Discovering My Heritage: A Glimpse into the Rich History of the Potts Surname Through My iGENEA DNA Test
Family name Potts
Unravelling the mysteries of my ancestry, my iGENEA DNA test provided remarkable insights about my surname ‘Potts’ and the cultural and historical tapestry that forms its backdrop. It revealed a fascinating narrative about the trades my ancestors engaged in, their social interactions, and their European lineage that includes notable Celtic and even Viking connections.
Ever since childhood, my curiosity and fascination with all things historical and cultural, has led me to seek answers about my lineage and heritage. Taking the iGENEA DNA test opened a fascinating window into my past, providing a glimpse of who my forebears were and gifting me a deeper understanding of my surname ‘Potts’.
The iGENEA DNA test revealed that the surname ‘Potts’ has a rich historical lineage dating back to Medieval Europe, probably from Germany or the British Isles. It is derived from the occupation of a 'potter', a fact that greatly piqued my interest, being a potter myself. The name could have possibly evolved with a family or individual that originally engaged in the art of pottery.
The DNA directories also suggested that my ancestors were part of a prominent Medieval Guild. This was a group of dedicated potters, a fundamental part of society then, who made essential everyday goods. The surname 'Potts' likely conveyed notable status, respect, and recognition in society.
As I traced further back, my DNA results showed that my earliest identifiable ancestors were likely Celts, who were indigenous to several parts of Europe, according to the iGENEA databases. This finding dispelled my previous assumptions of my family's roots being singularly concentrated in the British Isles, as I found that they were spread across multiple regions of Europe.
Markedly, my DNA results also suggested a likely Viking connection, that was both unsettling and exciting. This was not completely unexpected, considering the historical fact that Vikings not only raided but also settled in various parts of Europe, intermingling and leaving a DNA trail in their wake.
This journey of discovery, courtesy of the iGENEA DNA test, has certainly cultivated a profound appreciation for my ancestors and their resilience and adaptability. It has also given me humbling knowledge about their roles in society and the trades they championed, shaping centuries of cultural evolution.
R. Potts