29. Cousins of All Flavors

 

So, you have finally had your DNA tested.  The results have come back and now you have a general idea from where your ancestors originated and their source groups, (for example, Scandinavian, Irish, Italian, African, Croatian, etc.).  In addition, for months now you have been receiving notices from the DNA website indicating that they have found yet another person who is related to you. 

 

You probably understand who a First Cousin is, but when they suggest the person might be a third cousin, once removed, that could be a bit puzzling.  And, you have never heard of this person in your entire life!  What to do?  What does “once removed” really mean? 

 

Well, first off, you might search the internet for a copy of a diagram that illustrates how your cousins are connected.  This will be a great help.  Simply Google search “Cousin Chart” and you will find several to choose from.  Family Search has an excellent one; it is well explained and color-coded.  

 

Once you have your diagram, you can populate it with relatives you know, it should help you become more accustomed to the terminology.  Have fun.

 

Now, about all those folks who are contacting you from the DNA website.  What to do?  Well, first off, it is always wise to remain polite.  If you are working on your family’s ancestors, these folks just might be the breakthrough support that you need to crack through your current “Brick Wall”.  

 

For example, some of these folks may have done some quality research that you can benefit from.  If they have a family tree that they can share, they might have some source records that will clinch the “clues” you have been pursuing.  So, contact with these folks can be extremely helpful.

 

If you are overwhelmed with the onslaught of inquiries, we always recommend that you always remain polite and offer what you can from your research.  It could be that you are rescuing someone from a genealogical quandary swamp.  You can always be supportive of others without taking on their work.

 

Above all, enjoy the journey of discovery about your family and your past.

 

Ron Gilmore

Email:         rvg3@me.com

Website:     https://www.rgenealogy.ca