Welcome to the Patterson DNA Project. The Patterson surname is one of the most common surnames in Scotland and in Northern Ireland, where many Scots emigrated beginning in the early 1600’s. The Patterson/Paterson/Pattison/etc. surname is thought to have originated independently in different areas of Scotland. Y-DNA testing can help Patterson researchers learn where in Scotland their branch originated, and can put researchers of related lines in contact with each other. The Patterson DNA Project exists to help members find answers through genetic testing, and by sharing information. One of our co-administrators, Janice (Patterson) Rosenthal, has researched many Patterson lines settling early in Pennsylvania. Project members with ancestors living in colonial Pennsylvania may want to check out the papers posted on her website at www.pattersongenealogy.info