While I'm hesitant to say this because I'm probably risking expulsion from this list which is vital to my research, after watching many hours of programs about science(DNA) and Egyptian mummy "recovery", both "sides" have valid points. DNA can be compared from several thousand year old mummies BUT it takes highly specialized equipement, a controlled room, the necessary training AND a properly preserved mummy. What are the odds Scota was mummified in the ancient Egyptian manner? Didn't happen is my guess, so basically, you've got no DNA evidence. DNA can only be compared female to female, male to male (which is what has been stated already) because of where the genetic markers for comparison are placed, so unless you've got a daughter to compare with you've got nothing, again. You also have to take into account centuries and generations of genetic dilution, IF your family did descend, there is little or no chance of finding any kind of correlative evidence. You mentioned that you have the paper records, fantastic if you do, go for it but , 150- 200 generations of your family that go back 4000 years.. how did they survive? You actually have documents that date back to at least 1300 B.C.E.? That is a historians, genealogists and archealogists dream! You are very lucky. I wish I had that kind of evidence for my family then I wouldn't be missing my great-great grandfathers siblings, aunts, uncles, grandparents and other relatives. Well, I'm out. Hope I didn't cause too much of a stir. Kate _________________________________________________________________