Family Tree Magazine is a print and digital publication dedicated to genealogy and family history research, offering how-to articles, resource guides, and strategy tips for tracing ancestors. It was launched in 1999 by the F+W Media company and continues to be published today, with its website and social media channels providing daily content alongside the quarterly print issues.
Background and History
Family Tree Magazine was created to fill a growing need for accessible, practical genealogy guidance as interest in family history surged in the late 1990s. The magazine emerged alongside the early consumer internet, when online databases like Ancestry.com and FamilySearch were just beginning to digitize records. Its founders recognized that many people wanted to research their roots but lacked the technical and archival skills to do so effectively.
The publication was part of F+W Media, a company known for hobbyist magazines and books. Over the years, the magazine built a reputation for clear, actionable content, covering everything from census research to DNA testing. In 2021, the magazine transitioned to a quarterly print schedule, while expanding its digital offerings through its website, newsletters, and webinars. Today, it is widely regarded as one of the most trusted consumer genealogy magazines in the English-speaking world.
What the Magazine Covers
Each issue of Family Tree Magazine focuses on practical research strategies, not just historical facts. Regular features include:
- Record guides: In-depth explanations of specific record types—census, vital, military, land, and probate records—with tips on where to find them and how to interpret them.
- DNA testing: Articles on choosing tests, interpreting ethnicity estimates, and using DNA matches to break down brick walls.
- Technology tools: Reviews of genealogy software, apps, and websites, plus tutorials on using them effectively.
- Regional and ethnic research: Guides for tracing ancestors from specific countries or ethnic groups, often with lists of archives and repositories.
- Case studies: Real-life examples of how researchers solved difficult problems, showing step-by-step methodology.
The magazine also publishes special editions, such as “Family Tree University” workbooks and “Best Websites” guides, which are popular among both beginners and experienced genealogists.
How to Use the Magazine Effectively
To get the most out of Family Tree Magazine, approach it as a learning tool, not just a read. Start by skimming the table of contents and marking any articles that address your current research challenges. If you are new, look for the “Beginner’s Corner” or similar introductory columns that explain basic concepts like pedigree charts and source citations.
For more advanced readers, the magazine’s value lies in its methodology. When you encounter a case study, try to follow along with your own research: note the records used, the search strategies, and the logic behind each conclusion. This turns passive reading into active skill-building. Also, keep back issues or save digital copies—many articles contain checklists and templates that you can reuse for different ancestors.
Finally, take advantage of the magazine’s online extras. Subscribers often get access to downloadable forms, bonus articles, and archived webinars that are not available to non-subscribers. These supplements can save you hours of searching for the same information elsewhere.
Choosing Between Print and Digital
Family Tree Magazine offers both print and digital subscriptions, and the choice depends on your reading habits and research style. The print edition is ideal if you prefer to flip through pages, write notes in the margins, or keep a physical library of reference material. Many genealogists find that having a printed copy on their desk is helpful while working at a computer.
The digital edition, available through platforms like Zinio and the magazine’s own website, offers the same content with added convenience: you can search the text, zoom in on charts, and access issues from any device. Digital subscriptions are often slightly cheaper and include instant access to the current issue. However, some readers find that long articles are harder to read on a screen, especially those with detailed tables or maps.
If you are unsure, consider starting with a single print issue or a short digital subscription to test which format you prefer. Many genealogy societies also keep print copies in their libraries, so you can browse an issue before committing.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
One common issue readers face is information overload. With dozens of articles per issue, it is easy to feel overwhelmed or to jump between topics without finishing anything. To avoid this, set a specific research goal before you open the magazine—for example, “I want to learn how to find my great-grandfather’s ship manifest.” Then, read only the articles that directly support that goal.
Another problem is outdated advice. Genealogy technology changes quickly, and an article from five years ago may reference websites that no longer exist or DNA tests that have been discontinued. While Family Tree Magazine updates its content, older issues can still contain obsolete links. Always cross-check any website or tool mentioned with a quick online search before relying on it.
Finally, some readers mistakenly believe that the magazine’s advice is a substitute for professional help. While the magazine provides excellent guidance, it cannot replace the expertise of a certified genealogist for complex cases. If you hit a brick wall after following the magazine’s advice, consider hiring a professional or consulting a local genealogy society.
Costs and Subscription Options
As of 2024, a print subscription to Family Tree Magazine costs approximately $29.99 per year for four issues, while a digital subscription is around $19.99 per year. Single print issues are available for about $9.99, and digital single issues for about $7.99. The magazine often runs promotional discounts for new subscribers, especially during major holidays like Christmas or National Genealogy Day.
In addition to the regular subscription, the magazine sells special editions and back issues through its website. These are typically priced between $10 and $15 each. If you are a member of a genealogy society, check whether your society offers a group discount—some do, which can save you 20% or more.
It is also worth noting that the magazine’s website offers a free newsletter with weekly tips and links to new articles. This is a low-cost way to sample the magazine’s style before subscribing.
Alternatives and Comparisons
Family Tree Magazine is not the only genealogy publication, but it is one of the most accessible. Its main competitors include Internet Genealogy, which focuses heavily on online resources, and Your Genealogy Today, which leans toward Canadian and British research. For academic or deeply technical readers, the National Genealogical Society Quarterly offers peer-reviewed articles, but it is far more scholarly and expensive.
Compared to these, Family Tree Magazine stands out for its balance of beginner and intermediate content. It is less technical than the NGS Quarterly but more structured than a typical blog. It also has a stronger focus on DNA testing than most print competitors, making it a good choice for those interested in genetic genealogy.
If you prefer free resources, the FamilySearch Wiki and the Ancestry.com Learning Center offer similar how-to articles online, but they lack the editorial curation and depth of a magazine. For most hobbyists, a subscription to Family Tree Magazine is a worthwhile investment, but you may want to try a single issue first to see if it matches your learning style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Family Tree Magazine still in print? Yes, it is still published quarterly in print, with digital editions also available. The magazine has been in continuous publication since 1999, though its frequency changed from monthly to quarterly in 2021.
Does the magazine cover non-US genealogy? Yes, it regularly features articles on researching ancestors in the UK, Ireland, Germany, Italy, and many other countries. However, the primary focus is on US-based research, so international readers may find some content less relevant.
Are back issues available? Yes, you can purchase back issues in print or digital format from the magazine’s website. Some older issues are also available through digital newsstands like Zinio or Kindle.
Does the magazine provide access to actual records? No, the magazine is a guide, not a database. It tells you where to find records, but you will need to visit websites like Ancestry.com or FamilySearch.org to access the actual documents.
Is there a free version of the magazine? The full magazine is not free, but the website offers many free articles, a weekly newsletter, and occasional free webinars. You can also find select articles from past issues on the website.
Can I submit my own family history story to the magazine? Yes, the magazine accepts reader submissions and often features them in a “Family History” section. Check the website’s submission guidelines for current requirements.
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How pages are sourced and corrected: Sources and editorial policy.