What is a surname tree?
A surname tree is a paternal-lineage tree built from male Y-chromosome (Y-DNA) data, placing samples with the same surname by common descent to trace that surname's paternal origins and migrations.
Why can one surname have multiple haplogroups?
The same surname is not always the same paternal line. Historical surname changes, bestowals, taboo-avoidance, adoptions and migrations mean one surname often contains several unrelated paternal branches, hence different haplogroups.
How do I join for free?
After registering, use “Free Submit” to upload your Y haplogroup or SNPs, and your sample will be placed on the corresponding surname tree.
How does a surname tree relate to traditional genealogies?
Traditional genealogies rely on written records, while a surname tree uses Y-chromosome DNA to corroborate and complement the paternal line, so the two can cross-validate common descent and migration.