DNA testing can be a valuable tool in genealogical research, more so when combined with conventional paper-based research. While many of our Henderson kin are able to trace their ancestry back to the 18th or 19th century or perhaps earlier, very few have the resources to trace their lineage back to earlier days in Scotland.

With DNA testing, it is possible to confirm kinship between a modern day Henderson and one of the five original Henderson family groups documented in Scottish public record and traditional history including:

• MacEanruig in Glencoe (Argyll).
• Henry Gunn family in the lowlands of Caithness.
• Henderson’s in the Shetland Islands
• Henrysons who peopled the border country in Upper Liddesdale and the Middle Marches
• Dumfriesshire, where the family Henderson was established as a barony at Fordell.

Note: In the 17th century, some Henderson families migrated to Ireland as part of the Ulster Plantation. These were families of the Scottish lowlands and western islands (primarily, however other Henderson families may have been involved). For this reason, the Ulster Henderson’s will be treated as a subgroup populated by members of the original root families.