An Odyssey into my Roots: Revealing Mayo's Celtic Origins through iGENEA DNA Test
Family name Mayo
Unraveling my roots by using the iGENEA DNA Test, I embarked on an intriguing journey into the historical and cultural origins of my surname, Mayo. This quest led me back to the ancient Celtic tribes, behind the vast seas and the lush Irish landscapes. This peep into my lineage has provided an enriching sense of identity, acknowledging my connection with a resilient and adventurous ancestral lineage.
As a curious soul eager to unravel the origins of my roots, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery using the iGENEA DNA test. My quest centered around the historical and cultural significance of my surname: Mayo. The journey led me back thousands of years ago, revealing profound connections that were both fascinating and enlightening.
The iGENEA test traced my lineage back to the Celtic tribes, specifically the Iberians that extensively inundated the eastern and southern coasts of Ireland from about the 6th to 1st century BC. These renowned seafaring heroes ventured far and wide from their homelands, perhaps in search of new territories.
My surname Mayo, I learned, bears strong Irish roots. It’s a derivative of the Irish term "Maigh Eo," which translates to "land of the yew trees." The name originally designated for a county in the western part of Ireland. This revelation sparked intrigue, prompting a desire to immerse myself more into Irish culture, with its vibrant traditions and enriching folklore.
Moreover, Irish culture is imbued with histories of courage, resilience, and unyielding spirit, seen in their battle against numerous invasions and famines. With my surname linking me to this indomitable race, I was instilled with a newfound respect for my resilient and adventurous ancestors.
What's more fascinating is the transmission of the Mayo surname over generations. Many of its bearers, I discovered, were likely descendants of a Gaelic clan settling in County Mayo. Some later migrated to other places due to historical events like the Anglo-Irish conflict and the Great Famine in the 19th century, spreading the Mayo name globally.
Understanding my lineage through the iGENEA DNA test has given me a profound sense of my identity. I am the product of the resilience and bravery of ancient Celtic tribes, and of the ancient Iberian mariners setting sail into the unknown. It's an extraordinary realization that leaves me in awe, and with a greater appreciation for the strength that lies inherently in my name - Mayo.
P. Mayo