Chapter 1: Family Tree Fascinations

My passion for genealogy drives me to explore my ancestry, uncovering intriguing connections to well-known figures. It's thrilling to find out that Mark Twain is my eighth cousin! Although the relation may seem distant, it’s particularly exciting for a writer like me to be linked to other literary talents.

In addition to Twain, my family tree boasts connections to:

• Henry David Thoreau (7th cousin), celebrated for Walden
• Agatha Christie (8th cousin), renowned for her mystery novels
• Emily Dickinson (7th cousin), famous for her poetry
• Edgar Allan Poe (8th cousin), author of The Raven
• T.S. Eliot (9th cousin), poet and playwright
• Charlotte Brontë (9th cousin), famous for Jane Eyre

Discovering Notable Ancestors

To explore your own famous connections, visit FamilySearch. The Famous Relatives tool searches the FamilySearch Family Tree for potential links to historical figures. To use this feature, you need a FamilySearch account (which is free) with at least four generations filled out. For optimal results, aim to complete eight generations or more.

Learn more about your family’s genetic background and receive a 15% discount on DNA tests!

Generational Links and Genetics

If you trace your lineage back about eight generations, do you still retain genetic links to those ancestors? The answer is yes. While genealogically connected, your genetic ties diminish over generations. After eight generations, the amount of DNA inherited from your ancestors significantly decreases. By the time you reach sixteen generations back, you inherit DNA from only about 2% of your ancestors.

I was thrilled to discover my connection to General Seth Pomeroy, my seventh-generation ancestor.

Seth Pomeroy: A Historically Overlooked Figure

Though not widely recognized today, Pomeroy played a role in history comparable to that of George Washington. My family tree includes notable figures such as:

• President John Adams (7 generations)
• President Ulysses Grant (5 generations)
• President Theodore Roosevelt (5 generations)
• President Lyndon B. Johnson (3 generations)
• Inventor Thomas Edison (5 generations)
• The Wright Brothers (4 generations)
• Emily Dickinson (4 generations)
• Agatha Christie (3 generations)
• Walt Disney (3 generations)

Attraction to Historical Figures: A Personal Connection?

I believe there’s a connection. During high school, I enrolled in a Medieval art class without knowing about my royal English ancestry. My interest in England and its castles led me to dress as Queen Victoria for a class project, complete with a gown made by my grandmother. Years later, I learned about my connection to Princess Diana and found out Queen Victoria is my seventh cousin.

Influences on Historical Affinities

Genetics may influence certain traits and preferences, leading individuals to feel drawn to specific historical figures. Cultural and social contexts also shape who we admire. Personal experiences, education, and individual psychology contribute to our fascination with particular historical icons. Lastly, the historical significance of these figures can impact their legacy and how they resonate with future generations.

Generation Gaps in My Family

My husband's family showcases significant generational gaps. His grandfather Arthur was born in 1898, while his father was born in the 1850s. My husband, who was born in 1973, fondly remembers his grandfather, who passed away in 1983.

My Family's Legacy

My Ukrainian grandfather, Cyrus, was born in 1906 and lived through fascinating times, including the Titanic disaster. I regret not learning more about his life before he passed in 1992. He was a bootlegger, trolley driver, and even ice skated on the Erie Canal. My Italian grandmother Elsie was born in 1914 but passed away from lung cancer when I was just two, leaving me without memories of her.

On my mother’s side, the generational structure is more typical, with grandparents born in the 1920s. I did have the chance to know my great-grandfather, who was born in 1893 and lived to be 101. He worked at General Electric and owned a dairy farm while being an Odd Fellows member.

The Connection to John Tyler’s Legacy

Interestingly, the grandsons of President John Tyler, who took office from 1841 to 1845, are still alive. This remarkable continuity spans nearly the entire history of the United States.

Engaging with Historical Connections

Are you connected to anyone famous? I would love to hear your stories—please leave a comment!

The video titled "Mark Twain appears in the records! #ancestry #shorts" explores intriguing genealogical connections and highlights the excitement of tracing one's ancestry.