Unravelling My Ancestry: A Journey Through the History and Culture of the Link Surname Via DNA Test
Family name Link
Using an iGENEA DNA test, I embarked on a fascinating journey into my genealogical past, unravelling the history and origins of my surname–Link. This exploration led me across various geographical territories, touched on remarkable historical events and revealed an unexpected cultural connection, crafting an engrossing narrative about my ancestry.
Through an iGENEA DNA test, I have unearthed a wealth of information about my surname–Link. This surname, I have come to learn, is steeped in the culture and history of multiple geographical territories. The Link surname is primarily of Anglo-Saxon origin, descending from the tribal groups who inhabited pre-Roman Britain.
The Link surname carries remarkable historical significance. Being of pre-7th-century Olde English origin, it derives from Hlinke, an early personal name. The name and its variants trace back to the famous Domesday Book of 1086, in which it is mentioned as 'Hlinca.' The ecclesiastical records of the diocese of Canterbury also attribute the name to Martha Linke, who was christened therein in 1658.
The prevalent concentration of the Link surname is in Western Europe, particularly in Germany, with a significant spread across Britain, North America, and Australia. The highest density is located in Baliözü, a town in Turkey. This distribution suggests a diffusion of my ancestors across different territories over the course of centuries.
Interestingly, the DNA test revealed an unexpected link (no pun intended) to Jewish ancestry. I discovered an Ashkenazi Jewish lineage, despite no known Jewish ancestry based on our family records. It led me to understand the complexity and the fluidity of identity and culture, which may be lost or diluted over generations.
Investigating further into the tribal roots, I found that the surname derives from the Viking tribe 'Vikinkr,' meaning a seagoing warrior. This group from Scandinavia was known for its exploratory, trading, and conquering exploits from the late eighth to early 11th century. This introduces a riveting narrative of bravery, adventure, and unconventional life paths in my heritage.
Delving into my surname history via the results of the iGENEA DNA test has unlocked a profound understanding of my heritage. It has helped me gain new insights into who I am and where I have come from, proving the saying that 'knowledge of history is the pathway to understanding.'
P. Link