Both the FBI and United Kingdom are creating national DNA databases. Ironic how those organizations which made such excellent records of our early ancestors the military and the criminal justice system may again lead the way on this new frontier of genealogically-relevant information. The Diseases of Our Ancestors An additional area where genetic science may someday aid the genealogists is in the evaluation of the health of our ancestors. There has been controversy regarding subjecting the remains of famous individuals to modern medical techniques for diagnosing illnesses. Hickory rather than the mercury or lead poisoning long suspected.
Genetic analysis can also play a part in determining the physical well-being of our ancestors.
Many believe that Abraham Lincoln suffered from Marfan's Syndrome , a genetic disorder of the connective tissue . DNA analysis of Mary Todd Lincoln's blood-stained cloak worn to Ford's Theatre might be able to prove or disprove the theory. Obviously, the genealogists of the future with access to the information currently being stored in our modern DNA banks will be able to learn a great deal about our genetic health. Unfortunately, only a few lucky genealogists of our time may have a similar research venue open to them. In Victorian times, a tradition of saving a lock of hair from a recently passed away family member developed.