A handwriting recognition system converts word images on documents, such as document images of historical records, into computer searchable text. Word images (snippets) on the document are located, and have multiple word features identified. For each word image, a word feature vector is created representing multiple word features. Based on the similarity of word features (e.g., the distance between feature vectors), similar words are grouped together in clusters, and a centroid that has features most representative of words in the cluster is selected. A digitized text word is selected for each cluster based on review of a centroid in the cluster, and is assigned to all words in that cluster and is used as computer searchable text for those word images where they appear in documents. An analyst may review clusters to permit refinement of the parameters used for grouping words in clusters, including the adjustment of weights and other factors used for determining the distance between feature vectors.

A handwriting geometry recognition and calibration system by using neural network and mathematical feature includes: a pre-processor for pre-processing coordinate points of geometric figures from user's handwriting so as to get a plurality of sample points which expresses the geometric figures to be recognized; a neural network connected to the pre-processor for receiving the sample points of the geometric figure and recognizing the geometric figure so as to acquire a coarse class of the geometric figure; and an mathematical logic unit connected to the neural network for receiving recognition results from the neural network, including coarse classifications which are used in a secondary classification by using conventional mathematical recognition logics so as to determine an exact geometry shape of the geometric figure; then the geometric figure being calibrated so as to get a geometry with a regular shape.