This project is a study for all variations of the Whitehead, Whited or Whitted surnames.

The project was started in November of 2003 by David Whitehead and has been managed by Randy Whited since 2006. We currently have 108 participants, 76 of whom have a 12-marker or greater Y-DNA test. If you have ANY questions concerning this surname project, please feel free to e-mail the coordinator. FTDNA also has a comprehensive learning center: https://www.familytreedna.com/learn/ 

How it works

Each participant receives a kit, which contains instructions and materials allowing him to swab his cheek for DNA, preserve it, and return it to FamilyTreeDNA. The lab then analyzes the DNA found on the Y-chromosome. This DNA is passed down (almost) unaltered from father to son. Therefore, those who share a large percentage of "markers" share a male ancestor within a certain number of generations (depending on how many and the type of test).

Which test?

Due to the nature of its father-son inheritance, YDNA is the cornerstone of surnames studies. The 37 marker YDNA test is the most economical and still provides enough detail to determine relationships within a genealogical time frame. YDNA tests with more markers can further distinguish between branches of a family. Since FTDNA preserves (with the donor’s permission) some of the original sample, upgrades to more markers may be ordered at a later date.

There is also a Surname Project General Fund which allows anyone to contribute funds to offset the expense of a test, with the use of the donation either left to the discretion of the group administrator, or earmarked for a specific test. 

Who should participate?

Any male with a variant of the Whitehead/Whitted/Whited surname. Individuals that are female or have a female between themselves and their Whitehead ancestor would not be suitable participants. Uncles, brothers, cousins or others that are male Whiteheads can serve as donors in those cases.

It is highly encouraged that each participant submit their lineage to their oldest known Whitehead ancestor. Itis the combination of that information with the YDNA results that enables a surname project to determine the relationships within and between the contributors.

Thank you for your participation and interest,

Randy Whited
FTDNA Whitehead Surname Project Coordinator