May 1, 2026
Recently several new genealogists asked me the best way to organize and save their genealogy. The answer is simple: It depends. Putting that into practice isn’t so simple. Your genealogy goals will determine why, how and where you store your genealogy information.
Most of us start our genealogy journey by jotting down notes on scraps of paper. Eventually, we transfer the information onto paper forms such as family group sheets. For someone who is working on a limited tree, these paper records may suffice. For most of us paper and pencil are limited. Any time we make a mistake or enter someone in the wrong place, it means re-writing a complete tree. Also, as our family grows, our paper trees may begin to cover multiple sheets of paper. Finding someone can be difficult.
For many, the next step is a genealogy software program. These are paid (or sometimes free) programs that are downloaded to a personal computer. Some of the popular ones include Reunion, Family Tree Maker and Roots Magic.
Software programs make it easy to input information, make corrections and store documents and photos. The information is saved to your own computer, although some of the programs, such as Family Tree Maker, can be synced to online genealogy websites such as Ancestry.com.
A big advantage to personal computer software is privacy. If you choose not to sync to the internet, the information you add to a program is completely private. You do not need to worry about making an error on your tree that will be copied by anyone else. In addition, it allows you to include sensitive family information that you may not want others to see.
Another popular way to save your family tree is on one of the genealogy websites. Sites such as Ancestry, My Heritage and Family Search allow you to make a family tree. Many people like these trees since they are free (although searching websites for additional information may require a paid subscription).
A benefit of putting your tree on a large website is that many people will potentially see it. This may lead to connections with distant cousins who can help add to your tree. You can also search other people’s trees for clues to help advance your research.
The disadvantage of these websites is that you have no control over the information you post on them. The company may go bankrupt or may decide to charge for access to the trees posted. Most of the sites will allow you to delete a tree if you decide you no longer want it on the site. However, there are no guarantees that this will always be the case.
There are pros and cons to all genealogy storage methods. Whichever method or combination of methods you use will depend on your personal genealogy goals.
Carol Stetser
Researcher
Larimer County Genealogical Society