Family histories can be lost within just a few generations

Genealogy By Genetics - Why Test?      by Stan St. Clair

When I first started on the journey in search of my ancestry many years ago, the task was a tedious one which took a lot of effort and research. I found myself rambling through records in court houses, libraries, and cemeteries, and talking with older family members, trying to get the stories straight. While all of these were done as a fond labor of love, it took much time, which was not a commodity which was in abundance. In addition, many lines were difficult to trace, and almost impossible to be certain that my conclusions were correct.

While much of this is still necessary today, the study of genealogy has come a long way. Many census, marriage, and other records are now available on line, and much more work has been done by other researchers. Still, a serious genealogist always seeks for documentation.

Even with all of this, a paper trail is never fool-proof. DNA testing has made it possible to show ties to common ancestry even many generations back. Y DNA, which is passed down from father to son, is now being used in surname studies to link those with common ancestry together genetically. When Steve and I first started our discussion of getting our own testing done, we were only searching for personal answers to our common ancestry. After doing the tests, we realized that little had been done on a broad scope to link Sinclairs worldwide to our common past. We saw this as a much needed avenue to explore. As a Commissioner for Clan Sinclair Association, U. S. A. over the past few years, and a very active member of the Sinclair Discussion List and the Genealogy Forum, I have met many interesting individuals living in all parts of the globe who are genuinely searching for answers to our family history. The Sinclair/ St. Clair family is an old, proud and noble clan with a remarkable history. We are now making new history by offering tests to male Sinclairs/ St. Clairs at reduced rates through our association with World Families and Family Tree Genealogy, the largest organization of its type in the world.

We recommend the 37 marker test in order to get the best picture of your true DNA signature. At a minimum, 25 markers are crucial to the study. Over the years the markers passed down undergo minor mutations, or changes, while keeping a general similarity in its haplotype. Some markers are subject to change earlier than others. Having a certain marker changed can show ties to family in a certain area, who usually has had a similar mutation. By doing this test, you can also show ties to other lines which can give a clearer picture of your true origins.

We appreciate your interest, and hope you will choose to join us on this scientific quest for our common past.

Thank you,

Stan St. Clair, Co-Founder, St. Clair Research



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