Tracing the threads of time- An inward journey through my iGENEA DNA test results on the surname Wray
Family name Wray
The iGENEA DNA Test unveiled a journey across time and landscapes. It turns out, the legacy of my surname, 'Wray', is entwined with the Old Norse Vikings who lived in remote areas, with a strong trail in western Europe and a formidable presence across the continent in the Neolithic period. The discovery has left me with newfound appreciation and curiosity for my ancestry.
The recent results of my iGENEA DNA test were eye-opening to say the least, shedding light on the genetic tapestry intricately woven not only within me but across generations. Most importantly, the findings unraveled the mystery of my surname - Wray.
Emanating from this captivating test was that Wray is of Old Norse origin, linking me directly to the Scandanavian Vikings who settled in the British Isles during the Dark Ages. The term 'Wray' descends from the Old Norse 'vra', meaning 'remote or isolated place.' This insight provides a fascinating nugget of information about my forebears' original lifestyle, signaling their anticipated preference of solitude.
On the haplogroup front, the DNA results revealed that I belong to Haplogroup R1b - one synonymous with western Europe, predominantly found amongst men in Ireland, Scotland and England, perfectly aligning with the geographical etymology of the surname Wray.
Moreover, through the maternal haplogroup assignment, my connection with the Haplogroup H was confirmed. Around 40-60% of the population in Europe belongs to this group, providing strong evidence that my female ancestors made significant contributions to European population growth, up to the Neolithic period.
The results also uncovered the existence of nearly 2000 possible DNA-relatives, evidencing a vast network of Wray descendants dispersed across the globe. This unexpectedly large number could be a footprint of historical migration patterns of Viking ancestors.
All in all, my iGENEA DNA test threw up a wealth of valuable information about my ancestral lineage, offering a greater understanding of the tapestry of lives that preceded my own. From living in remote areas to surviving and contributing significantly to European demographics, it seems the Wray clan carries an overwhelming legacy. It is an experience that I would say has empowered me to embrace a unique narrative etched deep within my genes, one that I am eager to explore further.
P. Wray