What is MIME type "text/vnd.familysearch.gedcom"?

A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.

text/vnd.familysearch.gedcom is a MIME type that identifies text-based genealogy files. It tells software that the file’s content follows the GEDCOM standard, a format used to record family history data.
This type handles structured records like names, dates, and relationships, making data exchange easier.

The main purpose is to ensure genealogy software can import and export data without confusion. It supports the consistent sharing of family tree records.
Other uses include:

• Exchanging detailed family history between programs
• Maintaining compatibility across genealogy platforms
• Storing structured genealogical records reliably

Files using this MIME type are often seen with the file extension GED.
Learn more about MIME types on the MDN Web Docs.

Associated file extensions

.ged

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:

    Content-Type: text/vnd.familysearch.gedcom
  

HTML

In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:

    <a href="file.dat" type="text/vnd.familysearch.gedcom">Download file</a>
  

Server-side (Node.js)

Setting the Content-Type header in Node.js:

    const http = require('http');
    
    http.createServer((req, res) => {
      res.setHeader('Content-Type', 'text/vnd.familysearch.gedcom');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);
  

Associated file extensions

.ged