Re: bridging the Dark Ages in Europe genealogically

On Oct 3, 2:02 am, "Diana Gale Matthiesen" <Dian...@xxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

There's no reason DNA testing can't work to support or debunk deep ancestries,
too.  A "Medieval Lineages" project would be a fascinating one to run.  

The main problem is that the farther back you go, the less likely
there will be an available 'reference' sample.

These lineage societies that have just been discussed would be the ideal basis
for such a project (or projects) by simply testing all their members -- and
henceforth requiring a test to gain membership.  I wonder how many of those
members would be willing to put their membership at risk by being tested?  Even
the D.A.R. has now embraced DNA testing.

With few exceptions, most lineage societies do not require the lineage
to be of a nature that is amenable to testing: male-line or female-
line. (Only Founders and Patriots immediately comes to mind as
requiring patrilineage, and I can think of none that require a pure
matrilineage.) For all others, DNA testing is not likely to address
the descent proposed (and that doesn't even mention the prohibitive
cost when added to the other joining fees).

taf
.

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