This is the second of our dual blog posts regarding current DNA testing partners. Please also check out our Partner Profile on YSEQ.
Family Tree DNA (FTDNA) is a modern powerhouse for DNA testing – Autosomal (atDNA), mtDNA, and yDNA. Its own website front page boasts, “We have the most comprehensive Y chromosome, autosomal, and mitochondrial ancestry DNA database for genetic genealogists!”[1] FTDNA circa 2006 received major contributions from familiar folks when Thomas & Astrid Krahn (see Partner Profile on YSEQ) sold the assets of their company DNA-Fingerprint and opened the Genomics Research Center in Houston, TX.[2] FamilyTreeDNA was founded by Bennett Greenspan (who today serves as President & CEO), Max Blankfeld and Jim Warren.[2]
The PSHG relies on FTDNA’s Y-111 STR test to place members into family groups and to confirm claims made by traditional genealogy. By analyzing the Y-111 STR results, group administrators can help to verify from which of Peter’s three sons (Peter Jr., John, or James) a member descends. The test also reveals mutations which can occur naturally through the family group generations. Click to follow to the PSHG at FTNDA group results.
FTNDA offers lesser marker Y-STR tests (12, 37, 67), but these do not provide enough marker information to be useful to the PSHG. The Y-STR test will unlock Certified Y-STR Results, Matches, Ancestral & Haplogroup Origins, Haplotree & SNPs data, and Maps related to Matches, Migration, and SNPs.[1]. A similar set of tools can be unlocked by purchasing a Mitochondrial (mtDNA) test to trace one’s maternal lineage. Family Finder is the Autosomal (atDNA) product comparable to AncestryDNA. Tools available with this product are: Matches, Chromosome Browser, Linked Relationship, myOrigins, and ancientOrigins. Returning to Y-DNA products, the Big Y test can provide a detailed SNP analysis and Matches. When analyzed by a project group such as R1b-U106, one can identify Singleton SNPs which can be further tested and named.
Family Tree DNA’s tests may appear to be expensive to the novice; however, genetic genealogists and DNA hobby enthusiasts appreciate the testing options and relative (compared to historical capabilities and prices) low cost. Keep an eye out for sales (Summer & Winter) and take advantage.
References:
[1] https://www.familytreedna.com/
[2] https://isogg.org/wiki/Family_Tree_DNA
Peter Staple Heritage Group (PSHG) 
Hi Brian,
Another great article!
The only suggestion I have is that – we do not have enough family branches tested to be sure we can tell if a person descends from Peter Jr, John or James. The goal of Y111 depends on the number of testers we have from different family branches and also tests within the same family branch which show certain mutations that are shared which gives us a match at certain Y-STR values for use in proving that line.
The words “can verify” could be – “can help to verify”
Art
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Thanks for the comments! I’ve updated the wording based on your recommendation.
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