I’ve delayed long enough on my DNA test, so now it’s on. I’ve ordered the test packet, started up the ‘Irish Families’ DNA group, and we’re off

A simple swab of your cheek and you have captured your DNA ! This is the newest development in Irish Genealogy. Get on board by swabbing your cheek and sending it in (after you place your order, they send you a Q-tip type swab, then you mail it back to them).

Find out who you are related to. How about those with the same name as yours?

What other nationalities may be hidden in your DNA? Your DNA could trace you back to a townland in Ireland. Every year more people take the test that you can match up with. It's time to join the 'Irish Families', genealogy DNA test group.

The 'Irish Families' DNA Project

Over 700 Irish Roots Cafe members and supporters have started the "Irish Families" DNA Project. It is operated by our friends at FamilyTreeDNA.com.

They should be able to answer your DNA questions in depth as well. (note: this is a public service announcement - FamilyTreeDNA is solely responsible for any related DNA services.)

Oh, and remember, DNA genealogy tests work for any nationality.

What does it cost ?

You can start DNA tests for under $100, but I'm starting with the 37 marker 'Y dna', which is under $150, and recommended. I ordered the family finder too, out of curiousness, though it is still relatively new science. Always with a grain of salt. With all the people in our group having Irish ancestors, lots of matches coming in every month for different families....

The Tests I Just Ordered

On the Family Tree DNA page they will explain the types of tests. I picked the 'Y DNA' test with 37 markers (only men in your family can take this test), and the family finder test, which gives more general information on your DNA makeup. There is also a maternal mtDNA test best for the distant past. Pick one that looks interesting and you can upgrade it later if you like. I swabbed my cheek in October of 2013, and I'll have the test results in a couple of weeks. Wonder if I'll have any Viking or Middle Eastern DNA?

All My Families From Ireland

Our group concentrates on Irish names and families, so my Donahue, Sullivan, Kelliher, Buckley, Kilmartin, Quin, and Ready genes are up for grabs too! Family Tree DNA will be sending/posting to me, all the matches for my DNA, not only now, but more matches as people continue to take the test each year.

I'll Keep in Touch

I'll be posting updates on my DNA results on our blog at the Irish Roots Cafe Blog.

That might help you as we go along in the search together. Feel free to drop me a short note on your results, I'll try to put a note in the blog, it has a wide readership, and could find more connections for you! Be sure to sign up with the 'Irish Families' group at FamilyTreeDNA to stay connected. Those Family Tree DNA folks are ready to field your questions too.