Not everyone reads handwritten documents easily. How do you proceed when you need to submit a deed, will, or other long handwritten document with your lineage society application?
Short answer: ask the society! Most societies have preferences as to next steps.
Typically, they request one of three things:
- Submit a clear image of the document.
- Submit a clear image of the document and underline in red (with pencil, pen or computer underlining, depending on society) any information relevant to documenting the line.
- Submit a clear image of the document; underline in red (with pencil, pen or computer underlining, depending on society) any information relevant to documenting the line; and transcribe (or retype) the document in a text file.
If you’ve never transcribed a document before, look for resources on transcription for genealogy to help get you started, such as this Legacy Webinar (behind a paywall) or this ThoughtCo. article.
Questions or need help with transcription? Contact us.