Tracing the Herndon Heritage: A Journey of Discovery Through the iGENEA DNA Test
Family name Herndon
A rush of excitement filled me when I opened the results of my iGENEA DNA test. What unfolded from these checkboxes and charts were a tale of my ancestors, places they originated, and an intriguing history of my surname, Herndon. Emerging from a small English town, my surname traces back to Anglo-Saxon tribes and connects me to the significant British migration wave to North America. On this enlightening journey, I discovered how my ancestral roots maneuvered through history, defining what I am today.
The moment I received the results from my iGENEA DNA test, I was consumed by an overwhelming feeling of giddiness and curiosity. The results unfolded a story of my ancestors, places they originated from, and even gave me a better understanding of my surname, Herndon.
My DNA test reveals that the surname Herndon has its roots in England, linked to a small town named Herndon in Northamptonshire. The name has Old English origins, stemming from two words "hyrne", meaning nook or corner, and "denu" which refers to a valley. Hence, Herndon could be translated to mean "valley corner".
Historically, it is believed the name first emerged during the Middle Ages, being adopted by those dwelling in or around the town of Herndon. Over time, it consequently spread to other regions as family members moved or migrated for various reasons - economic, social, or political.
Being an English name, the Herndon surname was common among the Anglo-Saxon tribes that ruled over Britain prior to the Norman Conquest. This suggests my ancestors were part of these influential tribes, possibly contributing to the rich tapestry of history during those tumultuous times.
Alongside, the iGENEA DNA test results divulged that my ancestors might have been part of the significant wave of migration from Britain to North America during the 17th and 18th centuries. This resonates with the historical records of numerous Herndons who have made substantial contributions across various fields in the United States since the early colonial period.
The Herndon surname does more than connect me to a lineage of English origin. It also paints a vivid picture of what my ancestors might have done and the remarkable trials they faced that shaped the freedoms and comforts I get to enjoy today. Whether they were directly involved in the creation of the social fabric or not, they definitely navigated it, bearing the brunt of some events, whilst prospering from others.
While I had always known that my surname held historical weight, the in-depth information derived from the iGENEA DNA test has broadened my perspective. It has further enhanced my sense of belonging while deepening my appreciation for the intricate and compelling path of my ancestral heritage.
K. Herndon