FTM File – What is .ftm file and how to open it?

File Format and Purpose:

FTM files are proprietary file formats used by Family Tree Maker for DOS, a discontinued genealogy software. They contain family tree data, including information on individuals, relationships, events, and sources. The files are typically saved with the extension .FTM and can be opened and edited in Family Tree Maker for DOS. FTM files are useful for storing and organizing large amounts of genealogical data, such as family pedigrees, birth and death records, and other historical documents.

Compatibility and Usage:

FTM files are compatible with Family Tree Maker for DOS and can also be viewed in some other genealogy software programs. However, due to the discontinuation of Family Tree Maker for DOS, FTM files may not be fully compatible with newer versions of modern genealogy software. To ensure the best compatibility, it is recommended to export FTM files to a more widely supported file format, such as GEDCOM (Genealogical Data Communication), which can be opened and read by a variety of genealogy software and online services.

What is an FTM File?

An FTM file is a proprietary data format used by Family Tree Maker, genealogy software developed by Ancestry.com. This file format stores the user’s family tree data, including individuals, relationships, events, and sources. FTM files are not universally compatible with other genealogy software, but they can be exported in a variety of formats for use with other applications.

How to Open an FTM File

To open an FTM file, you will need a compatible software program. The following programs can open FTM files:

• Family Tree Maker (latest version): The official software for creating, editing, and viewing FTM files.
• Family Tree Builder: A free genealogy software that can import FTM files.
• Brother’s Keeper: A powerful genealogy software that can also open FTM files.
• RootsMagic: A popular genealogy software with FTM file import capabilities.

Once you have a compatible software program installed, you can simply double-click on the FTM file to open it. The software will load the file and display the family tree data. You can view, edit, and print the data as needed.

FTM File Format Overview

FTM (Family Tree Maker for DOS File) is a proprietary file format specifically designed for storing and managing genealogical data. Developed by Ancestry.com, this format is primarily used by the Family Tree Maker software, a popular genealogy application. FTM files contain comprehensive information about individuals, families, events, and sources, providing a structured and organized method of documenting family history. The format supports a wide range of data types, including names, birthdates, marriage dates, locations, relationships, and notes, ensuring the preservation of detailed genealogical information.

Key Features of FTM Files

FTM files are characterized by several notable features that enhance their usefulness for genealogists. The format allows for the inclusion of multimedia content, such as images, audio recordings, and videos, which can provide a richer and more engaging representation of family history. Additionally, FTM files support the use of custom fields, allowing users to add specific information that may not be covered by the default fields. This flexibility enables genealogists to tailor the format to their specific research needs and capture a comprehensive account of their family history. Furthermore, FTM files can be exported to various other genealogy software applications, ensuring compatibility and memudahkan the sharing of data between different programs.

Other Extensions