Margaret Gephart DNA Proof
When I began exploring DNA as a genealogical tool, I quickly realized it was more than just a list of matches and centimorgan numbers. It was a new science—one that required learning how to sort data, test hypotheses, and interpret results responsibly. One of my first major goals was to apply DNA methods to the longstanding question of Margaret Gephart’s parents.
The Challenge
DNA evidence holds enormous potential, but it can easily be misunderstood. To be useful, it must be:
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Grouped into clusters that reveal shared ancestral lines.
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Confirmed through triangulation to show that the same DNA is passed down consistently.
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Interpreted alongside records, never in isolation.
The Gebhart family’s history also includes pedigree collapse, where multiple lines trace back to the same ancestors. This added another layer of complexity to the DNA analysis.
Learning the Science
This project became less about finding one quick answer and more about learning how to use the science well. Along the way, I learned how to:
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Interpret autosomal DNA matches from different testing companies (AncestryDNA, MyHeritage, FTDNA, GEDmatch).
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Use cluster analysis to identify DNA groups consistent with extended Gebhart descendants.
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Apply triangulation to confirm shared DNA segments across multiple descendants.
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Integrate genetic and documentary evidence so that DNA became one more reliable tool in the genealogist’s toolbox.
A Note on Publication
The complete proof argument addressing the question of Margaret Gephart’s parents through triangulated DNA evidence has been developed in detail. To preserve originality, the detailed argument and its conclusions are not reproduced here. A version is being prepared for submission to a scholarly publication.
Why It Matters
For me, this project was a turning point. It showed me that DNA is not a shortcut to answers, but a science to be learned, tested, and carefully applied. By working through clusters, triangulation, and correlation, I gained both a deeper confidence in using DNA and a stronger foundation for genealogical proof.
👉 Contact me to learn how DNA analysis can help confirm your family connections.