The rise and popularity of family history websites has enabled people to investigate questions from long ago. Many of us have gaps in our family history, where we simply do not have the full details about one of our grandparents. Perhaps there is a name, half a name, or merely a story to account for the gap in the family tree. But the common question is, “who was my British grandfather?”
Finding out that these details resolves a long ago mystery. If we are overseas it will link us further to the British Isles: on exceptionally rare occasions a person has been able to secure citizenship due to their British grandparent being identified.
We recommend turning to DNA to help answer questions like this. As many millions in the UK have taken a DNA test, this will assist us. The DNA that we share with this grandparent is likely to be borne by many hundreds of other people who have publicly tested. There may be challenges in specifically identifying the individual. For example if the grandfather is ‘John Smith’, a MacKenzie from the Hebrides, or perhaps we are seeking a grandmother ‘Annie Parkinson’ of no fixed abode. It may not be straightforward to identify who they are from the records alone.
The unknown grandparent may have other descendants making it relatively straightforward to identify the person. If somebody is a close DNA match that cannot be explained through another family line, this may be the clue you need to identify your British grandparent.
We are highly skilled at identifying each and every relevant DNA match that helps pin down the family of the British grandparent. In many cases we are looking at the Victorian era. Sometimes it’s not possible for matches to respond directly. They may have passed away, no longer be interested or feel that they are not in a position to help. We can assist.
Sometimes there is a shortage of close relatives on your matchlist. In these circumstances we might advise that your living siblings consider taking a test to supplement the matchlist. It may be that there are several candidates to be the grandfather. We can recommend the best route to resolving this.
Our team is ready to take on the challenge. We specialise in unusual family structures, common names, and perplexing matches. Sometimes the work carried out leads to other mysteries being solved…. or discovered. Great care is needed in navigating a family tree where the written record is being appended by new facts. We will be able to advise on what contact to make and when, to avoid upset, whilst providing clarity for those who need it.
By all means get in touch with us to discuss a route to resolving your missing grandparent.