Creating an online family tree is a wonderful way to document your family history, share it with relatives, and uncover new connections. Whether you’re a novice just starting your genealogical journey or an experienced researcher looking to digitize your records, this guide will provide you with everything you need to create a comprehensive and engaging online family tree.

Why Create an Online Family Tree?

An online family tree offers several benefits:

• Accessibility: Access your family tree from anywhere, anytime, and on any device.
• Collaboration: Invite family members to contribute their knowledge and help build a more complete family history.
• Preservation: Digital records are less susceptible to damage or loss compared to physical documents.
• Discovery: Online platforms often have access to vast databases of records that can help you discover new information about your ancestors.

Steps to Create an Online Family Tree

1. Choose the Right Platform

Selecting the right platform is crucial for creating your online family tree. Here are some popular options:

• Ancestry.com: One of the largest genealogy platforms, offering extensive record databases and DNA testing. (https://www.ancestry.com)
• MyHeritage: Known for its global reach and unique features like photo colorization and facial recognition. (https://www.myheritage.com)
• FamilySearch: A free resource with a vast collection of records maintained by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. (https://www.familysearch.org)
• Geni: A collaborative family tree platform that connects users with common ancestors. (https://www.geni.com)
• Findmypast: Specializes in British and Irish records, with a growing collection of U.S. records. (https://www.findmypast.com)

2. Gather Your Information

Before you start building your family tree online, gather as much information as possible:

• Personal Records: Birth, marriage, and death certificates, family Bibles, and personal letters.
• Photos and Documents: Old photographs, diaries, and legal documents.
• Interviews: Talk to older relatives to gather stories, names, and dates that might not be documented elsewhere.

3. Start with What You Know

Begin your family tree with the information you know for sure, typically starting with yourself and working backward:

• Enter Basic Details: Full names, birth dates, and places for yourself, your parents, and your grandparents.
• Add More Information: Include marriage dates, places of residence, and any significant events or stories.

4. Use Online Records

Online genealogy platforms offer access to a wealth of records that can help you fill in the gaps:

• Census Records: Useful for tracking family members across different decades.
• Immigration Records: Help trace ancestors’ journeys to new countries.
• Military Records: Provide details about ancestors who served in the armed forces.
• Church Records: Baptism, marriage, and burial records can offer vital information.

5. Validate and Cross-Check

It’s crucial to verify the information you find to ensure its accuracy:

• Multiple Sources: Cross-check information across multiple records.
• Cite Sources: Always note where each piece of information came from to track your research.

6. Add Photos and Stories

Enhance your family tree by adding photos, stories, and documents:

• Upload Photos: Add pictures of ancestors, documents, and significant places.
• Write Stories: Include anecdotes and stories that bring your ancestors to life.

7. Invite Family Members

Collaborate with relatives to expand your family tree:

• Invite Contributions: Encourage family members to add their knowledge and records.
• Share Access: Use the platform’s sharing features to allow others to view and edit the tree.

Tips and Tricks for Creating an Online Family Tree

For Novices:

1. Take It Step by Step: Don’t try to do everything at once. Start with the basics and gradually add more information.
2. Use Tutorials: Many platforms offer tutorials and help guides. Take advantage of these resources.
3. Stay Organized: Keep track of your sources and maintain a system for organizing your records.

For Experienced Genealogists:

1. Dive into DNA: Use DNA testing to uncover new relatives and validate your research.
2. Explore Advanced Features: Utilize tools like record hints, automated searches, and advanced filters.
3. Join Online Communities: Participate in forums and social media groups to share tips and discover new resources.

Additional Resources

• Cyndi’s List: A comprehensive directory of genealogy resources online. (https://www.cyndislist.com)
• The National Archives: Access to a wealth of historical records in the U.S. (https://www.archives.gov)
• Genealogy Gems: A blog and podcast offering tips, tricks, and news. (https://lisalouisecooke.com)
• Legacy Family Tree Webinars: Online genealogy classes and webinars. (https://familytreewebinars.com)

Conclusion

Creating an online family tree is a rewarding way to document and preserve your family history. By following these steps and utilizing the tips and tricks provided, you can build a comprehensive and engaging family tree that will be a valuable resource for generations to come. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of research under your belt, there’s always more to discover and share.

Happy researching!