Group Projects

In most cases, DNA research works better in combination with others. FamilyTreeDNA hosts a wide range of group projects based on YDNA lines, mtDNA, regional and surname specific questions. With my own test, I previously joined the A2 mtDNA haplogroup, the Mexico DNA, and the R-U152-FGC22501 projects. I've now added my interest to join the Diaz/Dias project as my mtDNA result descends from my 2nd-great-grandmother Teresa Diaz.

I recently added my Dad's result to the Guthrie genealogy project. Today I added his kit to the Lemon project on FTDNA and the Thorne/Thorn project. I was previously in contact with Earl Layman on his Lehman Genealogy and own a copy of his 2006 book and the 2011 supplement.

For the Thorne/Thorn project, we're waiting on the mtDNA result for cousin Lynn, which will provide the haplogroup for Elizabeth Thornhill of Culpeper, Virginia and Jefferson County, Tennessee. I've already heard back from an administrator of the project. This has prompted another search for a living Thornhill male from this branch of the family for a potential YDNA test.

As for YDNA tests, FTDNA currently has a sale underway through 12 November 2025 on various kits, including YDNA, mtDNA, autosomal (FamilyFinder) transfers from other sources such as Ancestry, and bundled savings for multiple types of tests. This is a great opportunity to get a lower cost test, one that could break through some brick and adobe walls for anyone interested in more targeted DNA testing.

On the maternal side of the tree, I've also reached out to the Gibson project to see if participating in this effort with autosomal DNA will identify a clear connection to the family of James Robert Gibson and Nancy Street. On Ancestry, my Mom has 121 DNA matches to descendants of James Robert Gibson with ThruLines. My aunt Linda has 101 DNA matches from James, while my aunt Patty has a 116 DNA matches from James. I think that's a really strong indicator of a connection.