To write about past translators, we need to rely on archival material. This article sets out to look at Finnish archives and how they can be used in translation research to produce a microhistory of translators and translations. Archives are first discussed on a more general level and examples are then given to illustrate the different aspects of translators’ lives that become visible through archival study. The examples are from different archives and by different translators and are based on previous research of the present author. The aim is, thus, to give an overview of the aspects that a microhistory of translators and translations might consist of, rather than present an in-depth study of one single translator. The examples have been chosen to shed light on the Finnish translators’ working decisions and practices but also on their friendships, hardships, family matters and joys. The material used consists of letters, notes and manuscripts.