Stinnett Genealogy Using DNA to Research the Stinnett Surname and Variant Spellings About us STINNETT GENEALOGY is a free service managed by FamilyTreeDNA volunteers. The project was initiated by Janet Crain and Lezlie Markey with a Y-DNA focus to identify genetic links among Stinnett males using test results centered around the Y-chromosome. Y-DNA is passed down largely unchanged from father to son to grandson, etc. Where possible, member kits are then grouped with others bearing very similar Y-DNA results. This can include unrelated surnames especially where there was a change in the patrilineal line. For example, our project includes a significant subgroup of Stinnett males whose Y-DNA matches a line of Calvert males connecting back to a common Calvert male ancestor. There are also members of that subgroup with unrelated surnames, e.g. Keys and Wright. As with other genealogical research, there are often brick walls in determining when such patrilineal shifts occurred. STINNETT GENEALOGY has broadened its focus to include autosomal (atDNA) test results and to invite both male and female participants. It is now open to anyone who has the surname Stinnett—or any variant spelling—in their family tree including both male and female Stinnett ancestors. FTDNA offers an autosomal test (Family Finder) with more sophisticated tools than most other testing services. However, FTDNA also makes it convenient to transfer autosomal test results from many of the other services. This expands the opportunity for identifying matches that can confirm or fill in gaps in one’s family tree. Conventional wisdom suggests that autosomal DNA evidence has limited validity beyond three to four of the most recent generations. However, we have found that atDNA results, especially when used in conjunction with Y-DNA results, can advance identification of more distant relatives or at least narrow the list of possibilities. Combining the use of Y-DNA and atDNA provides the best possible opportunity to build a genetic picture of a surname line. To optimize participation, STINNETT GENEALOGY allows new members to join without completing a Join Request form. However, all members are expected to maintain a kit and to in submit a family tree with a minimum of parents and grandparents, if known. Project members can control access privileges, including access by administrators, although all are encouraged to permit at least “Limited” access. Additional information Click on the Background / Goals / News / Results tabs for further details, links, helpful hints and updates. News includes an example of how to transfer atDNA results from another testing service. Project administrators believe that members will derive the greatest value from an ever-expanding pool of participants.