Chinese language key references and resources

Here are some free digital tools that could possibly help translate sections of your jiapu:

• Google Translate: Use the photo-translate feature to scan and translate characters directly from the jiapu.
• Pleco: A popular Chinese dictionary app that offers character lookup by handwriting, radicals, or photo input.
• Hanping Chinese: A versatile app for looking up Chinese characters and words, with handwriting and speech input options.
• Zhongwen: A Chrome browser extension that lets you hover over Chinese characters on web pages to see instant translations.
• ChatGPT: A conversational AI tool that can assist with interpreting or translating challenging phrases from your jiapu. You can paste text or describe the context for better understanding.

(Disclaimer: These tools are powerful but not perfect. They may occasionally produce inaccuracies or misinterpretations, especially for rare or older Chinese characters in genealogical texts. Always cross-check results and consult native speakers or experts for critical translations.)

Sometimes the best help is closer than you think:

• Ask Family Members: Relatives, especially older generations, may already have knowledge of your family's jiapu or know someone who can read Chinese. They might also recall stories or details that give you clues.
• Contact Friends or Local Communities: If you know anyone who speaks or reads Chinese, ask them for help. Local Chinese cultural organizations or language groups can also provide assistance.
• Visit Libraries or Community Centers: Many libraries, especially those in areas with Chinese communities, have staff or resources dedicated to genealogical research.
• Check Chinese Churches or Ancestral Halls: Community centers or places of worship often have members who are familiar with jiapu or Chinese genealogy. They may also host cultural classes or workshops.

Even a small vocabulary can help:

• Reference the Jiapu and Gravestone Character Guide (linked above) to identify key terms.
• Focus on learning the most common Chinese characters used in jiapu (e.g., 生 for "birth," 死 for "death," 男 for "son," 女 for "daughter").

Reach out to experienced genealogists for assistance:

• Join forums like the FamilySearch Chinese Research Community (中文家譜尋根) to connect with volunteers who can guide you through your jiapu.
• Participate in Reddit's FamilySearch Subreddit or Genealogy Subreddit for crowd-sourced advice.

If you need more detailed support, consider:

• Using possible translation services available at your local FamilySearch Center or genealogical libraries.
• Hiring a translator who specializes in Classical Chinese and genealogical records. Look for professionals with experience in jiapu-specific translation.