DNA Proof
DNA Proof
Y-DNA testing from several branches of Petticrews and Pettigrews reveals most of us DO share a common (but unknown) paternal ancestor.
A little background: Every male receives his Y-chromosome virtually unchanged from his biological father. Males who are closely related generally on their father’s side have nearly identical Y-chromosome “markers.” Sometimes Y-DNA does change very slightly because of random mutations, and these slight variations make Y-DNA extremely useful in genealogical studies. Note this test ONLY works for fathers and sons – the son of a Petticrew MOTHER will not have Petticrew Y-DNA.
In 2002 the first dozen male Pettigrew participants submitted Y-DNA samples to the FamilyTreeDNA Y-DNA Project. Most of the four dozen Pettigrew and Petticrew descendants who participated in this Y-DNA testing proved to have very similar Y-DNA, indicating high probabilities they shared a common ancestor several hundred years ago. Among others, Project participants include descendants of:
a. James Pettigrew (born April 1713 Crilly House, near Auchnacloy, Co. Tyrone, Ireland – died 24 December 1784 Abbeville, SC)
b. James Pettycrew (b. Ireland, died 1799 Rockbridge, VA)
c. David Petticrew (born 1713 Ireland (?) – died 1784 Hanover Township, PA)
d. Jacob Pettigrew (about 1800-1881), lived his entire life in western Pennsylvania
e. Alexander Pettegrew (born 09 March 1718 Scotland – died 1758 in Grantham, Sullivan, New Hampshire)
After analyzing the close relationship between the Pettigrews and the Petticrews, I approached Family Tree DNA about merging the two projects. After review by FTDNA management, and based on genetic similarities and the overlap in the history of the surnames, this merger was approved. The merged group is named the Pettigrew/Petticrew Project. I have been identified by familytreedna.com to "integrate the two groups and to make the transition as seamless as possible."
Please contact me if you want further information about these results.
If you are (or know) a male who is named Pettigrew, Petticrew, Bedegrew, or similar variation, PLEASE join the Y-DNA project at:
http://www.familytreedna.com/group-join.aspx?Group=Pettigrewhttp://www.familytreedna.com/group-join.aspx?Group=Pettigrew
We need each project participant to be tested to at least 37 markers. Unfortunately, the ancestry.com Y-DNA test does not test all the same markers, but if you go to the FamlityTreeDNA site you can learn how to transfer results and obtain an upgrade.
After you have a familytreedna account you can join as many "Projects" as you want at no cost.
There is a sale right now that expires on Sunday, 15 July, 2012, so sign up TODAY!