Project Background and Purpose: The Ehlers surname is fairly uncommon, with most of the original immigrants coming from the Germany or Denmark. This Ehlers DNA Project was started in June 2010 and currently has one lonely member. The goal is to create a database of as many Ehlers relatives as possible, in the hope of finding matches among the samples. How does DNA testing work? Each participant receives a kit, which contains instructions and materials allowing him to swab his cheek for DNA, preserve it, and return it to FamilyTreeDNA. The lab then analyzes the DNA found on the Y-chromosome. This DNA is passed down (almost) unaltered from father to son. Therefore, those who share a large percentage of "markers" share a male ancestor within a certain number of generations (depending on how many and the type of test). FamilyTreeDNA has tests for 12, 37 or 67 markers. You can start with any level of test, and then upgrade later. However, while no additional swabbing is necessary for an upgrade, the sample must be processed again (which takes several weeks). The added cost of the upgrade is also more than the initial combined price. In our experience, almost all participants that start with the 12-marker test ultimately upgrade to test to a higher level, so starting with 37 markers usually saves time and money. If there is a strong chance you are related to one of the lines already tested, a 67 marker test will be most useful in helping to figure out just where your line falls. What do the results mean? The results are expressed in matches. If you do the 37 marker test, for example, you'll find out those with whom you match at the 12 and 37 marker level. You also know, through our website, those lines that you do not match. So in general, the results can tell you several things: • Confirm that a participant is related to a particular male line, even if he doesn't know (yet) how that connection may come in. • Or, confirm that a line already traced is likely accurate - if two 21st century men share markers, and they've traced their male lines back to a common 18th century forefather, this is good evidence that their lines are accurately traced. • Or, the test can tell you you're not related to a particular line. This, while disappointing, can save one years of researching in the wrong places. Who should participate? Any man named Ehlers. Your male line must either be all Ehlers (no known illegitimacy or adoption) or you're trying to prove that such a thing did/did not occur. See the Results Page for those already tested to see if we have information on your line. Are you an Ehlers female or grandson? Sponsor your father/brother/cousin. They don't have to do anything except swab their cheek - you'll get all the results. Do 'Join' the Ehlers Project before ordering the kit as you will get a discount as a member of a project. Still have questions? Do read our FAQ page at https://www.familytreedna.com/faq/answers/8.aspx#511 -------------------------------------------------------------- Why is DNA so important? - #1 - To confirm your dedicated family research. DNA and a good thorough paper trail go hand-in-hand. Each compliment the other. Now we have two methods of proving our ancestors, both going a different route, both coming to the same conclusion. #2 - To reach those conclusions, one must MATCH with another of the same surname (or variation). We all have searched for a possible “research” candidate for DNA testing (not one who is closely related, but one we suspect and have found “weak” or even PRIMARY documentation (with a little variation) to support a PROBABLE distant cousin. Doubts? There are always doubts – we need a second opinion, which is when we turn to DNA to confirm our research and remove those doubts! #3 - What if you do not match another Ehlers through DNA testing? Do NOT GIVE UP – in the meantime, continue your dedicated standard genealogical research – as you progress, you will begin to find a cousin or two – persuade them to be tested to confirm your new research – DNA testing is still young – more and more are coming around, dis-believers are beginning to realize its importance – of being able to have their research proven by a different type of “research” other than standard genealogical methods. #4 – What if you match a surname(s) other than Ehlers? You will be provided contact information for the specific surname(s) for further research. This is not an unusual happening – there are many reasons for this occurrence. DNA has given you guidance, not a defeat, only a little twist and turn in your road to reach your quest. Imagine the unknown mystery you may uncover about your family. Yes, more comprehensive research will be needed. However; you’ll never regret it – documentation is out there which is waiting for you to discover – it’s unbelievable the amount of often-neglected sources – Check out our GOALS page for suggestions. -------------------------------------------------------------- Edited 20 Jun 2010