AncestryDNA reconstructs partial genome of person living 200 years ago

AncestryDNA genetic scientists have pushed the boundaries of human genome reconstruction methods by using the DNA of many living people to reassemble an unprecedented proportion of the human genome attributed to a 19th Century American and his two successive spouses.

This scientific feat is a step forward in the use of consumer genetics in family history, providing a glimpse into what a long ago ancestor may have looked like or which traits they may have passed down to descendants.

"Imagine if you could go back in time and see your ancestors. Would you see a part of yourself in one of them? Genetics is starting to answer questions about what an ancestor may have looked like and the specific traits they passed down to you. This is very exciting, not just for those exploring their family history, but in better understanding those who came before us," said Catherine Ball, Vice President of Genomics and Bioinformatics who led the effort at AncestryDNA.

Human genome reconstruction methods involve using science and technology to marry the past with the present. By using genetic material of living people, AncestryDNA has reassembled pieces of the human genome from a man named David Speegle and his successive spouses Winifred Crawford and Nancy Garren who lived in the early 1800's Alabama.

With many children between the two marriages during his lifetime, David and his spouses Winifred and Nancy were excellent candidates for reconstruction given the number of living descendants that all potentially carry a piece of their DNA.