Genealogy Charts

Genealogy

Apr 2

Genealogy charts are an excellent way to visualize and document family relationships and histories. There are several types of genealogy charts, each serving a specific purpose. In this blog post, we will explore the various types of genealogy charts and their uses.

I. Pedigree Chart

A pedigree chart is a graphical representation of a family tree that shows the ancestral relationships of an individual in a vertical format. It is also known as an ancestor chart or lineage chart. A pedigree chart typically starts with the individual being studied and then lists their parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, and so on. This chart allows you to trace your ancestry back several generations and identify important family connections.

Components of a Pedigree Chart:

A pedigree chart consists of several components, including the following:

Individual boxes: Each box represents a person, with their name, birth and death dates, and other relevant information.
Connecting lines: These lines show the connections between individuals, such as parent-child, spouse, and sibling relationships.
Generations: Each row of boxes represents a new generation, with the earliest generation at the bottom and the most recent at the top.
Symbols: Some pedigree charts may include symbols to indicate gender, whether an individual is still alive or deceased or other relevant information.

How to Create a Pedigree Chart:

To create a pedigree chart, you can use software programs like Microsoft Word or Excel, or online genealogy tools like Ancestry or FamilySearch. Alternatively, you can create a pedigree chart by hand using paper and pencil.

Example:

Here is an example of a simple pedigree chart created in Rootsmagic:

II. Ancestral Chart

An ancestral chart, also known as a family tree chart or genealogy chart, is a graphical representation of a person's ancestry, including their direct ancestors, siblings, and sometimes extended family members. Unlike a pedigree chart, which focuses on an individual's direct lineage, an ancestral chart provides a broader view of a person's family history.

Components of an Ancestral Chart:

An ancestral chart typically includes the following components:

Individual boxes: Each box represents a person, with their name, birth and death dates, and other relevant information.
Connecting lines: These lines show the connections between individuals, such as parent-child, spouse, and sibling relationships.
Generations: Each row of boxes represents a new generation, with the earliest generation at the bottom and the most recent at the top.
Symbols: Some ancestral charts may include symbols to indicate gender, whether an individual is still alive or deceased, or other relevant information.

How to Create an Ancestral Chart:

Creating an ancestral chart is similar to creating a pedigree chart. You can use software programs like Microsoft Word or Excel, or online genealogy tools like Ancestry or FamilySearch. Alternatively, you can create an ancestral chart by hand using paper and pencil.

III. Descendant Chart

A descendant chart is a genealogy chart that shows the descendants of an individual or couple. It is also known as a family group sheet or lineage chart. This type of chart allows you to trace the descendants of a particular ancestor, identify their spouses and children, and track the growth and spread of a family over time.

Components of a Descendant Chart:

A descendant chart typically includes the following components:

Individual boxes: Each box represents a person, with their name, birth and death dates, and other relevant information.
Connecting lines: These lines show the connections between individuals, such as parent-child, spouse, and sibling relationships.
Generations: Each row of boxes represents a new generation, with the earliest generation at the top and the most recent at the bottom.
Symbols: Some descendant charts may include symbols to indicate gender, whether an individual is still alive or deceased, or other relevant information.

How to Create a Descendant Chart:

To create a descendant chart, you can use software programs like Microsoft Word or Excel, or online genealogy tools like Ancestry or FamilySearch. Alternatively, you can create a descendant chart by hand using paper and pencil.

A descendant chart can help you understand the growth and spread of your family over time, as well as identify potential areas for further research, such as identifying missing or unknown descendants. It can also provide a useful tool for family members to connect and communicate with each other, particularly for large or extended families.

IV. Hourglass Chart

An hourglass chart, also known as a bowtie chart, is a genealogy chart that displays the ancestors and descendants of a couple. It is called an hourglass chart because it resembles an hourglass, with the couple in the middle and their ancestors and descendants on either side.

Components of an Hourglass Chart:

An hourglass chart typically includes the following components:

Individual boxes: Each box represents a person, with their name, birth and death dates, and other relevant information.
Connecting lines: These lines show the connections between individuals, such as parent-child, spouse, and sibling relationships.
Generations: Each row of boxes represents a new generation, with the earliest generation at the top and the most recent at the bottom.
Symbols: Some hourglass charts may include symbols to indicate gender, whether an individual is still alive or deceased, or other relevant information.

How to Create an Hourglass Chart:

To create an hourglass chart, you can use software programs like Microsoft Word or Excel, or online genealogy tools like Ancestry or FamilySearch. Alternatively, you can create an hourglass chart by hand using paper and pencil.

An hourglass chart can help you understand the relationships between a couple and their ancestors and descendants, as well as identify potential areas for further research, such as identifying missing or unknown ancestors or descendants. It can also provide a useful tool for family members to connect and communicate with each other, particularly for extended families.

V. Fan Chart

A fan chart is a genealogy chart that displays a person's direct lineage in a circular shape, with the person being studied at the center and their ancestors branching outwards in a fan-like pattern. This type of chart is also known as a radial chart.

Components of a Fan Chart:

A fan chart typically includes the following components:

Inner circle: The innermost circle represents the person being studied.
Spokes: The spokes extend outwards from the center and represent the person's direct lineage, typically including parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, and so on.
Outer rings: Each ring represents a new generation, with the earliest generation at the outermost ring and the most recent at the inner rings.
Symbols: Some fan charts may include symbols to indicate gender, whether an individual is still alive or deceased, or other relevant information.

How to Create a Fan Chart:

To create a fan chart, you can use software programs like Microsoft Word or Excel, or online genealogy tools like Ancestry or FamilySearch. Alternatively, you can create a fan chart by hand using paper and pencil.

Example:

Here is an example of a simple fan chart:

A fan chart can help you visualize your direct lineage in a unique and visually appealing way, and can also provide a quick reference guide for your family history. It can be a useful tool for family members to connect and communicate with each other, particularly for extended families.

VI. Bow Tie Chart

A bowtie chart, also known as an hourglass chart, is a genealogy chart that displays the ancestors and descendants of a couple in a bowtie-shaped pattern. It is similar to an hourglass chart, but with a more symmetrical appearance.

Components of a Bowtie Chart:

A bowtie chart typically includes the following components:

Individual boxes: Each box represents a person, with their name, birth and death dates, and other relevant information.
Connecting lines: These lines show the connections between individuals, such as parent-child, spouse, and sibling relationships.
Generations: Each row of boxes represents a new generation, with the earliest generation at the top and the most recent at the bottom.
Symbols: Some bowtie charts may include symbols to indicate gender, whether an individual is still alive or deceased, or other relevant information.

How to Create a Bowtie Chart:

To create a bowtie chart, you can use software programs like Microsoft Word or Excel, or online genealogy tools like Ancestry or FamilySearch. Alternatively, you can create a bowtie chart by hand using paper and pencil.

A bowtie chart can help you understand the relationships between a couple and their ancestors and descendants, as well as identify potential areas for further research, such as identifying missing or unknown ancestors or descendants. It can also provide a useful tool for family members to connect and communicate with each other, particularly for extended families.

Conclusion:

Genealogy charts can help you better understand your family history and relationships. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced genealogist, understanding the different types of genealogy charts and their uses can be invaluable. By using these charts, you can build a more complete picture of your family's past and present.

Kristina Hewitt