The August Hermann Francke Study Centre’s summer course will take place from 24 to 28 August 2026 and offers a practical introduction to working with manuscripts and early printed books from the collections of the Francke Foundations’ archive and library. The focus is on both basic knowledge of German cursive script and palaeographic exercises, as well as intensive reading sessions on 17th- and 18th-century sources, particularly letters, register books and personal accounts. The programme is complemented by insights into the historical library and archive, including guided tours and practical advice on using the collections, as well as on researching bibliographies and networked databases. Topics such as the global correspondence of the Halle Orphanage, opportunities for biographical and genealogical research, and digital tools such as transcription software and AI applications will also be covered. Excursions as part of the course will include a visit to the archives of Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg.
In addition to academic exchange, a group dinner will provide an opportunity for networking.
The course (max. 15 participants) is open to anyone interested in learning or deepening their knowledge of working with historical sources.
You can register by 31 July 2026 with Dr Thomas Grunewald, Head of the Study Centre, at grunewald[at]francke-halle.de.
