Genealogy by DNA is an exciting way to trace relatives from centuries ago. I had my DNA taken in late 2009 to see if there is any connection between the various Bramhills — in Liverpool, Epworth, Sheffield, Derbyshire and Wolverhampton.

So far, I have found matches with two Americans — a Bramel and a Brimhall — with whom I share an ancestor from more than 450 years ago. I've also been able to rule out any link with a Bramhall from Warrington, near Liverpool. I am encouraging other Bramhills and variants to take the test.

The new American link means that, for the first time, I have been able to relate to the 1903 history of the Bramhalls in north America, which you can download via the front page of this site. They believe their George Bramhall, who died in a "fite" with Indians in 1689, came from Yorkshire.

I am keen to see if Brambells, Brownbills and Bromilows are related to Bramhills. All three names appear in Huyton birth records from the late 1500s, and are likely to be corruptions of the same name.

Another intriguing revelation is the DNA connection with Carrington family members. There are so many Carringtons and Bramhills with similar paternal DNA that this is not coincidence. Looking back to the 1200s and 1300s, when surnames were being formed, it is likely that two brothers took the manors of Bromale and Carrington (both south of Manchester) and assumed the place names as a surname.

To take part, you will need DNA from a male Bramhill (or variant surname*). Please don't punch a policeman to get your DNA taken: the constabulary takes a dim view of trying to extend your family tree in this manner and are unlikely to share your DNA details with you afterwards. The best way is to test your DNA using one of the kits from Ancestry or DNA Heritage.

See my DNA haplotype here to see if you match. You should only contact me if you have an exact or close match on at least 20 markers AND the same or a similar surname.

Visit this group at Ancestry to see the latest progress on the Bramhill DNA project.

Whichever DNA company you use, you should also add your details to the open database at Ybase.org.

* Variant surnames include Bramhall, Brimhall, Rammell, Bramel, Bramill, Bromil, Bromilow, Brownbill, Bramble.