An Odyssey into Ancestry: A Personal Review of the iGENEA DNA Test and the Revelation of the Keenan Heritage
Family name Keenan
Embark on a DNA testing journey with iGENEA and discover the origins of the surname, Keenan. Uncover the historical spread of the name and connect with long-lost relatives from around the globe.
Having dabbled with the iGENEA DNA test, I've had a remarkable journey of self-discovery, unearthing intriguing truths about my surname, Keenan, and connecting with a community that shares this name. The process has been enlightening, offering me a deeper understanding of my ancestry.
Taking the DNA test had a sense of mystery and excitement. Waiting for the result, I was filled with anticipation and curiosity. Upon getting the results, I discovered that the name Keenan has Irish origins and was historically associated with ancient Irish gentry. The name is derived from the Gaelic name "O'Cianain," meaning "descendant of Cianan," with "Cianan" being a diminutive form of the old Gaelic name "Cian," meaning "ancient". This revelation invigorated my interest in genealogy and heightened my pride in my Irish heritage.
What is more intriguing is the widespread distribution of the Keenan surname. The iGENEA DNA database mapped it not just around Ireland, but globally. It demonstrated how migration and societal changes spread the name far and wide. This opened a historical panorama of centuries of upheavals and movements that spun the thread of my lineage.
One of the unique features of the iGENEA DNA test is the ability to connect individuals who share surnames to help form genealogical associations. Leveraging this, I came into contact with others named Keenan, some who turned out to be distant relatives. Engaging in conversations, exchanging anecdotes of family folklore, we built a sense of collective lineage, a shared tapestry of past and present. It was an exquisite experience of finding bonds tracing back to several centuries.
Through this DNA test, I've been able to find parts of my identity that were once obscure. It has gifted me a sense of belonging and pride, becoming an essential tool in my genealogy exploration.
D. Keenan