Ahnentafel is the German word for family tree. In English we use the word Ahnentafel to describe a numbering system for writing a family tree (a pedigree, specifically) in a flat list. Here's how it works: the first person in the tree has an Ahnentafel number of 1. Then, we follow a simple formula. Multiply an Ahnentafel number by 2 and you get that person's father, multiply by 2 and add one to get that person's mother. For example, to follow your patriarchal line, just keep multiplying by 2: 1 (you) -> 2 (father) -> 4 (grandfather) -> 8 (great-grandfather) -> 16 (2x great-grandfather) -> etc. To follow your matriarchal line, multiply by 2 and add 1: 1 (you) -> 3 (mother) -> 7 (grandmother) -> 15 (great-grandmother) -> 31 (2x great-grandmother) -> etc.
There are a couple of neat effects when you visualize this on a timeline. The first is that couples are right next to each other and the second is that entire generations are bundled together. This is usually very clear to see on the timeline.
This print includes the Ahnentafel number before each name.
The four major colors represent your four grandparents' families. Choose from one of our color palettes, or bring us your own, custom color scheme for an additional charge. Custom colors is a separate product to add to your cart. Customize your tree even further with Family Tree Tags.
If you do not want to frame your print, we offer an optional 5 mil, 2-sided lamination that will offer long-lasting protection. This is a separate product you must add to your cart.
