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DNA Genetics test for Genealogy - anyone done it?

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Matthew

Matthew Report 24 Jan 2007 10:44

Hi, I was just reading an old thread from 2004 about using DNA tests to track the origins and movements of your ancestors. Has anyone actually taken one of these tests and was the information of any use? Thanks. Matt

Milly** in Australia**

Milly** in Australia** Report 24 Jan 2007 12:51

My Husband has just sent one off for his family as he is the last direct male decendant on his fathers side still alive. It will take a while before we know the results, but will try and remember to put something on site about it when we do. Milly

Janet 693215

Janet 693215 Report 24 Jan 2007 13:58

I'm just about to. I'm going to go for the Euro DNA because it's my Father's side that intrigues me. I'm hoping it will work out cheaper than usual at the moment because of the $ exchange rate.

An Olde Crone

An Olde Crone Report 24 Jan 2007 14:42

Matthew I used to think these tests were too vague to be of any practical use. However, after watching a recent TV programme, it seems that they can sometimes pin down things to a given generation. For instance, on the TV programme I mentioned, one man had genetic input from Poland, say (I can't remember which country, exactly) The DNA expert said 'you should look for an event on your father's side, within the last five generations'. Apart from that instance, the figures were pretty meaningless - 40% of your DNA originated in Northern Europe, 20% in East Asia and 40% in Europe - doesnt help you to trace your family tree, because you don't know WHEN all those genes met up in one person! OC

Matthew

Matthew Report 24 Jan 2007 15:10

Thanks for your replies. OC: I agree that DNA testing wouldn't usually be much use for pinning down detailed information about specific generations (except in some cases, like your example). However, I do think that it would be useful background/supporting information to complement genealogy research. My brickwall occurs around 1812 - the date my ggg-grandfather was born in Ireland. I don't expect to ever learn much about his parents in any detail, but I would be interested to learn how long my ancestors had lived in Ireland, if they came from another part of Europe, etc - which I believe DNA tests could show. Milly / Janet: I would be very interested to have your comments / advice once you have received the data from your tests. Thanks. Matt