Discovering My Celtic Ancestry - An Intriguing Journey with iGENEA DNA Analysis
Family name Durham
The pursuit of my ancestral roots before the iGENEA DNA test was akin to trying to piece together a jigsaw without having the full picture. Discovering the Celtic origins and historical migratory patterns inscribed in my family's name, 'Durham', has been a revelation that simultaneously intrigued, thrilled, and overwhelmed me.
Having always been fascinated by my heritage and the origin of my family name 'Durham', I made a decision to dive deeper into the enigma surrounding it by taking the iGENEA DNA test. iGENEA's reputation for providing precise and detailed genetics-based ancestry information bolstered my choice; their promise to unveil the journey of my forefathers and the truths embroidered in my DNA was tantalising.
The test kit arrived within days and the procedure was simple - a quick swab from the inside of my cheek was all that was required. Upon sending it back, I awaited my results with bated breath.
When I received my DNA analysis report, it was certainly overwhelming. The sheer depth and breadth of information about my paternal lineage unlocked centuries of familial narrative, that had been obscured by time. The reports revealed that my surname 'Durham' was linked to the Celts whose settlements were concentrated in Britain and a considerable part of Europe. This connection traced back to Hampshire in South East England which was a potent revelation for me.
Expanding further on my 'Durham' lineage, it appears that my forebears were part of this wave of Celtic migration, possibly driven by trading opportunities or sociopolitical upheavals of the time. My ancestors ultimately settled in the Durham region, adopting the place name as their family surname, a tradition that was not uncommon in those times.
What enthralled me about the analysis was the revelation of a genetic marker that was a trademark of Celtic lineage, placing my roots firmly in the banks of Celtic heritage. The shared genetic trait of R1b haplogroup, common amongst Celtic lineages, galvanised my DNA’s significant association with this ancient group.
The iGENEA DNA analysis allowed me to discover, comprehend, and appreciate the nuanced narrative of my Durham heritage, which was interspersed with elements of migration, survival, and community acclimation. It transformed what was merely a familial name into a poignant narrative filled with rich historical and cultural significance.
The DNA test has also sparked in me, a keener interest in historical research related to my Celtic ancestors; their traditions, their language, their struggles, and triumphs. The understanding of my own roots has not only augmented my identity but has also reignited my curiosity about the ancient world that sculpted the Durham lineage.
U. Durham