If you’ve been working with Family Tree Maker for many years, you may have some older family tree files created with earlier versions of the software. However, Family Tree Maker versions from 2008 through 2024 no longer support some of these older file types directly. This can make it difficult to open or import your valuable genealogical data into the latest software. In this blog, we’ll explain how to import old or unsupported files into Family Tree Maker 2008-2024 for Windows, so you can continue.
Which File Types Are Unsupported in FTM 2008-2024?
Family Tree Maker 2008-2024 doesn’t directly import some legacy file types. Those are:
- .FTW and .FBK files that were prepared in Family Tree Maker versions 1 through 4
- .FBC files
- .AFT files
- .GED files created before version 5.5
Important: Files from Family Tree Maker versions 5 through 16 (.FTW or .FBK) can be imported directly into versions 2008-2024 without conversion.
How to Convert Old Files to a Supported Format?
To access these older files with the new FTM software, you have to first convert them to a compatible format. The most convenient way to do that is to use the Family Tree Maker 2005 Starter Edition — a free trial software good for 14 days.
Step 1: Download and Install Family Tree Maker 2005 Starter Edition
- You can download the 14-day free trial of Family Tree Maker 2005 Starter Edition on the official site.
- We suggest you install it only when you have your new Family Tree Maker software in hand and are ready to convert your files.
Step 2: Backup Your Current Files
- Before you begin the conversion, make a copy of your existing family tree files. This precaution will protect your data in case anything goes wrong during the process.
Converting .FTW Files
- Launch Family Tree Maker 2005 Starter Edition.
- Click Open Existing, or press Ctrl+O, or go to File and click Open.
- Find where your .FTW file is and open it. The file will open normally, and the program will update it to the 2005 version automatically.
- Close Family Tree Maker 2005 Starter Edition. Your file is ready to be imported into Family Tree Maker 2008-2024.
- If you no longer need the Starter Edition, you can uninstall it.
Converting .FBK, .FBC, .AFT, and Older .GED Files
- Open Family Tree Maker 2005 Starter Edition.
- Click Open Existing, or use Open in the File menu.
- Locate the file you wish to convert and open it.
- A New Family File window will pop up prompting you to save the converted file. Select a new name that distinguishes this one from the others and click Save.
- After your tree has opened in the program window, shut down Family Tree Maker 2005 Starter Edition.
- Your file is now converted and ready to import into Family Tree Maker 2008-2024.
Conclusion
Working with old and unsupported Family Tree Maker files might seem tricky, but using the 2005 Starter Edition makes it easy to convert them. This way, you can keep all your family history safe and use it in the latest FTM versions. Just remember to back up your files before starting, and uninstall the Starter Edition once you’re done. By following these easy steps, you’ll be able to open and use even your oldest family trees in Family Tree Maker 2008–2024.
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