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 Unlike historical documents, which can be incomplete or inaccurate, DNA offers scientific evidence of family relationships, ethnic origins, and ancestral migration patterns.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. Eight SGS members did the first round of testing and results were received in 2003.
The DNA Project has discovered that Robert and Obadiah were not father/son nor brothers. According to the DNA results, Robert and Obadiah were not even closely related. DNA markers between the two are significantly different based on the testing of descendants with clear evidence back to these original immigrants.
This project has two main goals:
Many researchers do not have their Seeley lineages confirmed back to the immigrant. For those people, DNA can clearly show if they are descended from either Nathaniel or Obadiah. All but one of the Seeleys tested to date have been found to be descendants of Obadiah or Nathaniel.
When we have obtained enough DNA data from individuals with known lineages, we may be 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. When enough data is collected, it should be possible to say something like “you are most likely on the Obadiah-Jonas line because you have a score of 16 at DYS456” (just a hypothetical example, not clearly shown yet).
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:
We recommend using FamilyTreeDNA as your testing laboratory.
Contact the SGS DNA Project Manager, Kara Seelye Donaldson, before ordering any tests.
Y-DNA Testing (paternal line)
To be tested, you need to either be a Seeley-surnamed male (any spelling), or find a living Seeley-surnamed male on your line to test. You whould 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 Y-Chromosome is passed only from father to son, and only males with a Seeley surname should apply for the test. As of August 2025, the 37 marker Y-DNA cost $119.00 at FamilyTreeDNA and there is no SGS surcharge or cost to compare your results.
mtDNA Testing (maternal line)
With the advances in DNA testing, FamilyTreeDNA now offers Mitochondrial (mtDNA) tests on their website. Although, males do receive mitochondrial DNA from their mothers, they do not pass it on to their children, but mothers do pass it on to their daughters, which might help your research through the females in the family. SGS is now including these results along with the Y-DNA. As of August 2025, the mtDNA test cost $159.00.
Autosomal DNA 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, building family trees, and estimating ethnic background. Both sexes can participate in this testing.
Testing Expenses
At the present, participants will need to pay for the cost of their own testing. In the near future, some funding may be available from the Society to help with the cost of testing.
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?
