Prune & Share Family Tree Branches

Introduction

Genealogists and family historians often need to extract specific branches from their Ancestry family tree for research, collaboration, or sharing with relatives. Unfortunately, Ancestry does not provide built-in tools to easily extract partial branches/limbs of their online trees into GEDCOM files. However, by using GRAMPS, a powerful free genealogy software, users can effectively prune family trees and extract specific branches. Additionally, Family Echo provides a simple way to view and share these extracted sections. This approach is simple, cost-free, and helps genealogists manage their data more effectively.

The Process

Step 1: Export the Full GEDCOM from Ancestry

Navigate to your family tree on Ancestry.
Click on “Tree Settings.”
Select “Export tree” and download the GEDCOM file once it is ready.

Step 2: Prune and Extract a Branch Using GRAMPS

Download and install GRAMPS from https://gramps-project.org/.
Open GRAMPS and create a new family tree database.
Import your Ancestry GEDCOM into GRAMPS.
Navigate to the People View or Family View to locate the individual whose branch you want to extract.
Use GRAMPS’ Relationship Filter or Descendant Report tools to isolate the desired family branch.
Once identified, use the Export GEDCOM function with the “Filtered Export” option to save only the selected branch as a separate GEDCOM file.

Step 3: Upload the Extracted GEDCOM to Family Echo (Optional for Sharing)

Go to Family Echo.
Click “Import GEDCOM” and select the file you created in GRAMPS.
Family Echo will process and display your extracted branch.
Use the “Share” feature to send the tree to relatives or collaborators.

Benefits of Using GRAMPS for GEDCOM Pruning

Precise Branch Extraction: GRAMPS allows for selective filtering, making it easy to extract specific family lines without unnecessary data.
Data Integrity: Unlike some web-based tools, GRAMPS ensures full retention of names, dates, relationships, and additional details.
Free and Open-Source: No cost or subscription is required, and it works on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Advanced Genealogy Features: Beyond pruning, GRAMPS provides in-depth reports, relationship analysis, and visual family tree tools.
Compatible with Other Software: The exported GEDCOM files work seamlessly with Ancestry, RootsMagic, Family Tree Maker, and other genealogy programs.

Conclusion

By utilizing GRAMPS as a powerful GEDCOM editor and Family Echo for simplified sharing, genealogists can efficiently extract, manage, and distribute specific sections of their Ancestry tree. This method provides a practical solution for collaborative research while maintaining the integrity of family history data.