Frequently Asked Questions

We will add to this page as we go. - Since we are just starting out, we don't really have any Frequently Asked Questions! Anyhow, here are some questions that might come up.

In the mean time, check out these helpful Frequently Asked Question pages:

1. What is DNA?

DNA or DeoxyriboNucleic Acid is the molecule sometimes known as the blueprint of life. It contains the genetic code that exists in each cell of our bodies and is found throughout nature in living things. Genealogists can compare certain sequences or markers on specific chromosomes between living individuals in hopes of finding common ancestors.

2. How does DNA testing work?

The DNA test is typically a cheek swab, which collects tissue cells.  The laboratory examines these cells and uses standardized protocols to count the number of repeats of genetic patterns at standardized locations on the DNA helix.  A DNA result is a set of repeats (numbers) at particular addresses (markers).  By comparing the numbers at the markers, we can determine if a man shares a common ancestor with a second sample.  Typically, this is recorded as the number of exact matches and the total number of markers, i.e.: 12/12, 23/25 33/37, etc.  Generally, for a greater number of markers, there is a higher reliability and for a closer the match in numbers, there is a closer relationship.

3. How can DNA testing help genealogy?

For purposes of surname genealogy studies, DNA refers to the 23rd chromosome pair. Females have two x chromosomes, while males have one x and one y chromosome. The y chromosome is passed from father to son and is usually identical from father to son. Occasionally, there is a mutation. Over 1000s of years, these mutations have resulted in distinctive DNA profiles for different families. These differences are the focus of DNA testing in genealogy, often called yDNA.

4. I'm new to genealogy, how do I get started?

Start by asking family members for information on your family. Someone may have already compiled a portion or even a significant amount of your family. There may be a family bible with births, marriages & deaths. Older family members may recall information that you can compile. As a first step, prepare a chart showing your parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, etc., reaching back as far as you can find information. Begin collecting the following information as a minimum: full name, date and place of birth, marriage and death. Add to your collection of information as you learn more. You can find a good tutorial on Basic Genealogy here.

5. I am a female, can I join the project?

Males provide the paternal line Y-chromosome DNA test results, which females don't have. If the males in the family are not into genealogy, then a female genealogist can sponsor a male member of her family such as a brother, father, uncle, grandfather, or great-uncle as long as he is willing to be the proxy for the family to provide the DNA sample.

6. When I post my pedigree to the forums, will anyone be able to view it?

Yes. All posts in the forums are visible to any web browser. If you want your pedigree kept private from the public, use the contact us page to send it in. Only use the format as described in the forums. By submitting your pedigree via the "Contact Us" page, your pedigree will only be available to other project participants. However, the forums do make it easier for interested parties to share info.

7. What if my results yeild something that indicates a family member was adopted?

Non-paternity results do occur and they may be obvious through DNA testing when the result is being compared in a well-documented family. Where infidelities or adoptions have long been rumored and now proven, there can be some satisfaction. Where an infidelity or adoption occurred in a well-documented family, identifying it helps in clarifying the DNA profile of descendants. Where the non-paternity event occurs in a family without extensive documentation, it can be very disruptive and prevent the participant from obtaining matches within the surname.

8. Will I be able to discontinue participation in the DNA Project at some later time?

Yes. Just like an email list, if you decide that you want to take your results and other info down from the site, you can ask that it be deleted from the Database.