To DNA or not to DNA?

Are you thinking about doing a DNA test or have you done one and have been told your estimated ethnicity. Is that all there is?

A DNA test can give you more insight into your family genealogy and origins. Combine what you learn from your DNA by accessing over 100 million family trees and 30 billion records on Ancestry and other family search platforms.

A simple saliva test can show you the countries you’re from and may also pinpoint specific regions within them – giving you insightful geographic detail about your history.

From your test results you can start building your family tree or confirm branches already there.

A DNA test will usually indicate your ethnicity mix, that is, the countries, cities and towns that your ancestors called home. While interesting, such information is not all that helpful in building your family history without further detailed research, and genealogy groups can help you in this endeavour

DNA processors might also provide suggestions of new ancestors based on the connections in your DNA. This will enable you to find new living relatives around the world, and discover your shared family history. However, without careful verification, such research can lead to incorrect conclusions. Once again, genealogical groups are a useful resource.

Since the advent of DNA, millions of people have uncovered something new. You could too. You might even discover new living relatives.

The Phillip Island and District Genealogical Society will be hosting a session on DNA on Saturday October 1 with experienced guest DNA presenter Pam Harrison from Wonthaggi. Come along to get answers to all your questions and to find out how you can use the test results to advance your family history search, maybe unravel a mystery, or at least confirm your suspicions.

Join the DNA session on Saturday October 1, starting at 2pm, at 56 Chapel Street. Cowes.

Afternoon tea will be provided. Members free, visitors $5. Please RSVP by September 29 to piadgs@gmail.com.