Rewriting Ancestry: Diving into my Bonner DNA with iGENEA
Family name Bonner
Unraveling the unexpected and diverse European roots of the Bonner lineage, the iGENEA DNA test reshaped my understanding of ancestry, imparting a sense of nomadic heritage, and a wider cultural identity.
Taking a DNA test with iGENEA has always been an interesting concept floating in my mind, particularly because of my ancestral roots attached to the surname 'Bonner'. With a defined curiosity underlying my family history, I finally decided to give it a shot. The journey has been surprisingly insightful, revealing more about my heritage than I previously knew.
Growing up in a family that valued tradition, the name 'Bonner' had always been an emblem of pride. However, the history behind our lineage remained somewhat obscure, shrouded in half-told stories from elders and inconsistently recorded family history. The iGENEA DNA test offered a chance to unravel these mysteries and interpret the chapters of my lineage, and indeed, what it returned was surprising and changed my perspective about myself and my ancestors.
Arguably, the most unexpected discovery was the northern European roots linked to the Bonner surname. I was always under the impression that our lineage traced back to a small town in Scotland due to my great grandparents' narratives. The reality, however, was that my ancestors were not primarily Scottish, as I had believed, but had a broader, richer European heritage that extended into Scandinavia. This revelation painted a whole new canvas of cultural history and pride that I had barely recognized.
Furthermore, the DNA test also revealed that the Bonner ancestors were more nomadic than I had previously understood. Instead of being deeply rooted in one area, my forebears traveled considerably, spreading their influence and genes across regions as diverse as France and England in the west to Germany, Poland, and possibly even Hungary in the east. This adorning segment of history prompted a newfound respect for the fortitude of my ancestors.
To recognize that I am not only a product of Scotland but of diverse European cultures is baffling, yet it instills a proud sense of identity. The revelation of such diverse ancestry led me to re-evaluate my understanding of 'home' and 'heritage.' I now appreciate the value of diversity and the interconnection of cultures that went into making me who I am today. In sum, the iGENEA DNA test has offered a panoramic outlook on my family history, transforming the way I perceive the Bonner lineage.
H. Bonner