WikiTree
Free shared family tree with source-backed profiles and DNA links.
WikiTree is a collaborative genealogy site where members build one shared family tree rather than separate private trees. Profiles are intended to be supported by reliable sources, with community discussion, relationship tools, and DNA-linked connections helping users verify and extend family lines.
Why it stands out
- Built around one collaborative tree, reducing duplicate isolated family trees.
- Strong emphasis on sourced profiles rather than unsourced name collection.
- Large long-running community with millions of profiles and DNA-linked connections.
- Free access model, with costs supported by unobtrusive advertising.
- Community workflows encourage members to ask for help and improve each other’s research.
Good to know
- Because it is a shared public tree, edits and conclusions may require collaboration rather than full individual control.
- Profile quality depends on the sources and care contributed by community members.
- The site describes DNA connections, but it is not presented as a DNA testing service itself.
- Non-Honor-Code visitors may see advertising, since ads help fund the free service.
Under the radar: Try the rotating Connection Checker challenge even if you are not focused on notable people; it can reveal unexpected branches where your sourced research may connect into the larger tree.
Photos
Genealogists and family historians who want to contribute sourced profiles to a single shared tree can use WikiTree to coordinate research with distant cousins. Trace how you may connect to historical figures or other public profiles. Add researched ancestors so future relatives can find and improve the same profiles. Ask genealogy questions and request help from the G2G community forum. Use DNA-linked profiles as clues alongside traditional documentary evidence.
Shared global family tree; person search and advanced search; public profile examples; relationship and connection checkers; DNA connection indicators; G2G discussion forum; surname activity lists; community challenges and weekly questions.
Alternative listings
Desktop genealogy software for building and documenting family trees.
Genealogy & family-history researchLegacy Family Tree is downloadable genealogy software for organizing family members, sources, media, research tasks, and family-history findings. It supports research hints from major genealogy sites and includes a large set of charts and reports for sharing or publishing your work.
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Genealogy & family-history researchAncestris is a free genealogy application for building and maintaining family trees on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It emphasizes user-controlled data by storing research in GEDCOM files rather than tying it to a paid service or proprietary database. The software includes tools for editing, visualizing, analyzing, merging, and publishing genealogy work.
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Similar sites elsewhere
- FamilySearch — familysearch.org
- Geni — geni.com
- Ancestry — ancestry.com
- MyHeritage — myheritage.com
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