Family History by Refit Digital

11/06/2025

✨ Ready to unlock the true power of your DNA test results? ✨

Your ethnicity estimate is just the beginning! Your DNA matches are the key to discovering hidden ancestors, breaking down family history brick walls, and connecting with living relatives you never knew existed.

Here are 3 incredible websites you can use to take your DNA research to the next level:

AncestryDNA: If you tested here, make sure your family tree is linked! Ancestry's powerful tools can show you common ancestors with your matches and help you build out your tree with "hints."
MyHeritage DNA: Did you know you can often upload your raw DNA data from other companies to MyHeritage for free? Explore their unique "Theories of Family Relativity" which suggests how you're connected to your DNA matches through existing family trees.
GEDmatch: For the serious researcher! This free, independent site allows you to upload your raw DNA from most testing companies. It offers advanced analysis tools to compare DNA segments with a massive database of users, often revealing unexpected connections.
Don't let your DNA test just sit there – start exploring your matches and uncover amazing family stories today!

02/06/2025

27/05/2024

Aimee Cross - Genealogy Hints.

26/05/2024

3 Genealogy Hacks to Uncover Your Family Secrets!
Description: Ever wondered about your ancestors? These simple tips will jumpstart your family history journey!

17/04/2024

Ever wondered just how much DNA you have in common with your ancestors, or the current members of you family?

On average you inherit 50% from each of you parents. and if you have brothers and sisters, you have 50% the same DNA as them. What about cousins second cousins, aunts and uncles?

First cousins once removed share a percentage of DNA that is slightly lower than that of first cousins. This is because they are one generation apart. To be more specific, first cousins once removed share approximately 6.25% of their DNA.

To understand this percentage better:

First cousins share about 12.5% of their DNA. This is because they share a pair of grandparents but have different parents.

First cousins once removed share about half as much DNA as first cousins. This is because one person in the relationship is one generation removed from the cousin relationship. So, they share about 6.25% of their DNA.

It's important to note that these percentages are averages and can vary slightly due to the random nature of genetic inheritance. Different segments of DNA are passed down through generations, so the exact amount of shared DNA can vary among individuals, even within the same type of cousin relationship.

Historically, some isolated communities have had a restricted pool of marriage candidates resulting in some inbreeding and higher levels of genetic defects. The topic of inbreeding is a large one better left to another time.

Should cousins marry?

The best practice regarding breeding between cousins depends on various factors, including cultural norms, legal regulations, and medical considerations. In many societies, cousin marriage is legal and culturally accepted, while in others, it may be discouraged or prohibited.

Generally, the risk of birth defects associated with cousin marriage is considered low. However, the risk increases slightly compared to non-related couples, primarily due to the potential for shared recessive genetic traits. Of course, seek proper advice if this raises any concerns.

10/01/2024

Genealogy is more than names on a family tree – it's the epic tale of your lineage. Explore the rich tapestry of your heritage, understanding the triumphs and challenges that shaped your family. Research, document, and celebrate the stories that make your family uniquely yours. Begin the journey of self-discovery through the branches of your family tree. 🌐

10/01/2024

Arriving New York in the mid 1800's.
Today we sometimes think traveling to the other side of the world is difficult. Consider how much harder it was for our ancestors in the 19th century. Often leaving their family in the old country, unlikely to see them again. Enduring a long uncomfortable voyage to arrive in the new world to face all the issues of starting over.
All this with no mobile phones and social media!

08/01/2024

Ready to uncover the mysteries of your past? Begin your family history journey by sitting down with relatives and recording their stories. Dive into old photo albums, letters, and memorabilia. Online resources like ancestry websites can also be incredible tools. Remember, every family has a unique narrative – start unraveling yours today! 🌳

26/12/2023

Genealogy - The Basics.

Genelogy is the study and tracing of family lineages and history. It involves researching and documenting the relationships between individuals across generations to understand one's family history and heritage. Genealogical research typically includes gathering information about ancestors, such as names, birth and death dates, locations, occupations, and other relevant details.

For someone just starting out in genealogy, it's like embarking on a fascinating detective journey to uncover the stories and connections that make up their family tree. It often involves exploring various sources such as birth and death records, marriage certificates, census data, military records, and other historical documents. Additionally, interviews with family members, the examination of photos and heirlooms, and the use of online databases and genealogical software can contribute to the process.

Ultimately, genealogy allows individuals to piece together the puzzle of their ancestry, providing insights into their roots, cultural heritage, and the broader context of their family's place in history. It's a rewarding and sometimes surprising endeavor that can deepen one's sense of identity and connection to the past.

15/12/2023

Family History
Before you start researching your family's history there are some things you need to consider. Mostly the history you discover will be fascinating and your research will bring you a lot of satisfaction. But there is a chance that some things lurking in your background should be left there.
DNA tests could reveal some surprises about your own parentage or that of other members of your family. This could be very unsettling for some.
You might be in an awkward situation if you find out something unpleasant about other members of your family, perhaps that they are unaware of. Should you tell them or not? Will it change your relationship with them? Just how much information should you divulge to others? Historical facts may not always be received well if they shatter preconceived ideas. A good rule may be to just share the bare minimum information about living and recent generations to safeguard their privacy.
In Australia, it was once considered shameful to admit that you had an ancestor who was a convict on a transport ship sent from England in the 18th and 19th centuries. Some 160,000 convicts were transported to Australia mainly between 1788 - 1868. Convicts were sent to America well before that with the first ship arriving in 1617.
Now attitudes have changed, and people are more likely to be interested in finding out more about any convict ancestor.
So be prepared for the good and the bad. Consider the privacy of others and protect your own. Keep records detailed enough to support what you present as facts.
Most of all make a start and enjoy the journey.