Dick Eastman Online
  Dick Eastman – 7/11/2001

DNA For Family Historians

If you have been reading this newsletter for a while, you know that DNA is becoming the hottest topic amongst genealogists. For the first time, we are starting to see a method of proving ancestry. In the past we have always relied upon documentation for "proof," and most of us have expended lots of effort to obtain the proper documents. However, in theory, DNA could become more accurate and more meaningful than even the best documentation. Note that I said, "in theory." We have a long way to go before that becomes reality.

I do not have a medical background, and I have struggled to learn all the terminology and the science involved. Until this week, I was still struggling with the difference between mitochondrial DNA and Y-chromosome DNA. I didn't have a clue what "unique event polymorphisms" means. OK, so I am still struggling. However, I now have a new "guidebook" that explains the differences in terms that even I can understand.

"DNA For Family Historians" is a slim booklet written by Alan Savin of Maidenhead, England. This 32-page publication explained more terms in layman's language than anything else I have seen. The book explores the potential use of DNA for family history research. It describes genetic theory and case studies as well as discussing the usefulness and problems of using DNA as a tool for genealogy. It is written at a level to be understood by any layperson.

The chapters in this book include:

1. Introduction
2. Historical Background
3. DNA Fingerprinting
4. Mitochondrial DNA
5. Y-chromosome DNA
6. Collecting and Analyzing DNA
7. Future Developments
8. Bibliography
As you might expect in a 32-page publication, the author does not go into great detail. He does, however, present the necessary information in a manner that is easy to read, even for us non- medical types. He explains all the important terminology and then tells what it means to genealogists. For those who want to really dig into the details, the end-of-book bibliography gives references to many more textbooks, magazine articles and web sites.

"DNA For Family Historians" sells for £3.99 or $6.99 (U.S. funds) plus shipping. You can obtain more information at: www.savin.org/dna-book.html. Note that the site does not feature a secure online order form.

Author Alan Savin advises that he would like to establish a non- profit DNA service so that family historians worldwide would be able to access these new DNA tools at about one-third the cost of the present commercial services. He hopes to be able to purchase used equipment from a service that needs to upgrade to more modern (and more costly) technology. This used equipment would suit the needs of genealogists. Even the tools of a few years ago will accurately prove ancestry.

Alan Savin's hopes for a non-profit organization need funding and more. If you, your genealogy society, or your company have an interest in contributing to this project, you can contact Alan Savin at: alan@savin.org

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