Family Tree Diagrams
There are many styles of family tree diagrams, also called family tree charts. Not all families are the same, so not all family tree charts are designed to present information in the same way. Be sure that you select the right chart format to best portray your family history.
Types and Purposes
Basically a family tree chart is a way to present and publish the information gathered through genealogy research. Charts can be published throughout the project and used as a place to take notes. Some people only publish charts when they want to share their information with others. Either way, it is important to know the various types of charts available and their individual advantages.
Pedigree Chart
This is the most common style of chart since it is easy to draw and understand. The pedigree chart is created starting with the information about one person at the top or from the side of the page. Information on that person's parents and other direct-line ancestors are then drawn as lines off of the original person. The pedigree chart can include any number of generations and can grow to any size chart. You can draw your own chart or download a pre-designed template to complete with your research findings.
Specialized pedigree charts are also available for families with adopted children. These charts provide space for both the biological and adoptive parents.
Hourglass Chart
This is a pedigree-type chart with a different layout of the information. The hourglass chart shows the information on one person in the center of the chart and then lists the information about each of their ancestors drawn as lines up to the top of the chart and information about their descendants shown with lines drawn down to the bottom of the chart. This is a particularly good format to use when the person in the center of the chart has a somewhat equal number of ancestors and descendents.
Bow Tie Chart
The bow tie chart separates the paternal and maternal ancestors onto separate sides of the chart. The information on one person is placed in the center of the page. Lines are drawn to the left to information about direct line maternal ancestors. Lines are drawn to the right to information about paternal ancestors. The position can be reversed with the maternal ancestors on the right and the paternal ancestors on the left. This format is good to use when the amount of research available is just about equal on both the maternal and paternal sides.
Fan Chart
The fan chart is a very visually interesting format and is frequently used to display multiple generations of family history. It is designed as a half-circle shape, displaying all direct line ancestors in a fan shape. The information about one person is placed in the center at the bottom of the page. Lines are drawn from that initial person to information about their direct line descendents.
Sources
There are many printable family tree diagrams available for download or purchase on the Internet. Some are basic, simply drawn forms. Others include artwork and images which make them favorites for use in family projects or to use for more complex family tree displays that are going to be framed.
LoveToKnow Genealogy offers several articles on locating and using family tree charts. Here are a few of these informative articles:
Specialty designs and sizes are also available from several Internet sources including:
- My Heritage - Enter ancestor info and then print the tree
- WikiTree - Select from various themed background images
- Enchanted Learning - Simply drawn family diagrams using a variety of basic shapes
- The Tree Maker - Five generation poster size chart with optional coat of arms and crest which is suitable for framing.
Tips for Using Family Tree Diagrams
- Print out blank forms to take with you to a family gathering such as a party, holiday celebration or reunion. You never know what tidbits of information you may be able to gather.
- Completing family tree diagrams can be a fun project for children. Depending on the age and interest levels of the children, you may want to get the children involved in the genealogy research or you may decide to have the project be limited to completing the diagram with information that has already been researched.
- Many genealogy software programs, both Windows and Mac formats, include a feature which prints the research directly into a pre-designed format. You may also be able to export the research from the genealogy program into a software program which is specifically-designed to prepare a wide range of genealogy chart formats and sizes.
Genealogy is an enjoyable hobby that allows you to use your investigative skills to research the details of your family's history. You can multiple the enjoyment of genealogy by sharing your research with others through the use of family tree charts.
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