How to Merge My Old Family Tree Maker Files into the New File

Introduction

Genealogy research often leads to multiple Family Tree Maker (FTM) files from different projects, backups, or collaborations. If you want to unify your data, understanding how to merge my old Family Tree Maker files into the new file is key to building a cohesive ancestry database. This streamlines access, reveals connections, and minimizes errors. In this custom 2025 guide for FTM enthusiasts, we’ll cover the process using built-in software features, backed by trusted insights for reliable results. Suitable for FTM 2019+ versions, merging helps avoid data loss while consolidating records.

Master this to turn disjointed files into one powerful resource. Use FTM 2024 for best compatibility and tools like enhanced matching.

Benefits of Merging My Old Family Tree Maker Files into the New File

Merging goes beyond simple combination—it’s smart data fusion to prevent issues. Files build up from lineage-specific work, GEDCOM imports, or old backups. Centralizing them eases report creation and sharing. Compacted files, optimized by removing unused data, merge cleaner without excess bulk.

FTM’s tool uses similarity scores for conflict resolution. Ideal for overlapping records in shared trees, but poor handling risks duplicates or lost info. Prep and cleanup are vital; it’s recommended for legacy upgrades, preserving media and sources while improving tree efficiency.

Preparation Before You Merge

Start strong with backups—FTM prompts during merge, but manually save to external or cloud storage. Load the host file (your main one) and check formats. For pre-2012 files, export to GEDCOM and import anew.

Compact files via File > Compact File to delete remnants and shrink size. Use Edit > Find Duplicate People to spot overlaps in old files. Update facts/sources to reduce conflicts. Close other apps for large trees to aid performance.

Verify media links in old files—fix broken ones. Prep takes 15-30 minutes, saving time overall.

Step-by-Step: How to Merge My Old Family Tree Maker Files into the New File

FTM’s Merge Wizard is user-friendly on Windows/Mac. Follow these:

Load Host: Open FTM with your primary file.
Start Merge: Select File > Merge; back up when prompted.
Pick Old File: Choose the .FTM/.FTMB file to add.
Set Options: Adjust thresholds (500-800 for balance). Choose merge matching or add-only. Manual fact review preserves details.
Check Conflicts: View matches; compare pedigrees, pick preferred data, alternate/discard others.
Finish: Click Merge; save as new to keep originals.

Works for FTM 2019-2024; Mac variations minor. For multiples, merge one-by-one from smallest.

Post-Merge Duplicate Handling and Compacting

Duplicates arise from variations. Use FTM tools:

Edit > Find Duplicate People lists by score.
Merge pairs: Checkbox facts/sources/media; 2012+ versions allow direct fact merges.
Consolidate sources in Sources workspace.

Re-compact via File > Compact File for optimization. Check kinship reports; fix unlinks via Person menu.

Advanced Tips for Successful Merging

Adjust thresholds per tree size. Test on copies. Keep discarded facts as alternates. For Ancestry syncs, use fresh GEDCOMs.

Merge places/facts post-process in dedicated tabs. Convert ancient versions via exports. Avoid pitfalls like ignored links or hasty reviews—batch for big trees.

Conclusion

Knowing how to merge my old Family Tree Maker files into the new file lets you craft a unified, accurate tree. FTM’s wizard, duplicate fixes, and compacting make it straightforward. Back up often; seek support for snags. This guide ensures your ancestry work creates a connected legacy. Start merging now!

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