DNA project

Why DNA helps

Surnames usually pass from father to son, as does the Y chromosome. If two men with the same or a similar surname share very similar Y-DNA, they probably share a paternal ancestor, even when the paper trail has gaps. It is the best way to find out whether the different spellings, and the possible different origins of the name, are one family.

The existing project

A Fernyhough DNA Project already exists on FamilyTreeDNA. When last checked it had 12 members, and it encourages Y-DNA (Y-37 and above) and mtDNA testing. If you are thinking of taking a test, that is the place to join: Fernyhough DNA Project on FamilyTreeDNA.

We are not running a separate DNA project. Men of every spelling of the name (Ferneyhough, Fernihough, Fearnehough and the rest) are worth testing, so please do not be put off by the project's name.

Things to know

• Y-DNA only follows the male line of a surname; mtDNA and autosomal tests tell you about other lines.
• For a surname project, Y-37 is the usual minimum; Y-111 gives more detail. Prices change, so check the company's site.
• DNA results are sensitive personal data. We never publish anyone's results on this site.