DNA Testing and Genealogy

DNA testing can be used for many purposes including forensics, medicine, and scientific research. For our Clan members, however, we will focus only on its use in genealogy. Genealogical DNA testing helps determine ancestry and ethnic heritage, supporting family history research. Posts by members on this subject will be shared on our Facebook page in the same way as traditional genealogical updates, so that information and advice are accessible to all. While DNA is a valuable tool, it will remain a separate branch within the Hunter Genealogy Project, alongside conventional research.

Types of Genealogical DNA Testing

There are three main kinds of DNA testing for genealogy:

• Y-DNA

• Autosomal DNA

• Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)

Y-DNA

Y-DNA follows the paternal line and is most effective for research beyond four or five generations, tracing male ancestry back tens of thousands of years. Only men can take this test. Y-DNA is highly stable: two men with a common ancestor 500 years ago should still appear as matches at 111 markers, with the number of differences (genetic distance) offering clues to the relationship. FamilyTreeDNA (FTDNA) is the leading Y-DNA testing company, and some results from other providers can be transferred to FTDNA and upgraded at a reduced cost.

For more information on our FamilyTreeDNA Y-DNA Project  Click here

Autosomal DNA

Autosomal DNA testing covers a broader family picture but is most accurate only for close relationships, such as paternity and cousins up to the second degree. Beyond that, results may be inconsistent. These tests can also suggest ethnic or regional origins, though results may vary due to unequal genetic contributions from ancestors. Importantly, surname matches don’t always indicate direct paternal links. For example, one Hunter Project member matched four Hunters through autosomal DNA, yet all belonged to different Y-haplogroups. All major testing companies offer autosomal testing. Results from Ancestry.com or 23andMe can be transferred to FTDNA to expand your match database.

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)

mtDNA traces the maternal line and can be taken by both men and women. The challenge with maternal research is that surnames typically change each generation. Clan Hunter participates in The Hunter Project on FTDNA, which welcomes members who wish to share results. If you test through other companies (Ancestry, 23andMe, Living DNA, MyHeritage, etc.), you may be able to transfer your results to FTDNA for comparison if you choose.

Recommendations for Testing

• Men who have not tested are encouraged to take the Y-DNA test with FTDNA, ideally the Big Y-700, particularly during sale periods.

• Women (and men without Hunter Y-DNA) will find the best value in testing autosomal DNA with Ancestry.com, then transferring results to FTDNA at no extra cost. This provides access to two major databases for the price of one. Ancestry regularly runs discounts, so it’s worth waiting for a sale.

A Note on Hunter Lineage

The Hunter Chiefship at Hunterston has passed through the female line on five occasions. This means not all Hunters descend directly from the Hunterston line, especially given the many cadet branches across Scotland. We have published a list of known branches currently under research.

For further questions or guidance, please feel free to contact us.

For more details on our other Hunter groups,  Click here