Legacy Family Tree is a genealogy software program for building, storing, and sharing family history, not a single online database. It is a desktop application published by Millennia Corporation, and it is often confused with the free FamilySearch Family Tree website, which is a collaborative online tree. This article explains what Legacy Family Tree is, how it works, how it compares to other tools, and what its limitations are.
What Is Legacy Family Tree?
Legacy Family Tree is a Windows-based genealogy program that lets you record family relationships, sources, notes, photos, and stories. It has been sold since the late 1990s and is known for its depth of features, especially for source citation and report generation. The software is installed on your computer, and your data is stored in a local file, which you control. It is not a website where you browse other people’s trees, although it can sync with online services.
How It Works: Local Data and Sync
You enter information directly into the program: names, dates, places, relationships, and sources. The data is saved in a file format (usually .fdb, Legacy’s native format). You can then:
- Generate charts and reports (family group sheets, pedigree charts, descendant charts).
- Attach photos and scanned documents to individuals.
- Create source citations using built-in templates.
- Sync selected individuals with FamilySearch Family Tree (free) or MyHeritage (subscription).
The sync feature is two-way: you can pull information from FamilySearch or push your own data to it. However, the sync is not automatic for all fields; you choose what to send and receive.
Key Features That Set It Apart
Legacy is often praised for its source citation tools and its “Research Guidance” feature, which suggests records to search based on an individual’s time and place. Other notable features include:
- Color-coding for direct ancestors vs. collateral relatives.
- To-do lists and research notes attached to individuals.
- Relationship calculator to determine how two people are related.
- Multimedia gallery for photos, videos, and audio.
It also supports the GEDCOM format, the standard file type for exchanging genealogy data between programs, though GEDCOM has limitations (e.g., it doesn’t handle all multimedia or source details well).
How to Choose Between Legacy and Other Software
If you are deciding on a genealogy program, consider your operating system and your needs:
- Legacy Family Tree – Windows only, powerful for source citation, has a free standard edition with limited features.
- RootsMagic – Windows and Mac, similar features, also syncs with FamilySearch and Ancestry.
- Family Tree Maker – Windows and Mac, integrates with Ancestry.com, but has a subscription cost for full use.
- Gramps – Free, open-source, cross-platform, but has a steeper learning curve.
If you are on a Mac, Legacy does not run natively; you would need to use a Windows emulator or choose another program. If you want to collaborate on a single online tree, then FamilySearch Family Tree (free) or Ancestry’s tree (subscription) might be better.
Common Problems and Misconceptions
A frequent misconception is that Legacy Family Tree is the same as FamilySearch Family Tree. They are different: FamilySearch is a free website run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and its tree is a single shared tree where many users edit the same individuals. Legacy is a desktop program that can connect to that shared tree but does not replace it.
Another common issue is data loss or corruption. Because Legacy stores data locally, you must back up your files regularly. The program offers a backup feature, but users often forget to use it. Also, when syncing with FamilySearch, you might inadvertently overwrite your own data with someone else’s changes, so review each sync carefully.
Users also complain that the free version of Legacy is limited: it does not include all reports or the ability to sync with FamilySearch (that requires the Deluxe version, which costs money).
Costs and Versions
Legacy Family Tree has a free standard edition and a paid Deluxe edition. The Deluxe version costs around $40 (as of recent years, but check the official site for current pricing). The free version is not a trial; it is fully functional for basic genealogy, but it lacks some advanced features like:
- FamilySearch syncing
- Some charting options
- Multimedia management
- Research guidance
The Deluxe version also includes free updates for a period, and you can purchase a CD or download. There is no subscription required to use the software itself, but some online services (like MyHeritage) have their own fees.
Safety and Privacy
Since Legacy stores data on your computer, you are responsible for its security. Use a strong password for your computer and consider encrypting your backup files. When you sync with FamilySearch or MyHeritage, you are sharing your data with those services, so read their privacy policies. Be cautious about sharing information about living people; most genealogy best practices recommend not publishing details of living individuals without their consent.
Also, be aware that any data you upload to FamilySearch becomes part of a public tree, and other users can edit it. If you have sensitive information, keep it only in your local Legacy file.
Alternatives to Legacy Family Tree
If Legacy does not suit you, here are other popular options:
- FamilySearch Family Tree – free, collaborative, web-based, but you do not own the data.
- Ancestry.com – subscription-based, huge record collection, but the tree is not exportable in a fully functional way unless you use GEDCOM.
- MyHeritage – subscription, has DNA integration and smart matching.
- Gramps – free, open-source, no cloud features.
Each has its strengths and weaknesses. Legacy is best for researchers who want a powerful desktop tool with detailed source citations and who are comfortable managing their own data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Legacy Family Tree free? Yes, there is a free standard edition, but it lacks some features. The Deluxe edition costs about $40 and includes syncing and advanced reports.
Can I use Legacy on a Mac? Not natively. You would need to run Windows in a virtual machine or use a program like CrossOver, which may not work perfectly.
Does Legacy work with Ancestry.com? No direct sync, but you can import/export GEDCOM files. For direct integration, consider Family Tree Maker.
How do I back up my Legacy data? Use the built-in backup tool to create a .fdb backup file, and also copy that file to an external drive or cloud storage.
What is the difference between Legacy and FamilySearch Family Tree? Legacy is a desktop program you install; FamilySearch is a website. Legacy can sync with FamilySearch, but they are separate systems.
Can I share my Legacy tree with relatives? Yes, you can print reports, export GEDCOM, or create a website using Legacy’s web publishing feature (in Deluxe).
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