Austria Beginners Corner Resources

One does not need to speak fluent German in order to experience success in German research, though it does require an investment of time to gain an understanding of the German genealogical process, history, geography, language, vocabulary, handwriting, etc. Below are listed some resources that will assist you as you begin this exciting journey.

Language and Archaic Terms&lt;br&gt;You will need a good modern German dictionary and at least one dictionary containing the archaic terms.&amp;nbsp;&lt;br&gt;

A German Genealogical wordlist is available at FamilySearch Wiki.&amp;nbsp; Also available are word lists for Latin, French, Danish, Dutch and Polish – languages that often appear in German records.

OnlineLatin Dictionary and Grammar Aid is available through the Notre Dame University Library

Online Latin Word List published as a reference to medieval studies.

The German-English Genealogical Dictionary by Ernst Thode (Baltimore, Maryland; Genealogical Publishing Co., Inc. c 1992.), is a wonderful hands on archaic dictionary and is available to purchase through many different outlets online.

Handwriting

Once you have determined the place of origin and have found searchable records, you will need to familiarize yourself with the various types of German script. In addition to the resources already listed, additional help is available at:

BYU German Script Tutorials

Minert, Roger. Deciphering Handwriting in German Documents, analyzing German, Latin, and French in Vital Records Written in Germany; Woodscross, U.S.A., GRT Publications, c 2001. FHL Intl Ref Area 417.7 M662d

Wikipedia Fraktur Script

Suetterlin Script

Research Coursesat FamilySearch. Free online research classes including German, French, Polish, Dutch, Scandinavian and Russian Handwriting Courses.

FamilySearch Wiki- search by keywords German Script for various training articles.