FamilySearch is one of the best sites out there for researching genealogy. They came online almost twenty-five years ago, with a simple format that basically coughed up lists. Originally this included some census records, a couple of databases and their International Genealogy Index (IGI), which is a database that included many primary records as well as many undocumented sources. Over the years, they have continued to update and improve their website eventually doing away with the IGI and now offering digitized records. About eleven years ago, they added a family tree component to their page, which is basically a crowd-sourced tree. So if you realize that the tree you are adding to is NOT your tree and that anyone can add whatever they like to the tree….even if it is not accurate information about your grandfather – Then go ahead and add to it!
I initially was apprehensive about contributing to the tree. So apprehensive in fact, that I did not even look at it for almost ten years, mostly because wrong information drives me wacky! I can fix it of course…but someone can fix it back too. But eventually I thought why not. At least I could enter the information that pertains directly to me. I’ve added picture of ancestors, and some stories too, I have even added to branches of family lines to the tree that I am researching.
If you do not want to buy an Ancestry membership, then I would recommend keeping your tree on your computer, so do not rely on the FamilySearch tree to keep your research; mostly because someone can change it. Consider the FamilySearch tree as a clue and not fact. Do your own research and find your own documents (proof). The FamilySearch tree initially seems easy to use, first you will have to sign up for a membership. It’s free (I love free!), and therefore, they will not ask you for a credit card. The tree also has ways of attaching sources to it, which is nice as it helps prove the line. There is also a way to change information, delete people (or move them to another branch), and merge duplicate records, but I admit it is tricky to do. The learning curve is huge, and you will make mistakes. When I get stuck, I stop trying to fix it and hope someone will come along who knows how to fix my errors…I also imagine them cursing me out!
I think the FamilySearch tree is worth a try. It is a great source that can point you in a new direction…or confirm you are on the right track. But keep in mind just as easily it can be right…it can be wrong! Think of it as a clue and not fact…it is just another tool in you toolkit.
Laurie L. Kearney 