How to Use the FamilySearch API MCP in Claude

Q: Can I view family trees via the FamilySearch API inside Claude Desktop?

Yes, you use the getpersonpedigree tool. It pulls the ancestry data into your conversation so you can analyze the lineage without leaving the app.

Bring your ancestry research directly into Claude Desktop with this MCP server.

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Connect FamilySearch API MCP to Claude Desktop

Create your Vinkius account to connect FamilySearch API to Claude Desktop and route execution through our secure gateway. The platform manages server hosting, runtime updates, and security layers. Configuration requires no manual server provisioning.

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Setup FamilySearch API with Claude Desktop

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Query the FamilySearch API from Claude Desktop

Use `search_persons` to pull specific individuals directly into your workspace. You'll get immediate access to tree data without flipping between browser tabs. This MCP server gives you a clean way to pipe genealogical records into your current Claude Desktop chat. It cuts out the manual copy-pasting of IDs and names.

Map pedigrees and details with your AI client

Call `get_person_pedigree` to visualize ancestral lines inside your chat window. It handles the heavy lifting of recursive data fetching for you. Once you have a target, `get_person_details` provides the granular info you need. It's the fastest way to confirm facts about a specific ancestor during your session.

Access historical records and memories in real time

Run `list_historical_collections` to see what archives are currently available. You can then use `get_person_memories` to retrieve stories and photos linked to your research subjects. Keep in mind that these calls consume quota. Always `check_api_status` first to ensure the endpoint is actually responding before you start a deep dive.

Setup guide

Set up FamilySearch API MCP in Claude Web or Desktop

1

Open Claude Settings

Go to claude.ai, click your profile icon, then navigate to Customize → Connectors.
2

Add Custom Connector

Click the "+" button and select Add custom connector. Paste your Vinkius endpoint URL: https://edge.vinkius.com/[YOUR_TOKEN_HERE]/mcp Replace [YOUR_TOKEN_HERE] with your token from cloud.vinkius.com. For OAuth-protected servers, expand Advanced settings to add credentials.
3

Start a conversation

Open a new chat. The FamilySearch API MCP tools are available immediately — no restart needed.

Endpoint URL

https://edge.vinkius.com/[YOUR_TOKEN_HERE]/mcp

No configuration file needed — paste the URL directly in the Claude web interface.

Available on Free (1 connector), Pro, Max, Team, and Enterprise plans.

Prerequisites

Claude Desktop installed (macOS or Windows)
Active Vinkius subscription with a valid endpoint token

1

Open Claude Desktop Settings

Click the menu icon at the top-left corner, go to Settings → Developer → Edit Config. This opens claude_desktop_config.json in your default text editor.
2

Paste the FamilySearch API MCP configuration

Copy the JSON snippet on the right into the mcpServers object. Replace [YOUR_TOKEN_HERE] with your endpoint token from cloud.vinkius.com.
3

Restart Claude Desktop

Close and reopen the application. Claude needs a full restart to load new MCPs — refreshing a conversation is not enough.
4

Verify the connection

Open a new conversation. Click the 🔌 icon at the bottom of the message input. You should see tools listed under familysearch-api-mcp.

json

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "familysearch-api-mcp": {
      "url": "https://edge.vinkius.com/[YOUR_TOKEN_HERE]/mcp"
    }
  }
}

Get your connection token →

Independent Platform Disclaimer: Vinkius is an independent platform and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, verified by, or otherwise authorized by FamilySearch API. All third-party trademarks, logos, and brand names are the property of their respective owners. Their use on this website is strictly for informational purposes to identify service compatibility and interoperability.

Why Choose Vinkius

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Common questions about FamilySearch API MCP in Claude Desktop

You simply type your query in the chat after connecting the server. The `search_persons` tool handles the lookup and returns the relevant records immediately.

Yes, you use the `get_person_pedigree` tool. It pulls the ancestry data into your conversation so you can analyze the lineage without leaving the app.

No, it doesn't store your personal tree data locally on your machine. All requests are ephemeral and handled directly through the secure MCP connection.

The server will return an error message indicating the service is unavailable. You should run `check_api_status` to confirm the current state of the API.

Your privacy is maintained because the server only touches the specific records you request. Data is transmitted over encrypted channels and never persists on our infrastructure.

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