Genealogical numbering systems are essential tools for organizing and presenting family tree data in a clear and systematic manner. These systems provide a consistent method to assign identifiers to individuals in a family tree, making it easier to trace ancestry and descendants. This article explores several genealogical numbering systems, highlighting their unique features and providing examples of how each system works.
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Ascending Numbering Systems
Ahnentafel
The Ahnentafel, German for "ancestor table," is a widely used ascending genealogical numbering system. It begins with a focal person, often referred to as the proband, and assigns numbers to their ancestors. The proband is assigned the number 1, the father is 2, the mother is 3, and so on. The father's number is always double that of the child, while the mother's number is the father's number plus one. [1] [2]
Example:
- Proband: 1
- Father: 2
- Mother: 3
- Paternal Grandfather: 4
- Paternal Grandmother: 5
- Maternal Grandfather: 6
- Maternal Grandmother: 7
Sosa-Stradonitz
The Sosa-Stradonitz system, also known as the Kekulé system, is similar to the Ahnentafel. It was popularized by Spanish genealogist Jerónimo de Sosa and later refined by Stephan Kekulé von Stradonitz. This system uses the same numbering method as the Ahnentafel, making it interchangeable in practice.
Descending Numbering Systems
Register System
The Register System is a descending numbering method developed for the New England Historical and Genealogical Register. It uses a combination of Roman and Arabic numerals to organize generations. Each generation is grouped together, and within each generation, individuals are numbered sequentially.[1] [2]
Example:
- Generation One
- Progenitor
- Generation Two
- 2. i. Child
- ii. Child (no progeny)
- iii. Child (no progeny)
- iv. Child
- 2. i. Child
NGSQ System
The NGSQ (National Genealogical Society Quarterly) System is similar to the Register System but assigns a number to every child, regardless of whether they have descendants. This approach ensures that each individual is consistently numbered. [1] [2]
Example:
- Generation One
- 1 Progenitor
- Generation Two
- 2 i. Child
- 3 ii. Child (no progeny)
- 4 iii. Child (no progeny)
- 5 iv. Child
Henry System
The Henry System is another descending method created by Reginald Buchanan Henry. It assigns a digit for each successive generation, starting from an arbitrary progenitor. The system is flexible, allowing for the continuation of numbering across generations using a combination of numbers and letters when there are more than nine children.[1] [2]
Example:
- Progenitor
- First Child
- Second Child
- First Grandchild
- Second Grandchild
d'Aboville System
The d'Aboville System, developed by Jacques d'Aboville, is similar to the Henry System but uses periods to separate generations. This format is widely used in France and provides a clear visual distinction between generations.[1] [2]
Example:
- 1 Progenitor
- 1.1 Child
- 1.1.1 Grandchild
- 1.1.2 Grandchild
- 1.2 Child
- 1.1 Child
Meurgey de Tupigny System
This system, designed by Jacques Meurgey de Tupigny, uses Roman numerals for generations and Arabic numerals for birth order within each generation. It is often used in conjunction with pedigree charts. [2]
Example:
- I Progenitor
- II-1 First Child
- III-1 First Grandchild
- III-2 Second Grandchild
- II-2 Second Child
- II-1 First Child
de Villiers/Pama System
Developed by Christoffel Coetzee de Villiers and refined by Dr. Cornelis Pama, this system assigns letters to generations and numbers to children within each generation. It is commonly used in South Africa. [2]
Example:
- a Progenitor
- b1 First Child
- c1 First Grandchild
- c2 Second Grandchild
- b2 Second Child
- b1 First Child
Hybrid and Other Systems
Simple Numbering
Simple numbering is a straightforward method where each individual is assigned a number, usually starting from the progenitor. This system is easy to follow but lacks the structural depth of other systems.
Modified Register and NGSQ Breadcrumbs
The Modified Register system, also known as the Record System, is a variation of the Register System. It assigns numbers only to descendants who have known progeny. The NGSQ Breadcrumbs format identifies the generation number in superscript, providing a visual "breadcrumb" trail to the progenitor. [2]
Example:
- David⁴ Johnson; Mary³; Bob² Jones; Alice¹ Smith
Conclusion
Genealogical numbering systems are invaluable for maintaining clarity and consistency in family trees. Whether organizing ancestors or descendants, these systems facilitate the study and presentation of genealogical data. By understanding and applying these methods, genealogists can effectively trace and document family histories across generations.
See also
Explore more about Civil records and Numbering systems
- Working with German vital records you find on MyHeritage at Legacy Tree Webinars
- Amazing ways to use Death records for family research at MyHeritage Blog
- Marriage records: Everything you need to know at MyHeritage Blog
- Researching Your German Ancestors, webinar by Kory Meyerink on Legacy Family Tree Webinar
- Genealogical Numbering Systems on Gramps Project
- Numbering Systems for genealogy ond Tree and Leaf
- Kekulé Numbering System on Larimer County genealogical society
- Genealogical numbering systems in Genealogy Detective