Using Autosomal DNA Analysis to Identify an Ancestor's Likely Parents

Cornelia Ingersoll was born about 1788 in Carmel, Dutchess (later Westchester) County, New York. Cornelia’s life after her marriage to Henry Stogdill was well documented. However, extensive documentary research in the Carmel area failed to reveal her parents’ names. Autosomal DNA analysis left little doubt that Cornelia was the granddaughter of Josiah Ingersoll, Sr. However, Josiah fathered multiple children with two different wives. This session will illustrate how multiple test takers, DNA networks, half relationships, and maternal surnames were combined with documentary evidence to pinpoint the most likely parents for Cornelia. Attendees would benefit from a basic understanding of the principles of using autosomal DNA evidence in their research. This advanced-level session is sponsored by BCG and ICAPGen.