In a recent announcement by Ancestry, the landmark family tree software tool known as Family Tree Maker will be discontinued on December 31st, 2015 due to decreasing demand.

Ancestry will continue to support this software “at least through January 1, 2017” though. All features of the software, including TreeSync™, will continue to work until that time. See the official announcement at Ancestry to Retire Family Tree Maker Software.

We have used, promoted and supported this tool for at least 15 years or more. It’s been a great tool and we are really sorry to see it go.

The original announcement doesn’t mention what tool users should now use. But, based on the many updates Ancestry has made to their online tool at Ancestry.com, it’s appears that their online tool will be new solution when it comes to adding and updating family tree information at Ancestry.com.

Our website has many mentions of Family Tree Maker, and we will be updating this information to reflect this change. We still think it’s a great tool, and are hoping that someone will come along and purchase the rights to continue developing this great software. Stay Posted!

UPDATE: Ancestry.com has made an agreement with two companies, one which will continue to develop Family Tree Maker. The other company will provide access to Ancestry.com data through it software. For more information, check out the New Family Tree Maker Options.