Findmypast launch new Private Messages feature to enable collaborative online research

• All users registered to Findmypast.co.uk now have the ability to contact those with common ancestors stored in their trees
• Once the recipient accepts their message request, users can communicate through Findmypast to share discoveries, family stories and work together to break down brick walls

In response to a recent surge in interest in online research, Findmypast has launched a new feature on their UK site to help users connect, correspond and collaborate with each other.

Now live on Findmypast.co.uk, “Private Messages” enables any user who receives a tree-to-tree hint to privately message the owner of that tree to ask questions, discuss their research, share discoveries, family stories, photos and even connect with distant living relatives. As long as the other user accepts their message request, the pair can then communicate through Findmypast.

Everyone with an account registered to Findmypast.co.uk gets an inbox and, to initiate contact, users first need either take out a free trial or move to one of Findmypast’s Starter, Plus or Pro subscription options.

Today’s announcement marks the latest in a series of substantial updates to Findmypast’s online family tree builder, following significant investment in the development of new tools and features.

Since Covid restrictions began, Findmypast has experienced substantial increases in both new users and the number of searches preformed on the site and have been working hand-in hand with their community members to ensure the best possible experience for both beginner and experienced family historians. Users asked and Findmypast listened with Private Messages being launched in response to hundreds of customer contacts and intensive user testing.

Findmypast is already home to a vibrant community that has doubled in size since lockdown. Members are now equipped with the ability to communicate directly with each other in a private setting, framed specifically around the context of their family history research while working together to knock down brick walls and enrich their research.

Findmypast product owner, German Munoz said: “Findmypast has so much to offer. Not just its world-leading collection of British and Irish records, but also an immense store of family trees. Many of these trees have been lovingly curated by researchers who have closely studied local places, people and events over many years. By collaborating with fellow researchers, especially those with common ancestors, we look forward to seeing Findmypast customers can make even more new discoveries as they benefit from the work already done by our passionate and knowledgeable community.”

At present, Private Messages is only available on Findmypast.co.uk but will arrive on Findmypast.com, Findmypast.com.au and Findmypast.ie in the near future.

To learn more about private messages, please visit the dedicated FAQ page: https://help.findmypast.co.uk/hc/en-us/sections/360003476897-Private-Messaging?