Actually, DNA is proving lots of suppositions wrong.  In one branch of my
family, two ladies have totally dominated the RootsWeb and Genforum boards
and the mailing list for the surname. They knew all about this family from
about 1670 in Virginia.  Lots of it just didn't ring true to me and some
others.  Well, lo and behold, DNA is proving that some of their supposed
brothers were not at all related...not even the same haplotype!  So it is a
double-edged sword for sure. 

-----Original Message-----
From: Research and writing about Virginia genealogy and family history.
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of jvford5
Sent: Thursday, April 24, 2008 11:14 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: DNA Testing Article with Questions...

Thanks for your reply Bill, let me see if I understand you correctly. You
stated that DNA testing gives you over 99% odds that somewhere within 16
generations back that you share at least one male relationship with the
group of Davidsons in Goochland County (and James City before
that) but it doesn't tell you who they are or their relation to your family
line, only that they are in there somewhere, right? 

I'm glad that you were so satisfied with the results of your DNA testing and
I'm trying to understand how it works. Does the DNA testing stand alone in
making conclusions or is it combined with proofs of the standard nature as
in written records? I would think that the two methods of proofs should in
almost all cases compliment each other. Or in cases where there are no
written proofs DNA can fill in the blanks to an extent such as yours in at
least letting you have proof of 'some' connection.

I had to laugh when you wrote...I sometimes think that some "genealogists"
are simply afraid that the results will prove that much of what they have
believed (and boldly stated) for the last 30 years is wrong....but the
truth, however painful, is all any of us should really want.....That is so
true Bill !! Not just with DNA proofs but with written records also. Some
people when confronted with proofs contrary towards their work build their
own brick wall of denial and will consider you a history revisionist. It's a
shame because we should all be on the same page in seeking the truth.

Thanks again and God Bless, Vicki Ford

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