Welcome to the GEER DNA Project, the home base for individuals researching the paternal ancestry (father’s father) of their Geer (Gear/Geere/Gere etc.) surname.

While relatively new to family history application, DNA testing, when combined with traditional genealogical research, helps genealogists verify the direct male family line by quantifying the Y-chromosome which is passed virtually unchanged from father to son for hundreds of years. This numeric profile, when compared to other male descendants, can define the DNA of a common ancestor indicating a close or near close relationship. Results easily broaden the knowledge of one’s family and ancestral surname by confirming a family lineage or directing research efforts where researchers have faced a “brick wall.”

This quick and efficient test, saves time, prevents mistakes, and provides invaluable data that can be obtained in no other way. Note, however, that when results disprove a genetic link to others of the same surname, there can be many reasons for the difference - such as varying countries of origin, a flawed paper trail or unrecorded event like adoption, intentional name change or unmarried spouses. For these individuals, the knowledge can be exciting, as they find an aspect of their past which wasn't previously known - or devastating, if they are distressed with the result. No matter how DNA results come out - you're still a member of the Geer family. We hope you'll look at DNA as an exciting discovery and follow the results wherever they lead, just as a deed, will or paper record can add to your family history.