In an article by The Eagle newspaper online, “Local Group Uses DNA in Genealogy”, a local genealogy group is using DNA to help trace their ancestors, but also their living cousins.
“The process starts when you join a surname organization, and they put you in touch with a testing lab,” Duncan said. “You get a testing kit and submit your DNA. The lab sends the results to the surname society, and they notify you of any matches.”…
“My DNA matched that of a guy in South Carolina,” Duncan said. “I’ll compare notes with him. He may have data on the Duncan family that I don’t have. If nothing else, it might help me know where to look.”
Duncan’s research has traced his family back to a male relative who lived in South Carolina in 1778. The DNA connection may help him find the father or brother of this ancestor.
While DNA testing is a great way to connect back in time with your ancestors, the fact that it can help you connect with the living is even more exciting. Who knows what research and finds they may have uncovered in their family history that will fill in the blanks with yours.
There are many surname DNA testing sites on the Internet. For USD$20-40, it’s a cheap way to potentially uncover a gold mine of family history.
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