About us
PRIMARY GOAL. To have all Kent family researchers list their own lineage, whether or not they have taken a DNA test. These lineages are grouped together and listed on our Lineage "Results" page. Identifying other researchers that descend from the same KENT family or are familiar with a region their ancestors are most associated, facilitates collaboration and it is strongly encouraged.
SECONDARY GOAL. It is an integral part of this project for "qualifying" KENT males to take a "y-DNA" test (with a minimum of 37 markers) so we can determine which KENT families are related to each other.* Ideally, testing (3) three distant male cousins that have a paper trail to the same male KENT ancestor, will reveal the genetic signature of that patriarch. Mostly, participants purchase their own test, but there are a few opportunities available for sponsorship on specific KENT lines.
ULTIMATE GOAL. A future goal is to genetically link both international Kent families and U.S. Colonial-Era Kent families with their KENT kin in their respective mother-countries.
Become an Associate Researcher. DNA testing is not required!
- List your own KENT lineage. As an Associate Researcher, there is no need to take a DNA test. Your lineage will be listed in the appropriate region along with other researchers associated with that area on our Lineage "Results" page. There is no stigma associated with declining to take a DNA test since there are plenty of reasons why someone can't, or chooses not take to take a test.
Become a Project Member. There are three ways to join.
Benefits include: Access to a new group of genetic relatives that provide their direct email address (better responses); The ability to compare your DNA directly against other KENT project members (that have taken the same test); and, Access to member-only sections of this website.
- You (or a family member) can take a DNA test with Family Tree DNA (FTDNA).
Typically, male AND females choose the "Family Finder" test (for close genealogy).* If you are (biologically) a KENT son, please consider taking a "y-DNA" test (37 markers is the minimum for genealogical relevance). Most people start with the most economical choice, the "Family Finder" test since FTDNA has the capability that allows customers to add further DNA testing at a later date, without needing to supply a new sample.
- If you have already taken a DNA test at Family Tree DNA, you can add our project to your account.
Just add the Kent Family & DNA Project to your existing Family Tree DNA account, and you will be automatically enrolled.
- If you have already taken a test at AncestryDNA™, 23andMe©, or MyHeritage™ DNA, you may be able to transfer a copy of your results to FTDNA.
Some versions of their tests are compatible with the Family Tree DNA platform, and a copy of those results can be easily transferred to FTDNA for FREE. Frequently asked questions about the free transfer program.
- Once your account is setup, please add the Kent Family & DNA Project so your results can be compared with other members of this project.
- There is an OPTIONAL one-time fee of $19 that is HIGHLY recommended to unlock advanced features (the highly acclaimed chromosome browser, myOrigins, etc.).