How can 5 distinctly different Rutledge lines be related?

+1 vote
189 views
I have DNA matches to Rutledge families from distinctly different geographic regions/lines (it would appear) that trace back to c. 1700s in America. My line stayed in Co Tyrone until 1854. These include George Rutledge and Mary Nellie Gamble (Virginia to Charleston SC); John Russell Rutledge and Eleanor Caldwell (Bewcastle to Bucks Co, VA to Hanging Rock, SC); John Rutledge and Letitia Coulter (Huron Co, Ontario); Edward Rutledge to Baltimore MD 1777. Since these lines all appeared in America in the early 1700s and mine stayed in Co Tyrone until mid 1800s, it would appear someone stayed in Co Tyrone. But does anyone know of any possible connection these families may have had to each other? (Many match in the 10-12 cMs range so seems a bit far back to be 1700 for the relationship.) Thanks.
in Genealogy Help by Mary Welsh G2G Rookie (160 points)

1 Answer

+2 votes
I have been a Rutledge researcher for almost 40 years. I am now spending a lot of time proving Y-DNA matches claims. Please do not accept any tree without proving it yourself. Many of the early researchers made huge jumps with no proof and unfortunately, many modern novices have perpetuated the 'guesses' as fact.

I also have matches on multiple Rutledge lines in different geographic areas. I just solved one of these and the common ancestor was not a Rutledge at all but off a totally different line.  You will have to work such small matches looking at all ALL descendants and locations you can find. A Chromosome browser helps a lot.

My Rutledges are in Maryland in the early 1700s. There are men in Maryland in the 1600s, but I have no proof they tie in.
by Cindy Barber G2G Rookie (260 points)

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