Cyrillic for Genealogists

Key points and insights

In this engaging Webinar Short, Jen Shaffer—known as the Formidable Genealogist—demystifies the often intimidating Cyrillic script for genealogical research. With a practical and empowering approach, she equips researchers to navigate historical records written in Cyrillic, commonly encountered in regions once influenced by the Russian Empire and Soviet Union. Shaffer emphasizes that fluency in Russian isn’t necessary; instead, the right mindset and strategic tools can open new doors to family history discoveries.

Key Takeaways from the Webinar Short:

• Know Where to Look and Why It Matters: Records in Cyrillic aren’t limited to Russia—they appear across Eastern Europe and Central Asia, including countries like Ukraine, Poland, the Baltics, and former Soviet Republics. Understanding the historical context of your ancestor’s location, including shifting borders and administrative languages, is critical to locating and interpreting these records.
• Leverage Practical Tools and Guides: Shaffer showcases a rich array of resources—such as the FamilySearch Wiki, genealogical word lists, and step-by-step reading aids for Polish civil registrations written in Russian. She highlights specific tools like script generators, transliteration websites, and visual guides that make deciphering handwritten Cyrillic documents more accessible, even for beginners.
• Use Technology Thoughtfully: From browser-based translations to Google Translate’s image tools and advanced AI like ChatGPT, Shaffer explores how technology can assist in transcribing and translating difficult texts. However, she cautions about relying too heavily on automation, pointing out that handwriting quirks and non-standard forms can confuse even the most advanced tools—making critical evaluation essential.

Take the Next Step in Your Research
To uncover hidden chapters in your family history, don’t miss the full Webinar Short. Shaffer’s actionable insights and hands-on demonstrations offer an encouraging roadmap for navigating Cyrillic records with confidence. Whether your ancestors hailed from Russia, Lithuania, or Kazakhstan, the skills shared here are an invaluable addition to your genealogical toolkit.

Explore the detailed syllabus included with the webinar for a curated list of reading aids, script tutorials, transliteration tools, and community groups. These supplemental resources will further enhance your ability to decode and understand Cyrillic documents, helping you unlock stories that have waited generations to be told.