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What Is A Genealogy Chart?
A genealogy chart is simply another name for a family tree. Many software programs come with applications that
allow for detailed information, including graphics or old family photos that can be scanned into the program.
For each family member, you should create an outline that includes name given at birth; date of birth, place of
birth; date of death; place of death; brothers and sisters, including the date and place of births, deaths, and
half-siblings (with relationship noted).
Depending on whether you are tracing your maternal (mother’s side) or paternal (father’s side) side, your genealogy
chart might be substantially more detailed and intense. Most hobbyists follow their father’s side of the family, as
they are looking for the ancestry of their surnames.
In addition to the information for your genealogy chart listed above, any additional information, dates of marriage
or divorce, and other life-cycle events, family churches, cemeteries, etc. can be included, either on the front of
the chart, if you have enough space, or if creating online, you can attach files or data sheets that can be
generated when a cursor is moved over a graphic on the page.
Many scrapbook companies and stores sell pages with genealogy charts on them, and stickers and other embellishments
to enhance your scrapbooking experience to be individually personalized for your own family. There are always some
details that can’t be confirmed, and there are limits to how far back you can go, depending on your Internet savvy,
financial commitments, and knowledge of your ancestors, but a genealogy chart is always fun to create.
There are also some embroidery (counted cross stitch) patterns that allow you to create your own family tree—one is
done with teddy bears! You can add or subtract all the elements depending on number of siblings or the number of
children you have. It’s a great gift for a new baby—a genealogy chart that can be treasured for the life of the
child (and future children), and will give the child a start on his or her own genealogical search.
A Very Rewarding Experience
Whether you choose to create your genealogy chart on paper or the computer, it is very rewarding to post your
genealogy charts so others who are interested can look and learn. There are so many people in the world; you know
there must be more than your immediate family. Encourage people who visit your site to sign your guestbook or drop
you a line to give you an idea of how far away these visitors to your site live from you (and whether or not they
really are your ancestors).
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