Researchers seek DNA link to Lost Colony

ROANOKE ISLAND, N.C. (AP) -- Researchers say they may be able to use DNA to uncover the fate of the Lost Colony.

Using genealogy, deeds and historical narratives, researchers have compiled 168 surnames that they believe may have connections to the Lost Colony.

Fred Willard is director of the Lost Colony Center for Science and Research. Willard thinks some colonists migrated inland. Researchers hope to test cheek swabs of possible ancestors.

While DNA won't make any immediate connections beyond living relatives, the samples can provide clues to a person's country of origin and other shared family traits. Genealogy will have to fill in the blanks.

The owner of a private DNA analysis company helping in the research, Roberta Estes says the group may later seek to test American Indian remains or the colonists' known relatives who remained in England.

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