Unexpected Ancestral Revelations: My DNA Journey with iGENEA
Family name Hodge
As a bearer of the Hodge name, I undertook the iGENEA DNA test to learn more about my genetic heritage. I wanted to validate the family tales and court records I had on my ancestors. The results astounded me, offering unexpected ancestry connections to Celtic tribes, Scandinavians, and Iberians, dramatically enriching my self-understanding.
Upon confirming to take the iGENEA DNA test, I had limited expectations. My main source of information about my Hodge lineage had always been a mix of family tales and limited court records. I ensured accuracy and punctiliousness while conducting the process. The results finally came, and they were nothing short of astounding.
As per family tales, my Hodge ancestors resided in England for generations, reinforcing my assumption of an English genetic heritage. However, the iGENEA DNA test results gave a whole new perspective. Fifty-two percent of my DNA was matched with historic Celtic groups. The Celtic tribes, as history tells us, dominated areas, including present-day Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. This startling revelation immediately challenged my long-held view about my predominately English lineage.
Further analysis of the results indicated that about thirty percent of my DNA was traced back to Scandinavia. This Scandinavian connection was entirely unexpected. I began to hypothesize: Could the Hodges have been Viking raiders, who made the British Isles their home in the early medieval period? How did they move, how did they adapt, how did they survive? The thought was incredible and opened up fresh avenues to delve deeper into my ancestral history.
The last eighteen percent of my DNA was linked to Iberian roots, throwing light on another surprising aspect of my Hodge lineage that was unheard of until now. This transformed my understanding of my lineage into a captivating family saga that spanned continents and crossed seas.
The iGENEA DNA test was a revelation, presenting links to societies and heritages I never imagined possible for my Hodge ancestors. The mental images I created of them as local dwellers has changed to explorers, voyagers, and settlers shaping civilization through their journey. This realization has enhanced my sense of identification with them, providing me with something to cherish and pass on to forthcoming generations.
K. Hodge