Sample Record Transcriptions and Abstracts
Learn how to accurately transcribe and abstract parish, scrip, and census records to build clear, verifiable documentation for your Métis family research.
Overview
Transcribing and abstracting historical records is a fundamental skill in Métis genealogy research. These techniques help you extract accurate information from handwritten documents, preserve evidence, and organize findings for registry applications and family history documentation.
Why This Matters in Métis Research
Historical Document Challenges
- Many Métis ancestors appear in handwritten parish registers, scrip applications, and historic censuses
- These records may have inconsistent spelling, French and Latin terminology, or abbreviations
Research Benefits
- Accurate transcription preserves evidence, while abstracting allows for easier tracking in charts and applications
- Registries may require either transcription excerpts or abstracts when proving ancestry
Transcription vs. Abstract: What's the Difference?
Transcription
A word-for-word copy of the original record, preserving:
- Original spelling and abbreviations
- Line breaks and punctuation
- Illegible words noted as [illegible]
- Exact formatting and structure
Abstract
A condensed summary of key information:
- Names (spelled as found)
- Dates and places
- Key relationships
- Excludes unrelated details
Section 1: Parish Records
Example Record
St. Laurent, Manitoba Parish Register (Baptisms, 1888)
Image reference (public domain microfilm LAC H-1347, translated):
"Le vingt six août mil huit cent quatre vingt huit, je soussigné, prêtre, ai baptisé Louis, né le vingt quatre du même mois, fils légitime de Thomas Beaulieu, cultivateur, et de Marguerite Fisher de cette paroisse. Parrain, Jean Baptiste L'Hirondelle, marraine, Marie Hamelin."
Transcription
Le vingt six août mil huit cent quatre vingt huit, je soussigné, prêtre, ai baptisé Louis, né le vingt quatre du même mois, fils légitime de Thomas Beaulieu, cultivateur, et de Marguerite Fisher de cette paroisse. Parrain, Jean Baptiste L'Hirondelle, marraine, Marie Hamelin.
Abstract
Date: 26 August 1888
Place: St. Laurent, MB
Event: Baptism of Louis, born 24 August 1888
Parents: Thomas Beaulieu (farmer) and Marguerite Fisher, St. Laurent
Godparents: Jean Baptiste L'Hirondelle, Marie Hamelin
Source: St. Laurent Parish Register, Baptisms, 1888, LAC microfilm H-1347.
Notes for Researchers
- Preserve diacritics (é, è) if possible in digital files
- Record French terminology accurately (e.g., "paroisse" = parish, "cultivateur" = farmer)
- Always cite the exact microfilm or digital collection you used
- Note any unclear handwriting or damaged text
Section 2: Scrip Records
Example Record
Dominion Lands Branch Scrip Affidavit for Pierre Beaulieu (1885)
"I, Pierre Beaulieu, of St. Laurent, farmer, declare that I am a Half-Breed head of family, age 35 years, born at Red River. My father was Jean Beaulieu, a Half-Breed, and my mother was Marie L'Hirondelle, also a Half-Breed."
Transcription
I, Pierre Beaulieu, of St. Laurent, farmer, declare that I am a Half-Breed head of family, age 35 years, born at Red River. My father was Jean Beaulieu, a Half-Breed, and my mother was Marie L'Hirondelle, also a Half-Breed.
Abstract
Name: Pierre Beaulieu
Age: 35 (b. ~1850)
Place of Birth: Red River
Current Residence: St. Laurent
Parents: Jean Beaulieu (Métis), Marie L'Hirondelle (Métis)
Event: Scrip affidavit declaring Métis status, 1885
Source: Dominion Lands Branch Scrip Affidavits, 1885, Library and Archives Canada, RG15.
Notes for Researchers
- Note terminology ("Half-Breed") is historical and used as found for accuracy
- Identify the exact scrip type (money or land scrip) for clarity
- Record the file or claim number for registry applications
- Note any witnesses or additional family members mentioned
Section 3: Census Records
Example Record
1901 Canada Census, St. Laurent, Manitoba
| Name | Rel. | Mar. | DOB | Age | Place of Birth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beaulieu, Pierre | Head | M | 14 Mar 1850 | 51 | Manitoba |
| Beaulieu, Marie | Wife | M | 21 May 1855 | 45 | Manitoba |
| Beaulieu, Louis | Son | S | 24 Aug 1888 | 12 | Manitoba |
Transcription
Beaulieu, Pierre, Head, M, 14 Mar 1850, 51, Manitoba
Beaulieu, Marie, Wife, M, 21 May 1855, 45, Manitoba
Beaulieu, Louis, Son, S, 24 Aug 1888, 12, Manitoba
Abstract
Household of Pierre Beaulieu, St. Laurent, MB (1901):
- • Pierre Beaulieu (b. 14 Mar 1850, age 51)
- • Wife: Marie Beaulieu (b. 21 May 1855, age 45)
- • Son: Louis Beaulieu (b. 24 Aug 1888, age 12)
Source: 1901 Canada Census, St. Laurent, Manitoba, District 16, Sub-District A, Page 5.
Notes for Researchers
- Record all family members, including boarders and servants
- Note occupations, education levels, and origins when listed
- Include district, sub-district, and page numbers for precise citation
- Cross-reference ages and birthdates with other records
Best Practices for Transcribing and Abstracting
Essential Guidelines
- Work from clear digital images when possible
- Record the archive, microfilm, digital collection, and file/page number
- Use consistent formats for all records in your research binder
Handling Uncertainties
- Note uncertainties using brackets [ ] or question marks for partial names
- Mark illegible text as [illegible] or [unclear]
- Include researcher notes for context or interpretation
Pro Tip
Always create both a transcription and an abstract. The transcription preserves the original evidence, while the abstract makes the information easier to use in family charts and applications.
Downloadable Templates
Transcription Template
Record document image, full transcription, source citation, and notes.
Word - Coming SoonAbstract Template
Structured fields for name, date, event, parents, location, and source.
Word - Coming SoonPractice Exercise Template
Fill in blanks using your own family's records to learn transcription skills.
PDF - Coming SoonNext Steps
Practice by transcribing and abstracting one parish record in your research this week.
Pair these with your Name Variations Tracking Sheet for consistency.