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Our FamilyTreeDNA surname project initially focused on tracing connections within the Cryan clan. Over time, I realized surnames evolve, especially as families migrate from their ancestral homeland. The project now includes surnames like Crean, Crane, Crehan, and Kneen, with more expected as additional men take the Y-chromosome test through FamilyTreeDNA. Surnames were often anglicized—for instance, Crean became Crane in some cases. One notable example is a Cryan family from Roscommon whose name was changed to Crean at Ellis Island in the early 1900s, a shift confirmed by Y-DNA testing. While 20th-century researchers suggested Cryans were a Roscommon variant of Crean (from Sligo) and Crehans a Galway variant, Y-DNA results from 60 men across these surnames show no shared paternal ancestor within the last 1,000 years, challenging the idea of a common origin.

The project now includes 60 men across 14 lineages, all sharing a common ancestor in ancient times, as all men are distantly related. I group testers into colored categories, with matches within the 1,000-year mark to align with surname use in Ireland. By recruiting enough participants, I’ve established surname use exceeding 400 years in four lineages. Using SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) from the BigY700 test, I can estimate genetic distances between families. Although surnames date back 1,000 years, most Irish people adopted them 400–600 years ago, a timeline confirmed by our Y-DNA results.

The Y-DNA test, which examines the male-inherited Y chromosome, is distinct from tests offered by Ancestry.com or 23andMe. It’s critical for our surname study, as it traces the same line as the patronymic naming system. Over 40 men have taken the comprehensive BigY700 test, which costs over $400, though two lower-cost tests are available for those on a budget. In less than two years, the project has amassed nearly $20,000 in spending—a testament to its incredible participation.

We’ve achieved major milestones in a short time. We tested the Y-DNA of the 16th-century Crean family from Sligo, confirming they don’t match other Creans, Crehans, or Cryans elsewhere in Ireland. We also tested the family of Tom the Explorer, motivating more Crean men to participate. With enough BigY700 testers, the project helps diaspora families connect to their ancestral parish, overcoming pre-Famine genealogical brick walls. Y-DNA testing groups men into lineages and can narrow their 19th-century origins by comparing genetic markers. It’s not safe to assume all Cryans or Creans are related; Y-DNA testing cuts through the confusion to pinpoint specific families and their locations.

An exciting development is underway: Caoimhghin Ó Croidheáin and I are seeking permission from National Monuments to exhume and test the 16th-century Crean remains at Sligo Abbey. The tomb was poorly resealed centuries ago, so our proposal includes restoring it to its original state. We’re optimistic about our application and will share updates soon.

If you’re curious about your family’s history over the past few centuries or their migrations, the Y-DNA test is a powerful tool. Join our project to explore your roots!

Michael