Experiencing iGENEA: Unraveling the Rowley Lineage through DNA Testing
Family name Rowley
Delving into my family history through iGENEA's DNA testing resulted in a riveting journey that extended far beyond a simple genealogical exploration. The testing procedures were impressively detailed, providing accurate insight into the genetic lineage associated with my surname, Rowley. Despite some unavoidable limitations, iGENEA's DNA testing services painted a vivid picture of my patrilineal ancestry.
My experience with iGENEA was pleasantly approachable, considering the complexity of DNA testing’s technical intricacies. iGENEA's main procedures are centered around two types of testing - the Autosomal DNA test and the Y-DNA / mt-DNA tests. The autosomal DNA test allows to uncover lineage from both sides of my family tree, while the Y-DNA or mt-DNA tests focus on ancestral line tracing from my father's side for Y-DNA test and mother's side for mt-DNA test.
In relation to the surname Rowley, I opted for the Y-DNA test. The technical side of the testing was fascinating yet comprehensible. The Y-DNA test focused on my patrilineal line and helped to discover distant relations sharing the surname Rowley. It investigates the non-recombining portion of the Y chromosome, thereby allowing me to trace an essentially unbroken line of male inheritance.
The test’s accuracy rate reportedly extends up to the 99th percentile because it examines a panel of 16 to 67 genetic markers. Yet, it’s worth mentioning that iGENEA couldn’t precisely date when our Rowley ancestor’s genetic mutations occurred - a common limitation among most genetic testing firms. However, the company provides toolkits for estimating possible timeframes, which helped give me a broader context.
The intricacy of genetic numbers and haplogroups were unfolded clearly by iGENEA. I now understand how different haplogroups stand as branches in the "family tree" of humankind and how they allow to trace back to common ancestors. My results showed that the Rowley line belongs to a common European haplogroup, aligning with the historical origins of the name. This experience truly deepened my understanding of the surname Rowley, making me appreciate the centuries-old journey that led to me.
Q. Rowley