Genealogy Chart Maker (Pedigree / Ancestor Chart)
In short: A pedigree chart traces one person's direct ancestors — parents, grandparents, great-grandparents. Start from the blank 4-generation chart, type names with birth and death dates and places, and print it. Import a GEDCOM from your genealogy software to fill it automatically; export GEDCOM back anytime.
How to use it
- Start with the 4- or 5-generation pedigree template.
- Fill in each ancestor's name, dates and places.
- Leave unknown boxes as they are or delete them.
- Print a PDF for your binder or share the link with cousins.
Pedigree chart vs family group sheet vs descendant chart
A pedigree (ancestor) chart goes backwards from one person. A descendant chart goes forward from a couple to all their children and grandchildren. A family group sheet records one couple and their children in detail. This tool draws pedigree and descendant charts, and stores the details of each person like a group sheet.
Genealogy-friendly details
Dates are kept exactly as you type them ("abt. 1850", "bef. 12 Mar 1902"), so GEDCOM-style approximate dates survive export.
- Birth and death dates and places
- Notes for sources and stories
- GEDCOM 5.5.1 export
- Vector PDF for archival printing
Frequently asked questions
How many generations should a pedigree chart have?
4 generations fits comfortably on Letter/A4; 5 generations (31 people) prints best on Tabloid, A3 or a poster size.
Can I use approximate dates like 'abt 1880'?
Yes. Dates are free text, so 'abt 1880', 'bef 1900' or 'Spring 1912' are kept as written and exported to GEDCOM.
Related templates
4 Generation Family Tree Template
A ready 4-generation family tree: you, parents, grandparents and 8 great-grandparents. Edit online, add dates and places, print a PDF poster. Free.
Descendant Chart Maker
Make a descendant chart: a couple, all their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren with partners. Great for reunions. Edit online, print or share free.
Free Online GEDCOM Viewer
Open a GEDCOM (.ged) file in your browser as an interactive family tree. Edit, print a PDF, share a link, export again. The file is never uploaded.
Printable Family Tree Poster (PDF)
Turn your family tree into a printable poster PDF: Letter, A4, Tabloid, A3, 18×24, 24×36 and 36×48 inch. Vector quality, photos, four styles. Letter/A4 free.