Familysearch MCP Server

Javascript SDK for FamilySearch

Local serverstdio

What is the Familysearch MCP server?

Most file and storage access work still happens through a UI a human drives. Familysearch MCP server moves it into the conversation instead. Javascript SDK for FamilySearch.

The short version

This JavaScript SDK is a high-level JavaScript wrapper around the FamilySearch REST API.

  • Wrapped REST API Calls —
  • Well Documented —
  • Popup Authentication —
  • Automatic Authentication —
  • Token Storage —
  • Throttle Handling —

Getting it running

Installation goes through your MCP client rather than a global install: point it at familysearch-javascript-sdk on npm and it is fetched when the client starts. The copy-paste blocks for Claude Desktop, Claude Code and Cursor are further down this page.

The tools it exposes

The server publishes 2 tools. What each one is for:

  • Cross — platform**
  • Object — oriented**

Things to watch

  • It runs with your machine's permissions. That is convenient and also the reason to think about what you point it at before you approve a tool call.
  • Keep per-call confirmation enabled while you learn its behaviour; it is the cheapest safeguard you have.

How it compares

Among the file and storage access options, the useful question is rarely "what can it do" but "what does it cost you to run" — permissions, credentials, and how much of your context its toolset consumes. Familysearch's toolset — Cross, Object — is a fair guide to whether it matches your workflow. It is maintained by familysearch; worth a glance at recent repository activity before you build anything load-bearing on it.

This entry was verified against Familysearch's own documentation before publication; SyncDev keeps the directory reviewed rather than auto-generated.

Available tools

ToolWhat it does
Crossplatform**
Objectoriented**

How to install the Familysearch MCP server

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "familysearch": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "familysearch-javascript-sdk"]
    }
  }
}

Add to claude_desktop_config.json, then restart Claude Desktop.

Example prompts to try

  • Use Familysearch to Cross.
  • Use Familysearch to Object.

Frequently asked questions

It connects Familysearch to MCP-compatible AI assistants such as Claude and Cursor, exposing 2 tools (Cross, Object) that the assistant can call on your behalf. Instead of copying data back and forth by hand, the assistant works with Familysearch directly.