Society to discuss use of DNA

Let’s say your genealogical research has yielded no evidence of the existence of some of your ancestors.  You searched records far and wide and found tantalizing clues to their identities, but no documentation whatsoever.  They seem lost in the mists of some unknown mythical land.  What now?

Retired Davidson College Biology Professor John Williamson may be able to provide some answers in his presentation “Y-Chromosome DNA – A Powerful Genealogical Tool” at the next meeting of the Pee Dee Chapter of the South Carolina Genealogical Society. 

The Chapter will meet at 3 p.m. on June 14 in the Conference Center of Pee Dee Federal Savings & Loan in Marion.  Pee Dee Federal is at 106 E. Court Street, across the square from the Marion County Courthouse.  The public is invited. 

A native of Bladen County, North Carolina, John Williamson grew up on a tobacco farm.  He earned degrees from North Carolina State University, Cornell University, and the University of Georgia. 
His specialty was genetics and molecular biology.  He held research positions at Oak Ridge National Laboratories, the University of California – Riverside Department of Biology, and the University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Returning to his native state, he served as Professor of Biology at Davidson College, Davidson, N. C. from 1981 to 2000.  In his retirement he is using his training and experience to help others understand and use Y-DNA research in genealogy.