Finding Familial Ties with iGENEA: A Kölsch's Tale of Genetic Discovery
Family name Kölsch
Embarking on a journey of DNA discovery with iGENEA, I unearthed the lore and depth of my Germanic surname 'Kölsch'. The journey, nourished by a blend of anticipation and inquisitiveness, resulted in establishing intriguing links with my ancestry spanning borders from Germany to Eastern Europe.
When I ordered my DNA analysis kit from iGENEA and received the package, I felt a blend of anticipation and apprehension. I had always known I am of Germanic descent, with my family name 'Kölsch', a popular name in Germany, especially in and around the city of Cologne. My forebears had migrated to the United States in the late 19th century, however, records about the origins prior to that period were sparse. Embarking on a DNA tested journey, I hoped we’d unearth those untold stories hidden in my genes.
The process was simple. I collected a DNA sample using the cheek swab included in the iGENEA kit, sent it back in the postage-paid envelope, and I sat back and waited for the results. In under 2 months, my results were available online.
The results were meticulously detailed, and as I analyzed them, I was transported in time and geography. My paternal genetic lineage traced back to the ancient Germanic people, aligning well with my surname's history. 'Kölsch' roots can be traced to Cologne, and the test confirmed a large proportion of my DNA match in the North Rhine-Westphalia region where this city is present, confirming the stories that my grandparents shared about our forebears hailing from the Rhineland region.
What surprised me, however, was a significant share of Eastern Europe genetic markers. That was completely unexpected. Some research into the surname Kölsch led me to discover that indeed there were a few periods in history due to various socio-economic factors, with Germans, including those from Cologne, migrated eastwards.
This was an enlightening discovery, redefining my perception of my surname. After this inquisitive expedition with iGENEA, I am more connected than ever to my Germanic heritage and excited about my newfound Eastern European lineage. The Kölsch name, it appears, has spanned borders, cultures, languages and survived the vicissitudes of history.
Overall, my experience with iGENEA was rewarding. This journey helped me expand the horizons of my understanding of my family name, uncovering stories I never knew existed. iGENEA's DNA analysis helped me trace the brilliance of the stars in my genetic galaxy, spanning Germany to Eastern Europe, and I couldn't be more thrilled to understand the lauded history of Kölsches from around the world.
O. Kölsch