Record Genealogy Data

Building a Family Tree


Why Build a Family Tree Chart

Studying ancestors is a rewarding experience. The information retrieved may be organised in a software program or on paper in a binder, however the best method of visualising how our ancestors fitted into our Family History is to put together a Family Tree Chart. A Chart will at a glance illustrate the relationships between our ancestors and show the date of births/marriages/deaths and as well as generation differences. Also it can be used as a guide to view our progress and indicate what pieces of information we are missing from our Family History research.

I would recommend starting a Family Tree chart from day 1 of starting your research. Doing this will motivate and help you drive your Genealogy study forward. See example of a Family Tree


How to Build a Family Tree Chart

  1. Create it Yourself
    If you want to create something personal, and your family is fairly small, then consider creating your own Family Tree. You can draw the basic connections in a line-and-box format, or get more creative by embellishing with vines, flowers, etc. You can also display the family in an actual tree format, using the roots for descendants and leaves (or apples) for the ancestors. Can't draw a straight line? Try SmartDraw (free trial available) to create any chart you can imagine.


  2. Branch Out With Software
    While most Genealogy software programs offer basic computer-generated Family Tree charts, you can get even better results by taking advantage of add-on programs. These add-on charting programs work in conjunction with your main Family History software.

    Family Tree Super Tools - This powerful utility from Wholly Genes Software, creators of The Master Genealogist, works with any Genealogy software program to provide powerful charting options, as well as a number of other useful tools. Once created, your customized chart can be printed on your own printer (they even print the cut marks for splicing together large charts that span multiple pages), or you can click to have it printed inexpensively on one large sheet of heavyweight paper via their Chartform Delivery service.

    Legacy Charting Companion - This add-on expands the charting capabilities of the Legacy Family Tree program, allowing you to create and print a variety of ancestor, descendant, hourglass, fan and bowtie charts from single page beauties to nine foot masterpieces.


  3. Use a Chart Printing Service
    If you want a pretty Genealogy chart without having to deal with designing and printing, try one of the many Family Tree Chart Printing Services who specialize in printing large Family Trees in both color and black and white. Some, such as Family Tree Illustration will custom design a chart for you, while others allow you to select from a number of different formats. Some require a Family History file in GEDCOM format, but some work from your own handwritten Family Tree. Perfect for family reunions and large frames, charts can usually be printed in large format.


  4. Pre-Printed Charts Make it Simple
    From basic pedigree charts to elaborate, rose-covered fan charts, pre-printed Genealogy charts make it easy to display your Family Tree in style. A number of simpler Family Tree charts are available for free download online, such as this free Family Tree chart with a muted tree background and embellished boxes. Other, more elaborate Family Tree charts are available for purchase from various vendors.


  5. Designer Family Trees
    If fancy is what you want, then there are a number of calligraphers and artists who can render your Family Tree on vellum or parchment with hand-drawn letters and elaborate designs.