Wikitree is one of my favourite family history websites. I believe that it is what family history should be all about. Working together as a community and striving to improve the quality of our research.
What is Wikitree?
Wikitree is online family tree. Unlike websites such as Ancestry, Findmypast and MyHeritage, members do not have their own trees. Instead, they add their research to the ‘one tree’.
Anyone can access the tree and use the information for free. If you register for an account (also free), then you can amend the tree.
The tree is formed by creating a profile for each person, then linking them to their parents, siblings, spouses and children.
More information on the Wikitree website.
Reasons to use Wikitree
A single tree
The cumulative effect of everyone adding their research to Wikitree is that it links more people together. You find more connections and more research clues. Wikitree may help you extend your research further.
Collaboration
Researchers working together and collaborating on person profiles improves the quality of the research. It encourages the evaluation of evidence and the correction of errors.
Wikitree is a community of real people. If you have the time, and the need, they have forums where you can participate in discussions and ask questions.
Quality
Wikitree strives hard to improve the quality of the information, by providing rules about format, suggested content and source citations. Members sign up to an Honor Code, making a commitment to participate in this endeavour.
DNA
Incorporating DNA into family history research is critical if you want to have an accurate family tree. Wikitree supports the integration of DNA results with document-based genealogy:
(i) members can add their test details to their profile, making it easier for other researchers to find them on the test websites;
(ii) it encourages citations that summarise how DNA has confirmed a relationship;
(iii) it tags the lines of the DNA tested member, so that others can follow the lines;
(iv) it provides a ton of guidance, such as suggestions about who should take tests.
Fun!
Wikitree encourages you to have fun with your family history. You can decorate people profiles with photos and stories, or find your connection to famous people (I am 25 degrees from Mariah Carey and 16 degrees from Donald Bradman).
You can also participate in events which are called ‘challenges’.
More information
For more of my articles about documenting your family history, go to the Document page.
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