Unraveling the Bendel Legacy: My Journey with iGENEA DNA Analysis
Family name Bendel
Discovering the historical tapestry woven by my ancestors for my surname 'Bendel' was made possible by the iGENEA DNA analysis. Their flawless process and comprehensive reporting took me through centuries-old pages of history, tracing my roots back to southern Germany, from the sanctified origins of the Latin name 'Benedictus' to the industrious participation of my ancestors in the Swabian cloth industry. This investigation has unraveled the story of my name, amplifying my comprehending of my identity.
Embarking on the enchanting journey of DNA analysis at iGENEA has provided me with a new dimension of understanding my familial roots, like piecing together fragments of a puzzle. This is particularly relevant to my family name 'Bendel,' which has always been shrouded in curiosity and mystery. The test offered by iGENEA unlocked an unexplored comprehension of the history and lineage of my surname.
Utilizing the iGENEA basic test, which adequately traced my paternal lineage, I sent my DNA sample. The entire process worked seamlessly from start to finish. After a couple of weeks, I was granted access to a comprehensive report elucidating my ancestral history, which not only included an elaborate tree but also maps and a detailed history of migration.
The origins of my surname 'Bendel' were expounded to be distinctly German, with a prevalence in Swabia, located in southern Germany. It was fascinating to discover that my surname was a derivative of Benedictus, an ancient Latin name, which signified 'blessed' or 'a blessing.' It was ‘Benedict’ in English and ‘Benedikt’ in German, eventually shortening to ‘Bendel’ in an effort to germanize and simplify it.
I learned that my forebears primarily engaged in craftwork and light industry in Swabia around the 15th and 16th centuries. I was in absolute awe when discovering that my ancestors had been key contributors to the thriving wool and cloth industry of that period, their labor etching our family name in local history.
Also, noteworthy was the evolution of my surname, 'Bendel.' It metamorphosed over the centuries, reflecting societal changes and varying linguistic trends. From a symbol of sanctity, as 'Benedictus,' to a community identifier, as ‘Bendel’, the rich tapestry of my name's history I discovered was spellbinding.
This exploration has injected a newfound pride in my family name, an appreciation for the brave, industrious ancestors, whose efforts filled our familial tome, and a curiosity to know more about those who held the Bendel name before me. The iGENEA DNA analysis has thoroughly deepened my cognizance of my lineage, and my identity and I am all the more grateful for it.
M. Bendel