The Gould Y-Chromosomes DNA Project
includes Gold and Goold Y-Chromosomes
Family Tree DNA
Reconstruction
for
Male Gould and Variants descendants around worldwide
Any suggestions or submit your Gould/Gold Y DNA info to: Stevegol@blueyonder.co.uk
(Note my website is heavy construction and changes will made)
Traditionally, individuals performing genealogical research have relied upon oral history and written records to track down their ancestors. Surnames have proven to be a valuable tool in tracing descent from one generation to another, as well as the use of first name and middle name patterning. However, because names were frequently misspelled genealogists often need to examine multiple spelling variations of a surname. When spelling variations, name changes, and parallel lines are encountered research can become even more challenging. Anyone who has spent even a small amount of time doing research can attest to the frustration caused due to misspelled names, dropped letters in names, and even complete name changes. Add to that record loss due to fires, floods, wars and other disasters and you can quickly find yourself up against that all too familiar 'Brick Wall'.
Today, there is a new investigative tool called genetic or molecular genealogy. Molecular-genealogy began as early as 1909 for the purpose of identifying inherited physical characteristics. Later, it was found that deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was contained in chromosomes and acted as a carrier of genetic information. Since 1940, the chemical nature of DNA has become a science revealing more and more the mysteries that make up the human body. It has now become a science that permits the identification of individuals by the use of DNA.By now you have probably heard or read about the use of DNA testing for the purpose of tracing relatives. Molecular genealogy can already verify possible or suspected relationships between individuals. For example, if two men sharing the same last name believe that they are related (i.e. they share a common ancestor from who they received the last name), but no written record proves this relationship, we can verify this possibility by collecting and comparing a sample of DNA from both men to verify common markers at the Y-chromosome. Fathers pass their Y-chromosome down to their sons with little, if any, variation, from generation to generation. Therefore, men with identical, or near identical DNA fingerprints (some minor variation can occur), can be genetically proven to be descendants of a common male ancestor.
I
t is our hope that many Gould/Gold families will participate in this project allowing us to develop a scientifically proven DNA database of Gould/Gold lineages and specific family groups.
Our objective are:
 | To match individual and families who share a common male ancestor of the Gould surname |
| To chart the Y Chromosome of each DNA sample submitted |
| To establish common ancestors among participants |
| To breakdown some of those brick walls |
To participate in our DNA project, you must be a male with surname Gould and over 18 years of age. If you are a female reading this page and your maiden name is Gould, your natural brothers, father, Gould uncles, or Gould grandfather are eligible to participate.
Assuming you have many questions, I have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions below.
| Why are females not suitable to take this test? |
The Y-chromosome necessary to perform this test is only present in the male. It is passed directly from father to sons to grandsons.
| Which lab will you be using? |
Either Oxford Ancestors or Familiy Tree DNA, depend where you live in UK or Canada and USA etc.
| How is the test taken? |
The DNA test is quite simple and painless. Your genetic test kit consists of a cheek scraper and a collection tube. You will be able to read the instructions and perform a painless cheek scraping in about five minutes.
| How long will the testing take? |
FTDNA and OA will process the test from 3-7 weeks, the normal time being 4-6.
| How will I get my results? |
Copy of your Y DNA is sent to you by your choice of DNA test service
| Should all the male Goulds in my family be tested? |
No, there is nothing to be gained by having several members of the same family tested. Under normal circumstances it would be expected that all members would produce exactly the same results.
| If I have both a father and grandfather willing to be tested, which one should I choose? |
The grandfather would be the best choice as there is one less generation from
the grandfather back to the ancestors we are trying to match.
Order Your DNA test kit from either of your choice of DNA test services and and your payment:
Y-Line is the test offered by Oxford Ancestors in the UK, http://www.oxfordancestors.com
Another firm in Houston, TX, is FTDNA which provides a Y-DNA Plus kit with 12 or 25
markers, http://www.familytreedna.com/
Any suggestions or submit your Gould/Gold Y DNA info to: Stevegol@blueyonder.co.uk
