles and language usage will be challenging in many older records in many geographical locations.

Don't give up on your attempts to decipher these older documents! In "Along Those Lines . . ." this week, I want to share a variety of resources with you that can help you learn and understand the older writing styles, characters, and languages.

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