Any reccomendations for Family Tree software, research databases and websites - free, subscription of fee-for-service?

2015-03-12T13:10:03-04:00

I have been using Family Tree maker versions for over 10 years. My heritage is from England. I have found many databases in this country and England that provide limited free information - many online sites take you to Ancestry.com for a free 14-day trial. I found out some information on my family tree by chance in an Australian tree that is posted online. My wife's family is from Cuba, Canary Islands and Bolivia - Ancestry seems to be primarily focused on Europe and the USA. I am interested in any recommendations - positive or negative about Family Tree software and websites and searchable databases - especially free ones or very good ones with a trial period; information on any to avoid will be appreciated.

Response by PO1 Michael Fullmer made Mar 12 at 2015 2:47 PM

2015-03-12T14:47:49-04:00

I've used Ancestry.com which is a fee service, and FamilySearch.org which is a free one. There are several sites out there, some free, some that charge that I have also used. I personally use Family Tree Maker software, which is coordinated through Ancestry.com. However, while it does have active links to their service, it is by no means required to use the program. Let me know if I can be of any further assistance. I've been doing genealogy for many years.

Response by SSG Everett Wilson made Mar 12 at 2015 4:13 PM

2015-03-12T16:13:48-04:00

Like everything else it depends on your likes. I have been dabbing in my family tree since 1975. I have used the LDS Family History Centers, and the local Libraries. I found the LDS Family History Center to be very helpful, and have found a gold mine of information. Ancestry.com has helped me get past some brick walls. I have even found that Family Historical Assoc. to be a great source.
When I was using the LDS Family History Center, the staff were very helpful in answering my questions, even if they had to call someone else for assistance. Other researchers have been very willing to give advice and assistance. The hours are good for searching.
the one thing I like about Ancestry.com is that I can use it at anytime and not worry about the hours.
God speed and the best of luck in your search.

Response by PO2 Kimberly Miller made Mar 12 at 2015 7:23 PM

2015-03-12T19:23:07-04:00

Church of Latter Day Saints is big on helping with genealogy research. Their services are free, last time I had checked. Which I think is the website PO1 Fullmer already listed as familysearch.org

Response by SGT John Beardsley made Apr 3 at 2015 10:50 PM

2015-04-03T22:50:44-04:00

Hello Col. Ford.

If you haven't heard about the WikiTree project, please give it a gander.

WikiTree Welcome Page : http://www.wikitree.com/
My Profile on the WikiTree : http://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Beardsley-386

It is similar in concept as Wikipedia, except that it is family tree based. It is totally free, and committed to staying that way.

It is not a research platform, so you'll want to use another tree program for that. I use Ancestry.com and their Family Tree program as my main research tools, and then transfer the information over to the WikiTree. The LDS FamilySearch.org is a free research source, but I do not reccommend maintaining a tree there. Another research based platform is MyHeritage, their tree program is free but their research service is not, and when I used their service their upsell tactics repelled me.

You should also look at the tree programs RootsMagic and Legacy.

You might also consider the new field of genetic genealogy {using DNA as a genealogy tool} If you are interested in this, check out FTDNA, 23andMe and AncestryDNA. I've done the FTDNA tests and they've helped me connect many branches of my tree.
I even started a DNA project to use the results to help identify specific lineages within my family surname.

DNA Project Discussion Page : http://www.worldfamilies.net/surnames/beardsley/disc

Hope this will be of some help for you.

WikiTree.com

A community of genealogists on a mission to connect the human family on one FREE and accurate tree using traditional genealogical sources and DNA testing.

Response by SFC Jim Hunter made May 24 at 2015 6:01 PM

2015-05-24T18:01:58-04:00

I have worked (volunteered) at LDS Family History Centers for at least 20 years. And still do. There are a variety of software programs available, most of which have a free version. You can also try out Roots Magic, Ancestral Quest, Legacy and others at any FHC. Those companies have given a copy to each FHC for patrons to try. Personally, I have used Family Tree Maker, Family Origins, and its successor Roots Magic (free version). For a list try http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_genealogy_software

Comparison of genealogy software - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

(Trial limit of 10 runs)(Limit of 9 GenBases open on screen)(50 Person Free Trial)(No more than 5 GenBases can be created)

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 26 at 2016 11:41 AM

2016-03-26T11:41:14-04:00

I'm honestly not convinced any of those sites a worth a penny.

If you're interested in your lineage and happen to know the town your ancestors immigrated from go have a look in their city records

Response by SSgt Rilene Ann made Mar 26 at 2016 5:13 PM

2016-03-26T17:13:13-04:00

You pay for a month do all your searchig. you can always access tree without paying as only need membership for searching. i join once a year just like many relatives that link our trees

Response by SSG James Yellis made Mar 26 at 2016 5:40 PM

2016-03-26T17:40:33-04:00

I use Family search and Ancestry.com Sir