Idea File: Include an Old Will

I recently obtained a copy of an 1850 will, and just about tore my hair out trying to decipher the handwriting.  I looked around the Web and found some sites that helped, but what helped even more was calling a member of the San Diego Genealogical Society who is experienced at reading old documents.

Phyllis walked me through the will and I got better and better at deciphering the handwriting as we went along.  Maybe all it takes is more practice. Since then, I’ve tackled more documents, with greater success.

Here’s what’s worked for me: I’m used to working at a very quick pace—however discovered that in reading these documents I need to just slow down.  Allowing myself more time to “translate” and not get frustrated because I’m not doing it fast enough has made a huge difference.

I also use a magnifying glass to avoid eye strain.  And finally, I’ve taken the advice of another genealogy friend and started putting together an alphabet chart to help me to compare letters.

July 15, 2008 | Filed Under Idea File 

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