DNA plays a critical role in genealogy because it provides a biological record of ancestry that complements traditional paper-based research. Unlike historical documents, which can be incomplete or inaccurate, DNA offers scientific evidence of family relationships, ethnic origins, and ancestral migration patterns. By analyzing genetic markers, individuals can confirm lineage, identify unknown relatives, and break through genealogical ‘brick walls,’ making DNA an indispensable tool for building accurate and comprehensive family histories.
In 2002, Fred Hart, a professional genealogist hired by SGS, had just finished some research on immigrant Obadiah Seeley (SGS #4) and suggested that we might try using DNA testing to gain further information about Obadiah's ancestry in England. The Board agreed and Wesley Waring, SGS member, took on the project.
The DNA Project launched with the goal of establishing our connections with Nathaniel Seeley (SGS #2) and Obadiah Seeley (SGS #4) - both thought at the time to be sons of immigrant Robert Seeley. The SGS worked with Relative Genetics, a DNA lab in England, believing there might be people more closely related to immigrant Seeleys in their database. Eight SGS members had tests done and results were received in 2003.
Since the initial round of testing, the SGS has continued to evaluate Y-DNA test results from members who volunteer to be part of the project. Anonymous Y-DNA and Mitochondrial (mtDNA) test results are now managed and reviewable on our Seeley group site at FamilyTreeDNA. (See below for links to our test results.)
The goals for the project started modestly and have expanded some since the initial project. They include:
Our ability to establish connections with our immigrant ancestors is based on DNA tests taken by Seeleys with varifiable lineages to those ancestors. We are then able to use the DNA data to identify the first several generations down from an immigrant using a person’s DNA profile. Mutations (random changes in the DNA profile between generations), happen rarely, but often enough to be found during the number of generations between the immigrants and the living generations. These changes are passed down from father to son. Most Seeleys tested to date have been found to be descendants of Obadiah or Nathaniel, so we now have a good baseline for their DNA. For Seeleys who do not have their lineages confirmed back to an immigrant, DNA can now clearly show if they are descended from either Nathaniel, Obadiah, or to someone else.
Some Seeleys who have been tested are not related to Nathaniel of Obadiah, which hints at other Seeley immigrants and lines. We encourage more volunteers share their test results to make the data more and more accurate - and perhaps discover more immigrant lines and help break through people's genealogical brick walls.
Have you ever wondered how your DNA ties you to the Seeley family story—or to an original immigrant ancestor? Our DNA Project is your chance to find out.
Confirm your family connections and fill in missing branches of your tree.
Discover shared ancestry with other members and deepen your understanding of your heritage.
Help build a stronger Seeley family network for generations to come.
Every test adds a piece to the puzzle, helping all of us better understand where we come from. Your contribution matters—your DNA could hold the key to unlocking new family connections and breaking down brick walls!
The Seeley Genealogical Society's original project was to prove the lineage of Robert Seeley (SGS #1) and Obadiah Seeley (SGS #4) using the 37-marker Y-DNA test. We now have the 37-marker “Nathaniel Profile” (son of Robert) and “Obadiah Profile” clearly established. We still need to test additional Seeley-surnamed males to help establish the DNA profile for lines descended from immigrants other than Nathaniel or Obadiah.
We've now expanded the project to include all DNA tests: Y-DNA, autosomal DNA, and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Our objectives of including the autosomal and mitochondrial tests is to enhance our previous research and explore our maternal lines. We hope this will eliminate some of the brick walls we have encountered.
If you fall into any of these categories, please consider participating in the DNA project:
Y-DNA Testing (paternal line)
The Y-Chromosome is passed only from father to son, so to be tested for Seeley research purposes, you need to either be a Seeley-surnamed male (any spelling), or find a living Seeley-surnamed male on your line who is willing to test. FamilyTreeDNA is the only provider of Y-DNA testing. You would order at least the 37 marker Y-DNA test to be able to compare your results with the DNA profiles we have on file (the more markers the better though).
As of August 2025, the 37 marker Y-DNA test cost $119.00 at FamilyTreeDNA. They often have significant discounts around the holidays.
Once tested, you would join the "Seeley, Seely, Seelye Y-DNA" group in FamilyTree and share your results (your privacy is preserved). There is no additional cost to join the group.
Mitochondrial (mtDNA) Testing (maternal line)
Although, males do receive mitochondrial DNA from their mothers, they do not pass it on to their children, but mothers pass it on to their daughters, which might help your research through the females in the family. With the advances in DNA testing, FamilyTreeDNA now offers Mitochondrial (mtDNA) testing - and again, the only provider to do so. SGS is now including these results along with the Y-DNA in our FamilyTree group.
As of August 2025, the mtDNA test cost $159.00. Again, watch for discounts around holidays.
Autosomal DNA Testing (all lines)
People of any sex can participate in this testing.
Autosomal DNA testing examines non-sex chromosomes inherited from both parents, providing information about ancestry from all branches of a person's family tree. This type of test is useful for identifying relatives across recent generations (around 5 generations), but also can tell you about your ancestral geographic origins, migration, ethnic origin, and personal traits.
Multiple sources provide autosomal DNA testing (AncestryDNA, FamilyTreeDNA, My Heritage, etc.). AncestryDNA claims to have the largest database, providing more possibilities for matches. As of February 2026, Ancestry's test is $100-120 (with sales as low as $29), FamilyTreeDNA is $79 (with sales around $39), and My Heritage's test is $89 (with sales aroud $33).
Coming Soon: In 2026, the SGS is going to start a Seeley autosomal DNA group in GEDmatch to further explore all lines of the family, including maternal lines. No matter where you take (or have taken) the test, it can be uploaded to the GEDmatch group. Watch for an announcement of when that will be available.
Testing Expenses
Generally, participants will need to pay for the cost of their own testing (sales are usually offered around the holidays). If aligned with specific SGS research priorities, some funding may be available from the Society to help with the cost of testing if needed.
Privacy
The identity of the test subjects will be kept strictly confidential. Participants will only be identified by the first few generations of their Seeley lineage. Participants who are close matches with other participants can be put in contact with each other to share genealogical information if both parties agree to it.
Ready to make history?
