German/English Translation Services
We can translate your old (or modern) German documents, be they printed or handwriten, for you. Our emphasis is on genealogical context, meaning that we translate with a focus on people, places, and events. The following are some samples that illustrate typical old German writing:
Your Detailed Genealogical Translation Report
Adherence to Genealogical Standards
We strive to adhere to all applicable genealogical standards and methodologies as outlined in the most recent edition of the Genealogical Proof Standard and Mastering Genealogical Proof.
- Clear distinctions between translated texts and translation comments.
- Evidence is extracted out and listed them separately.
- We translate objectively, and without bias.
- Any assumptions we make are clearly represented as such.
- We add notes and observations that may further highlight the subject matter for you.
- Inconsistencies in the translation are evaluated and discussed.
- Further background information on the document and the facts contained therein are included as available.
Complete and Thorough Documentation
Our goal is to be as detailed and clear as possible, so that you aren't left with interpreting possible meanings yourself. The final translation report will contain the following sections:
- Project Background and Client Information
- The Translation
- Original Document Images
- Document Transcription
- Translation Observations
- List of People
- List of Places
- Map of Places
- Copyright and Citing Information
We have some of the kindest clients!
I first turned to Mike when I realized my German word list wasn't going to provide enough detail to interpret my family's records. His translation was detailed, thorough and helpful in opening new doors. I've now worked with him several times and would be glad to do so again.
I'm so lucky to have found Mike Bronner of Genealabs! I've been working with my husband to put together his family tree. We've been lucky, in that his ancestors are in France where Civil Registration has been around for over 200 years. The problem is, his family is from Alsace & Lorraine so the records go from French to German to French and back again. We could read the French years, but were stuck with the German records.
That's where Mike comes in. I sent him a Death record that we needed translated (we were able to find the record by looking at names, but were stuck on all the extra information). Mike was able to read a poor digital copy (our fault!), partially hand written and partially printed. in the space of 1 week he received the document, reviewed it, asked questions, translated it and sent back a comprehensive report that had BOTH the full German text written and the English translation. His work is thorough, clear and professional ... and of course, prompt! His prices are also very fair! I absolutely recommend him to my fellow genealogist and no doubt will use him again. A great contact/asset to have in your resource file!
Mike is just awesome — he’s done two translations for me. The first was an article from a German-language, US-based newspaper for one of my clients. My client now shares that article with her many friends and family members. The second translation was a marriage record from Oberdiebach, Germany, dated 1617. The handwriting in this particular record was very difficult to decipher. And Mike translated it beautifully! He’s my go-to guy for German translations, and he should be yours!! P.S. He’s very easy to work with, and he’s affordable!!
A Little Ditty About Us
I (Mike Bronner) founded GeneaLabs with my wife, Myelene, in early 2014 to combine my passions for Genealogy and Web Development.
Born and raised in a bi-lingual house-hold (speaking English at home, and German in school and with relatives) I grew up fluent in both languages. I graduated with Abitur in Germany, then moved to the United States to go to College and University. I have, of course, maintained my German language skills and speak, read, and write at a native level.
Since my early teen years I have been interested in Genealogy and Calligraphy. The intersection of which suits the translation of old German documents with a focus on genealogical analysis.
Memberships
- Association of Professional Genealogists Website Committee 2016
- Association of Professional Genealogists Virtual Chapter Representative 2016
- Association of Professional Genealogists Member
- Genealogist Mastermind Group
- Southern California Genealogical Society (German Interest Group)
- Immigrant Genealogy Society
- Utah Genealogical Association - Virtual Chapter
Continuing Education
- SCGS Jamboree 2016
- Salt Lake Institute for Genealogy 2016
- SCGS Jamboree 2015
- Salt Lake Institute for Genealogy 2015
- APG PMC 2015
- GenProof Study Group 37
- ProGen Study Group 17 (Group Leader)
- NGSQ Article Discussion Group A 2014 - 2015 (Coordinator)
- Salt Lake Institute for Genealogy 2014
- APG PMC 2014
- GenProof Study Group 6
- Salt Lake Institute for Genealogy 2013
- APG PMC 2013
- Brickwall Study Group 3