I am interested in exploring the relationships between the various American Kleopfer/Kloepfer families using DNA technology. I recently had my DNA tested and compared with the Iowa Kleopfers (descendants of Gottlieb Kleopfer born 1816 - family #7 at Klöpfer, Kloepfer and Kleopfer). The results confirmed that we share a common ancestor a few generations prior to our respective emigrant ancestors.
DNA comparison is a fascinating way to further explore our ancestral roots and family connections. It also gives us information on our "deep ancestry". For example my Kleopfer line and line #7 belong to haplogroup E3b which migrated out of eastern Africa some 80,000 years ago and helped spread agriculture throughout Europe.
The testing that was done is specific for the Y-chromosome which is only passed on from male to male. Therefore in order to determine the relationship between your Kleopfer/Kloepfer ancestor and other Kleopfer/Kloepfer families we need to test the DNA of a male Kleopfer descendant. We have been using Ancestry.com as our testing organization. They use Sorenson Genomics which is one of the most prestigious labs for DNA testing. The test is quite easy and merely requires swabs from inside of the mouth. It does cost about $150. See DNA Testing by Ancestry.com reveals Ancestry and Genealogy for more information.
Please let me know if you or another male Kleopfer descendant of your family can participate in this study. Contact rdkone@aol.com.
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