Faded ink, unfamiliar letter forms, and centuries-old writing styles can make historical documents seem impossible to read. This in-depth course teaches you to decipher old handwritten records, moving from the basics of early American handwriting systems to the specific challenges of wills, deeds, court records, and probate files.
Through ten focused modules, you’ll:
- Develop practical techniques for reading various American handwriting styles and scripts
- Learn specific strategies for reading different document types, from court records to personal letters
- Practice with real historical documents through hands-on exercises
- Master the skills to independently transcribe and extract vital family information
This illustrated, exercise-rich course adapts to your experience level, whether you’re just beginning to work with handwritten documents or looking to tackle more challenging scripts. Through systematic practice with American handwriting systems spanning three centries, each module develops your ability to accurately read and interpret a wide range of historical records.
Carla S. Cegielski is a freelance genealogical researcher and writer living in Ohio. After retiring from teaching at a local business college, Cegielski began lecturing on various genealogical topics. She is a frequent speaker at genealogical societies, libraries, and conferences. Carla writes the Tech Tips column in the quarterly NGS Magazine.
Access your course anytime, anywhere using a computer or tablet with an internet connection. All course content—including lessons, examples, exercises, and quizzes—is cloud-based, requiring no software downloads or installations.
The course runs on Canvas, which requires an up-to-date web browser. Check your browser compatibility at https://guides.instructure.com/m/67952/l/720329-which-browsers-does-canvas-support.
Your registration provides a personal, nonexclusive, nontransferable license to access the course materials for your individual educational use only. All coursework must be completed independently.
The Continuing Genealogical Studies series offers flexible, self-paced online courses designed to fit your schedule. Whether you’re balancing work, volunteer commitments, or personal obligations, you can complete the coursework when it’s most convenient for you. You control your learning journey and set the pace that works best for your needs.
Your course access begins on the date of enrollment and continues for six months. Need more time? Paid extension options are available by contacting the NGS Course Administrator.
You’ll receive an automatic email with course details confirming your registration. Within three business days, the NGS Course Administrator will send your login credentials for the Canvas online learning platform.
All purchases of courses are final. No refunds or credits are available.
