An Unveiling Journey Through DNA: Discovering the Origins and History of My Surname “Kirschbaum”
Family name Kirschbaum
Ever been curious about your ancestral roots? I was too, which led me to take a DNA analysis test with iGENEA. Through this enlightening journey, I unlocked the mysteries behind my German-Jewish family name "Kirschbaum". The discovery of my roots provided me with a deeper understanding of my identity and taken me back to my family's historical past.
My curiosity in discovering my ancestral roots led me to undertake the DNA analysis test hosted by iGENEA. It was a particularly exhilarating moment when my longing to explore the depths of my heritage, especially regarding my family name "Kirschbaum", began to bear fruit. The experience was a thoughtful blend of intrigue and enlightenment, giving me a much deeper understanding of my lineage.
Visiting the iGENEA site, I was greeted with a meticulously streamlined process. The process started with obtaining a DNA testing kit sent via mail, a simple scrape on the inside of the cheek did the trick and I returned it with my samples. The wait was laced with excitement and the anticipation only grew as I waited for my results.
The revelation of the results was like entering a time machine, whisking me back through ages of my ancestors' journey. For years, I bore the name Kirschbaum, which carries Germanic origins, indicating 'cherry tree'. The Kirschbaum lineage, as confirmed through the DNA analysis, derived from the Ashkenazi Jewish community, who lived in the regions of Germany and Eastern Europe centuries ago.
The test corroborated the stories passed down from earlier generations in my family. We were a part of the large community of Ashkenazi Jews in Germany, functioning as traders and farmers. Curiously, my surname, symbolizing cherry tree, also represented the cherry orchards our ancestors tended and it was fascinating to see how trade and agriculture intertwined in shaping our familial identity.
The iGENEA DNA analysis further revealed that our family migrated during periods of socio-political unrest, primarily during the Second World War. This re-instated remembrances of heart-rending tales narrated by my grandparents about the struggles they faced during the turbulent times.
Overall, the DNA analysis expanded my understanding of the origins and history of my family name Kirschbaum. It enumerated my ancestral journey, shedding light on the historical and cultural footprints my ancestors left behind.
The test led me to my origins and gave me the opportunity to bask in my rich culture and history, providing me with the bedrock of my identity. My understanding and appreciation of my roots have grown, and I am grateful to iGENEA for offering such a comprehensive and enlightening experience. It serves as a reminder that I carry the legacy and the spirit of generations long past with me, not only through my surname but also through my DNA. This isn't merely the decoding of DNA, it's a journey of self-discovery.
M. Kirschbaum