Discovering the Unexpected: A Journey Through My Reitz Lineage with the iGENEA DNA Test
Family name Reitz
I embarked on my iGENEA DNA test journey hoping to simply confirm my German roots but was presented with an array of surprising revelations. The test revealed not only Celtic roots but also connections to Western Asia, and an unexpected Jewish lineage, turning the Reitz family history into a captivating genealogical treasure hunt.
Going into my iGENEA DNA test, I felt pretty sure I knew the story of my surname, Reitz. Good old German roots, possibly mingled with a bit of Eastern European lineage. Hint of Austrian, thanks to some family lore. However, the reality I discovered was far more intriguing.
An initial surprise was the confirmation of my direct lineage to the Celts, an ancient European group known for their artistic accomplishments and war prowess. The Celts? Yes, the DNA markers present in my genetic makeup correlated directly with this group's migration pattern. It was enthralling to learn that my ancestors might have partaken in ancient historical events that I only read about in textbooks.
The biggest shock, however, came when I discovered a connection way out in Western Asia. This connection traced back around 15,000 to 20,000 years, linking my family to the region that is now Iran. To think that some distant Reitz ancestor had migrated from Asia to Celtic Europe and finally made their way to Germany was mind-bogglingly exciting.
One more curveball was the confirmation of Jewish ancestry in the Reitz lineage. It's not unusual for German families to have Jewish roots; however, given that none of my immediate relatives knew of it, I found it remarkably important for understanding my heritage. It also provided a poignant reminder of the history experienced by Jews in Europe and the diaspora they endured.
Overall, the iGENEA DNA test has truly opened my eyes. The name 'Reitz' carries a broader meaning for me now, encompassing the human story of movement, integration, and survival. Rather than just another German surname, it’s a symbol of a rich and colorful tapestry of ancestors, each contributing to the person I am today.
C. Reitz