Our October membership meeting took on a challenge many of us know firsthand: tracing Polish roots with DNA when so much seems stacked against us.
Eryk Jan Grzeszkowiak presented “Unlocking Polish Ancestry with DNA: Overcoming the Challenges of Underrepresented Populations,” a practical look at why Polish genetic genealogy is so difficult and what researchers can do about it. Distorted surnames, misspelled place names, records lost to wars and floods, and a Polish population still underrepresented in commercial DNA databases all make for a steep climb. Eryk showed members how to keep climbing.
The program covered:
- Recent advances in Polish research, including new record projects and technologies that are making once-hard-to-reach documents more accessible
- Clues hidden in the language, and why a Polish surname can look different from one record to the next
- Genetic genealogy strategies beyond “matches,” including how to read your results with a more critical eye
- Polish DNA in cold cases, where Eryk shared how his Polish research skills have helped investigators identify unknown individuals
Members had this to say:
“Best explanation of DNA use in genealogy that I have ever seen!”
“I wish I had heard this presentation years ago.”
“The speaker knew what he was talking about and was very informative.”
“One of the best presentations I’ve seen at a monthly meeting.”
“[He] increased [my] understanding of DNA use. [His presentation] built on Julie’s earlier DNA presentation.”
If you’ve been stuck on a Polish line, or have a DNA result that doesn’t quite add up, Eryk’s insights may be just what you need.
Eryk also noted that Polish cases are especially hard for forensic investigators. Members interested in learning more can visit the DNA Doe Project.
If you missed the meeting, or would like to revisit the strategies Eryk shared, the recording and handout are now available exclusively for members on our Meeting Recordings & Handouts page.
Not a member yet? Join the Polish Genealogical Society of New York State to access this recording and our full library of past presentations.