In the book on microfilm, "Maudacher Einwohner von 1268 bis 1875," an ancestor has the following after his name: "1685: Handzeichen (S. 105, Nr.9)." Literally translated the word means hand signal. The S. means see page 105. This page contains 16 symbols numbered 1 to 16 (website for viewing symbols is below). Symbols include: the letters E, X, M, U, A, and HF - the letters are not sequential; a stick figure resembling a lamb; 2 circles connected and look like glasses; 3 unequal parallel lines; a stick figure of a fur tree; a stick figure of a person slightly bending at the hips and with a protruding abdomen; a triangle; and 4 more difficult to describe. The symbol, HF, could be the initials of either my ancestor or his son. The book has their names as Georg Fin(c)k and Hans Georg Fin(c)k respectively but Georg was Johann (Hans) Georg in later records from another town. I am hoping someone can help me better understand what the above means. I have concluded that all of the symbols could not be made with hands while speaking. So what were the symbols used for; e.g., communicating in writing? But that doesn't seem to make sense for some of the symbols. Does Handzeichen refer to an occupation? I cannot find it in various lists of translations of occupations? Knowledge or opinions of what this is all about will be appreciated. These symbols can be viewed at the following web site: http://members.aol.com/_ht_a/lutzem/myhomepage/maudachhandfinck.jpg Evelyn Lutz Ohio