Understanding my Gabbard Lineage: A Personal Account of the iGENEA DNA Test
Family name Gabbard
As an individual interested in tracing back my origins, I recently took the iGENEA DNA test. This test, with its blend of autosomal DNA, Y-DNA, and mDNA analysis methodologies, deepened my understanding of my surname, Gabbard. I am keen to shed light on technical aspects and accuracy of the test while linking it with the history associated with this surname.
As an individual who recently received their genetic results from iGENEA DNA test, I feel called to share my thoughts and findings on its technical aspects and accuracy. iGENEA uses a class-leading blend of autosomal DNA, Y-DNA, and mDNA testing methodologies to glean insights into your genetic ancestry, making it a comprehensive test for both your maternal and paternal lines. From its swift processing times to the depth of historical and geographic information provided, I found the experience to be very enlightening.
According to the results, the surname Gabbard, believed to be from Anglo-Saxon origins, provided fascinating insights into my family's historical journey. The test was successful in pinpointing specific geographic regions related to my lineage, such as Central Europe and the British Isles. The autosomal DNA test provided a percentage breakdown of my genetic makeup, revealing a mix from several European regions that lined up with my family's oral history.
As for the accuracy, I was impressed. iGENEA tests a wide range of genetic markers (STR and SNP) compared to many other tests out there. Testing more markers generally leads to more precise results, and this has been the case with my Gabbard lineage. The results were detailed and matched closely with the documented family history that I have. It should be noted that no DNA test can provide 100% accuracy due to the complex nature of genetic inheritance and the limitations of current testing technology, but I felt that iGENEA gave a thorough and credible assessment.
Analyzing my Y-DNA and mDNA gave me a deeper understanding of my paternal and maternal lines, respectively. Through my X-chromosome (inherited from my mother), the test identified connections to the British Isles, which was consistent with the historical documentation of the Gabbard name. It adds genetic proof to our family's long-standing belief: that we were originally from that region.
The comprehensive nature of the data, supported by historical context, gave me a profound connection with the surname 'Gabbard' and the generations that came before me. I am left with a greater appreciation for my lineage and the journey my ancestors embarked on, finally understanding the roots beneath the surname Gabbard.
W. Gabbard