Gramps Web

Self-Hosted

Open-source self-hosted genealogy platform (alternative to Ancestry.com)

Overview

Gramps Web is a self-hosted genealogy solution that lets you build and manage family trees while retaining full control over your data. It supports GEDCOM imports/exports for easy migration from other tools, allows attaching photos/documents to records, and enables collaborative editing with role-based access. Deployable via Docker or Python, it syncs seamlessly with the desktop Gramps app, making it ideal for privacy-focused users.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  gramps_web:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: gramps-web
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

GEDCOM import/export for data migration
Media management (photos, documents, records)
Collaborative editing with role-based permissions

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Gramps Web hard to install?

Gramps Web is easy to set up using Docker containers—official docs provide step-by-step guides. For command-line users, it can also be installed via Python virtual environments. Most users find Docker deployment straightforward even without extensive technical knowledge.

? Is it a good alternative to Ancestry.com?

Yes! It offers core genealogy features like tree building and media management while keeping data private. It lacks Ancestry’s DNA matching but is perfect for users prioritizing self-hosted data control over third-party integrations.

? Is it completely free?

Absolutely! Gramps Web is open-source under the GPLv3 license—free to use, modify, and self-host with no hidden costs or subscriptions.

Top Alternatives

Ancestry.com Search Google

MyHeritage Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Free/Open Source

Category Genealogy

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Full control over sensitive family data
⊕ No subscription fees
⊕ Sync with desktop Gramps app

Cons

⊖ Requires basic server setup (Docker recommended)
⊖ Lacks advanced features like DNA matching
⊖ Steeper learning curve for new users