Is it possible to merge another gedcom into the existing family tree, and if so, how is it done?
Using the research assistant one may find additional information at the IGI FamilySearch site. This information may then be available in the form of a downloadable gedcom file. This is particularly handy, as the records are properly sourced and it would be really useful to simply add the gedcom file to the existing family tree.
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Is it possible to merge another gedcom into the existing family tree, and if so, how is it done?
Yes, but not within PGV. PGV allows sophisticated merge capabilities, one record to one record: INDI<->INDI, FAM<->FAM, SOUR<->SOUR, OBJE<->OBJE, etc. However, as structured, it does not allow an 'add'.
Rather than go into detail here yet another time, use SF search of these forums for several dozen lengthy discussions on the options (and pitfalls) of merging GEDCOMS. Some swear by GENMERGE, but no program is perfect if there are lots of duplicates. If not, simply use anything to do an 'add' rather than 'merge' and then use PGV's features to eliminate (merge) the few duplicated INDI's.
BTW, does the data you wish to merge meet your GEDCOM criteria? Is it well-sourced, properly constructed and adequately detailed? Does it use the standard properly? Is the quality of the data evident from annotation (notes) and support (sources). Most are not, and I would not want to add shoddy work to my database for the expediency thereof. -Stephen
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Thanks for your response. I didn't see the "search" facility until after I've posted my question and it seems that it is not possible to retract a posting.
Acting on previous discussions in the forum, I've used GEDitCOM II to successfully merge two gedcom files.
You are quite correct, the original sources of the FamilySearch IGI records are not given, but at least their database is given as a source in the gedcom. My interest is mostly in the additional information that may be available, such as date of birth or parents, which may serve as a starting point for additional research.
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Glad you solved your issue.
Geditcom is sweet and John Nairn does a terrific job with his program. Well worth the minor cost if you run Macs, even if you use PGV or webtrees. Of course, you can make donations here as well to help encourage developers.
On the data, yes and no. I have found, from experience, that using a merge/add usually means I don't really apply the intensity to research the data as I should, and simply assume it to be valid. Often - its not - with date errors or conflicts or assumptions without a qualifier (ABT, EST, CAL). Finally, I've gotten in the habit of simply typing in what I need and can review, usually from a download in case the data disappears from the web (like much is capable of doing). -Stephen
If you would like to refer to this comment somewhere else in this project, copy and paste the following link:
Is it possible to merge another gedcom into the existing family tree, and if so, how is it done?
Using the research assistant one may find additional information at the IGI FamilySearch site. This information may then be available in the form of a downloadable gedcom file. This is particularly handy, as the records are properly sourced and it would be really useful to simply add the gedcom file to the existing family tree.
Yes, but not within PGV. PGV allows sophisticated merge capabilities, one record to one record: INDI<->INDI, FAM<->FAM, SOUR<->SOUR, OBJE<->OBJE, etc. However, as structured, it does not allow an 'add'.
Rather than go into detail here yet another time, use SF search of these forums for several dozen lengthy discussions on the options (and pitfalls) of merging GEDCOMS. Some swear by GENMERGE, but no program is perfect if there are lots of duplicates. If not, simply use anything to do an 'add' rather than 'merge' and then use PGV's features to eliminate (merge) the few duplicated INDI's.
BTW, does the data you wish to merge meet your GEDCOM criteria? Is it well-sourced, properly constructed and adequately detailed? Does it use the standard properly? Is the quality of the data evident from annotation (notes) and support (sources). Most are not, and I would not want to add shoddy work to my database for the expediency thereof.
-Stephen
Thanks for your response. I didn't see the "search" facility until after I've posted my question and it seems that it is not possible to retract a posting.
Acting on previous discussions in the forum, I've used GEDitCOM II to successfully merge two gedcom files.
You are quite correct, the original sources of the FamilySearch IGI records are not given, but at least their database is given as a source in the gedcom. My interest is mostly in the additional information that may be available, such as date of birth or parents, which may serve as a starting point for additional research.
Glad you solved your issue.
Geditcom is sweet and John Nairn does a terrific job with his program. Well worth the minor cost if you run Macs, even if you use PGV or webtrees. Of course, you can make donations here as well to help encourage developers.
On the data, yes and no. I have found, from experience, that using a merge/add usually means I don't really apply the intensity to research the data as I should, and simply assume it to be valid. Often - its not - with date errors or conflicts or assumptions without a qualifier (ABT, EST, CAL). Finally, I've gotten in the habit of simply typing in what I need and can review, usually from a download in case the data disappears from the web (like much is capable of doing).
-Stephen