Discovering Roots and Resilience: A Journey of self-discovery with iGENEA unfolding the History of my Surname Gross
Family name Gross
With iGENEA, I undertook an enlightening journey of familial self-discovery and delved deep into the history of my family name, Gross, tracing my lineage to Central Europe. Unfolding the chapters of my past through DNA analysis, I was rerooted to my ancestry, offering a palpable connection to history and a newfound understanding of my identity.
My adventure of familial self-discovery with iGENEA began as a curiosity regarding the roots and history of my last name, Gross. As a layman in genealogy, I was intrigued and eager to uncover the possible treasures hidden in the depths of my ancestry. The ordering process was straightforward, and in no time, I received a DNA collection kit at my doorstep. Following the instructions diligently, I sent back the kit and eagerly awaited the results.
When the DNA analysis finally arrived, it was like receiving a long-forgotten story written in the language of my genes. According to iGENEA, my family name Gross traces its roots to Central Europe. I learnt that the surname Gross could have its origin in a nickname for a big and strong person, or someone who was unbridled, given the Germanic origins of the word, which means 'large' or 'big'.
Through the comprehensive genetic analysis, it was unveiled that I belong to the haplogroup R-U106, a branch of the larger haplogroup R. This group is particularly prevalent in Central Europe, making its way through the valleys and peaks of history amongst the Germanic tribes. This connection left me enthralled.
But the journey with iGENEA wasn't just about history, it was a lesson in demographics as well. I was matched with several distant relations globally who shared the same haplogroup, painting a vivid image of my ancestors' migration. One surprising discovery was tracing a few distant relatives in North America, suggesting migration occurred during periods of European colonization or subsequent waves of immigration.
My surname name discovery has had a profound effect on me. I have since started learning German and have developed a new-found interest in Germanic history, specifically the ancient tribes. One cannot put a true value to the connection to your past that iGENEA offers.
I feel proud of my lineage, and I am amazed at the resilience and travels of my ancestors. Having an understanding of their journey, I now have a greater appreciation of my heritage and a renewed sense of identity. IGENEA has granted me an opportunity to walk in the footprints of history and learn about my family name from a far deeper perspective.
Striking the right balance between science and history, iGENEA is more than just a genealogy service. It provides a bridge to one's past, offering a renewed understanding of who we are and where we come from.
R. Gross