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How to Put Census Records in a Family Tree Maker

Through the census, you can trace your families' lives---where they lived, who lived with them, occupations and and other vital statistics. Census records are great sources to keep copies of as you trace your family tree. You can save the information from the census in your Family Tree Maker by either writing the text as a Note or by inserting an image of the census record as a media file. A combination of both is wise as well.

Things You'll Need

Family Tree Maker software

Instructions

Including the Census as a Media File
- 1
  Obtain an image of a relevant census record. You can do this through a paid subscription site such as Ancestry.com or you can obtain a paper version and scan it in yourself. Either way, save the image to your hard drive.
- 2
  Open Family Tree Maker. Click on "Media" located at the top of the page.
- 3
  Click on "Add" at the right of the screen. This opens a box from which you can choose the image you wish to add. Select that image, and click "Open." This opens a dialog box titled "Copy to Media Folder." Select "Copy File" and click "OK."
Including the Census Information as Text
- 4
  Select the person for whom you wish to add information.
- 5
  Click the Notes icon on the right side. Choose between "Person Note" or "Research Note." This will open a text box.
- 6
  Type in your information. Be sure to include your source information.
- 7
  Click "OK." This will save your notes to that person.
Follow the Leaf
- 8
  Click on the "Leaf" to the right of your ancestor's name.
- 9
  Scroll down and select the appropriate source. It will highlight your choice and show it in the bottom panel on the right. On the left bottom panel will be you ancestor.
- 10
  Click "Merge" on the bottom right side. This will open a "Web Merge Wizard" window.
- 11
  Select the facts you wish to include with your person. Click "Next" to advance to the next person included. Click "Merge Now." The individuals will merge. A "Success" box will open. Click "OK."

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