GEDmatch – Autosomal DNA – Family Tree

GEDmatch primer

As many of you are aware, we have added autosomal DNA component to help identify our Treinfhir origins. This is different than the Y-DNA project previously done as autosomal tests can be taken by anyone, whereas the Y-DNA is only taken by men tracing their male lineage.   Autosomal DNA is an exciting area that provides up to a 4^th-generation match. Then you can use genealogical research to determine the exact family lines.  The goal is to determine your most recent common ancestor. 

GEDmatch is an independent company that allows you to upload your raw DNA from your testing company, such as Family Tree DNA or Ancestry.  GEDmatch provides this as a FREE service. However, please note GEDmatch does not provide DNA testing. The bonus is that the reports available will help to identify your DNA matches regardless of where you tested.  Without companies like Gedmatch, this process might require multiple tests and would take much longer.

The first step after you have tested for autosomal DNA is to set up a free account at https://www.gedmatch.com  At the top of their webpage is a tab called “How it Works”.  Within the tab is a video by Andy Lee of Family History Fanatics.  He explains how to set up your account in detail and explains the meaning of each section.  His video helps to make the entire process very easy and is well worth watching.

After your account is set up, return to your testing company website and download a copy of your raw autosomal DNA.  Andy Lee has a great video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Z4vyKuSXa4.  He explains how to download your raw DNA and upload it to GEDmatch.  The process may seem daunting to some but you’ll be surprised at how simple it really is.  If you need any further clarification on downloading your raw DNA there are numerous links available through Google or reach out here for any guidance.

GEDmatch now offers an excellent education component to their website training.  The training tutorials help you understand the reports available on their website.  The education link will pop up once you have signed in to your account and will guide you to the tutorials at https://education.gedmatch.com.  The videos are listed in three sections for Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced users. 

Gedmatch also provides us with the ability to run our Treinfhir Ancestor Project and many other Ancestor projects you may be interested in.  This helps give you a clear idea of family lines. The reports within the ancestor project identify your matches.  This confirms who you are related to within the Treinfhir group.  One thing to keep in mind is that there is a possibility you may also be related in another family line such as McMahon’s or McKenna’s.  Once you delve further into this, things will become more clear as to why this is.    

Please note there are Tier 1 tools available on GEDmatch.  These can be accessed for a nominal fee should you choose to take advantage of them.  They are not required in order for you to see your matches or many of the reports.

If you haven’t already taken an autosomal DNA test, please consider doing so.  It’s a valuable addition to your genealogy research. 

If you need any help or clarification please reach out here, or GEDmatch has a very good support system for any questions you might have.  

Autosomal, Y-DNA, Mitochondrial DNA, Family Tree

We have a significant effort started in Y-DNA that we describe HERE. This has tied our branches of the Treinfhir Clan together at…