About
CemeaEditor, part of the OVS-Genealogy software suite, is a desktop application designed to simplify the process of recording, organizing, and distributing cemetery transcription data. Users can enter or import burial records while viewing photos of monuments, making data entry efficient and accurate. The software supports exporting transcriptions to multiple formats including SQLite databases, HTML web pages, and fully indexed print-ready books — including picture books with monument photos. The suite includes several companion tools: CemViewer (a free viewer for searching transcriptions), CemToHTM (converts records to web pages), CemToBOOK (produces indexed books), and CemToPictureBOOK (produces indexed books with monument images). A web-based version called WebCem generates template-driven, searchable cemetery transcription pages for websites. The OVS-Genealogy platform also includes ObitEditor for storing and indexing obituaries, WebObit for publishing obituaries online, and GenfoSearch, a free genealogy search tool integrating with Google, MSN, Yahoo, and dedicated genealogy sites. CemeaEditor is ideal for genealogy societies, historical preservation groups, cemetery trustees, and individual researchers looking to digitize and share cemetery records.
Key Features
- Cemetery Data Entry & Import: Enter or import burial records while simultaneously viewing photos of monuments for accurate transcription.
- Multi-Format Export: Export transcription data to SQLite databases, HTML web pages, and fully indexed print books including picture books.
- Free CemViewer: Distribute databases using the free CemViewer, allowing anyone to search and browse cemetery transcriptions without needing the full software.
- WebCem Integration: Publish template-driven, searchable cemetery transcription pages directly to a website with easy-to-use web scripts.
- Obituary Management: ObitEditor and WebObit companion tools allow storage, indexing, and online publishing of obituary records alongside cemetery data.
Use Cases
- A genealogy society digitizing and publishing local cemetery records for online public access.
- A cemetery administrator maintaining a searchable database of all burials and monument records.
- A historical preservation group creating indexed printed books of cemetery transcriptions with monument photographs.
- An individual genealogy researcher compiling family burial records and sharing them via the free CemViewer.
- A local historian building a website with searchable cemetery and obituary archives using WebCem and WebObit.
Pros
- Comprehensive Export Options: Supports multiple output formats — web pages, books, picture books, and databases — making it versatile for both digital and print distribution.
- Free Viewer for Distribution: The free CemViewer allows easy sharing of finished databases with other researchers without requiring them to purchase software.
- Backward Compatible: CemEditor3 is compatible with all previous versions, protecting investments in earlier data and workflows.
Cons
- Outdated Platform: The website and software appear to have not received major updates since 2016, raising concerns about ongoing support and compatibility with modern operating systems.
- Niche Use Case: Primarily useful for genealogy and cemetery administration, limiting its appeal to a narrow audience.
- No Cloud or Mobile Support: The software is desktop-based with no indicated cloud storage, mobile app, or real-time collaboration features.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CemeaEditor used for?
CemeaEditor (CemEditor) is used to enter, import, manage, and export cemetery transcription records. It is designed for genealogy researchers, cemetery caretakers, and administrators.
Can I share my cemetery database with others?
Yes. You can distribute your database using the free CemViewer, which allows recipients to search and browse records without purchasing the full software.
What export formats does CemeaEditor support?
CemeaEditor supports export to HTML web pages (via CemToHTM), fully indexed books (via CemToBOOK), picture books with monument photos (via CemToPictureBOOK), and SQLite databases for web-based scripts.
Is there a way to publish cemetery records online?
Yes. The WebCem add-on produces template-driven, searchable cemetery transcription pages for websites, and WebObit does the same for obituary records.
Is CemeaEditor compatible with previous versions?
Yes. CemEditor3 is fully compatible with all previous versions of the software, so existing data and workflows are preserved when upgrading.
