How to Create Trees Using FamilySearch in Family Tree Maker 2019

Creating family trees is a central activity for genealogists, and tools like Family Tree Maker 2019 (FTM 2019) and FamilySearch make the process seamless and efficient. By integrating these platforms, you can create, expand, and refine your family tree with access to millions of records and collaborative features. This guide outlines the steps to create trees using FamilySearch in Family Tree Maker 2019.

Read full blog: Create a Family Tree Using FamilySearch

What You Need

1. Family Tree Maker 2019: Ensure your software is up to date. Check for updates by going to the Help menu and selecting “Check for Updates.”
2. FamilySearch Account: Create a free account at FamilySearch.org if you don’t already have one.
3. Internet Connection: Both FamilySearch and Family Tree Maker require an internet connection for syncing and downloading data.

Link Your FamilySearch Account to FTM 2019

To use FamilySearch with Family Tree Maker, you first need to link your accounts:

1. Open Family Tree Maker 2019.
2. Navigate to the “FamilySearch” workspace by clicking its tab on the upper right-hand side of the screen.
3. Sign in to your FamilySearch account. If this is your first time, you’ll be prompted to enter your login credentials.
4. Authorize the connection between Family Tree Maker and FamilySearch.

Once linked, you’ll be able to search FamilySearch’s database and match individuals from your tree to FamilySearch profiles.

Step 1: Start a New Tree in FTM 2019

You can create a new tree manually or by importing data:

1. Manual Entry:
   • Click “New Tree” on the Plan workspace.
   • Choose “Enter What You Know” to begin adding individuals and relationships manually.
   • Save your tree by assigning it a name and location on your computer.
2. Import GEDCOM File:
   • If you have an existing tree from another platform, select “Import an Existing Tree.”
   • Locate the GEDCOM file and import it into Family Tree Maker.
   • Verify the imported data for accuracy.

Step 2: Match Individuals with FamilySearch Profiles

Family Tree Maker allows you to match individuals in your tree with existing profiles on FamilySearch. This ensures your data is consistent and provides opportunities for collaboration.

1. Go to the “FamilySearch” workspace.
2. Select an individual from your tree.
3. In the “Match” tab, search for corresponding profiles in FamilySearch.
4. If a match is found, link the profiles by clicking “Match.” If no match exists, you can create a new profile on FamilySearch.
5. Repeat this process for other individuals in your tree.

Step 3: Sync Data Between FamilySearch and FTM 2019

Synchronization allows you to incorporate new information from FamilySearch into your tree and upload your data for others to see.

Download Information from FamilySearch

1. Select an individual in your tree.
2. In the “FamilySearch” workspace, click the “Compare” tab.
3. Review the differences between your data and the FamilySearch profile.
4. Select the information you want to download into your tree and click “Merge.”

Upload Information to FamilySearch

1. In the “Compare” tab, you can also upload information from your tree to FamilySearch.
2. Choose the data you want to share and click “Upload.”
3. Be cautious about overwriting existing information; ensure your data is accurate.

Step 4: Utilize FamilySearch Hints

FamilySearch provides hints that suggest records related to individuals in your tree. To take advantage of these:

1. Go to the “Hints” workspace in FTM 2019.
2. Review the hints provided by FamilySearch.
3. Attach relevant records to individuals in your tree.

Step 5: Collaborate with FamilySearch Users

FamilySearch allows you to collaborate with other researchers working on the same family lines:

1. Use the “FamilySearch” workspace to view who has contributed to specific profiles.
2. Contact contributors through FamilySearch to exchange information or discuss discrepancies.

Step 6: Regularly Back Up Your Tree

To prevent data loss, regularly back up your tree:

1. Go to the “File” menu in FTM 2019.
2. Select “Backup.”
3. Save the backup file to a secure location, such as an external hard drive or cloud storage.

Tips for Effective Tree Building

• Verify Sources: Always verify records before adding them to your tree.
• Stay Organized: Use FTM’s features, like color coding and notes, to keep your research organized.
• Respect Privacy: Avoid sharing sensitive information about living individuals without their consent.
• Collaborate Wisely: Engage with other researchers to expand your tree but ensure the information is accurate before adding it.

By following these steps, you can effectively use FamilySearch in Family Tree Maker 2019 to create a comprehensive and accurate family tree. The integration of these tools allows you to leverage the best features of both platforms, enhancing your genealogical research and preserving your family history for future generations.