We are starting a Bunker surname project testing the DNA of males to see if they are related. The Y chromosome follows down the male line intact from father to son for about 500 generations. By testing the Y chromosome you can see if you are related to another Bunker male and how far back your most recent common ancestor is. The records of the ancestors of James Bunker of Dover, NH and Devonshire, England have not been found. We do not know if he was related to the two George Bunkers that came to the United States in the 1600's. Through DNA testing we can find out. Both the George's descend from Roger Bunker of Tingrith, England, in the 1400's. If we get two descendants of Roger and two descendants of James tested we can establish a DNA fingerprint for those Bunker families. By comparing the DNA of a descendant of Roger with one of James' descendants we would be able to see if they are related. If we do this as a group of at least 6 men, the cost is $99 plus postage for the test. The company sends a test kit with cotton swabs in it. The man rubs the cotton swabs inside his cheek, puts them in an envelope and mails them back. The group administrator receives the results, which are put in the databank and sent to the participant. It is not planned at this time to reveal the specific markers identified to anyone except the administrator and the individual participant. However, if someone in the future wishes to have their DNA tested we will compare it with our established lines and confirm or deny a relationship with our Bunkers. This is fascinating. Imagine being assured that you are related to other Bunkers all over the world. Imagine that you are adopted and do not know for sure if you are a Bunker until we can tell you that your DNA matches ours. It is possible to determine how many generations back your most recent common ancestor is. An article should be appearing in the Bunker Banner giving more information about this project. If any male born with the name of Bunker wishes to participate in this test, please contact me. For information about the organization that will be doing the testing go to their website <http://www.familytreedna.com> I spoke personally with the owner of this company at the FGS conference and have been in contact with him since. Let me know if you are interested or have a male member in your family that would be interested. Bette