Tales of the Past: Exploring the Cultural and Historical Roots of the Surname Hood through iGENEA DNA Test
Family name Hood
Deepening my understanding of my family history and roots, I decided to take an iGENEA DNA test, revealing striking details about my heritage. The cultural and historical treasure trove included the origin of my surname, Hood, tracing back to Medieval England, with potential links to the legendary Robin Hood or perhaps a monk’s clothing style. It also shed light on possible Scottish ties, making it an unsurpassably enlightening experience.
As an ardent enthusiast in genealogy and ancestry, I was overjoyed with my decision to take the iGENEA DNA test. The result was an awe-inspiring revelation - I discovered that my roots trace back to an intricate blend of cultures and heritage. Even more fascinating was the historical and cultural origin of my surname, Hood.
The surname Hood bears an Anglo-Saxon origin, going back to early Middle Ages England. It emerged during a period when families began adopting surnames as a means to distinguish themselves from others. Primarily, the name Hood served as a nickname for someone who often wore a hood, derived from the Old English word ‘hod’. It was also very common in the Middle Ages for people to be known by characteristics or toponyms, such as clothing, profession, or location, hence the surname's relevance.
Interestingly, the name Hood was likely associated with the medieval craft of making hooded garments or might have been linked to someone in a profession requiring the wearing of a hood, perhaps a monk or a cleric. However, the history of my surname doesn’t stop there. Some early records suggest that it could also trace back to Robin Hood, the legendary English outlaw who allegedly was a skilled archer and swordsman. This idea is still under debate among historians.
Exploring deeper into my Scottish roots, the name Hood is also associated with the Scottish Clan Hood, an ancient and distinguished family whose members played significant roles throughout Scotland's history. This provided a sense of camaraderie and belonging, making me appreciate my heritage even more.
Taking the iGENEA DNA test became an educational journey, opening up a window into the past. Capturing moments of humanity from centuries ago, it offered an impactful sense of connection to these earlier people, their cultures, and lifestyles. As the saying goes, our past informs our present. Hence, this profound insight into my cultural and historical roots has certainly deepened my understanding of who I am today.
C. Hood