Haplogroup R1b1b2a1a1d1

I tested to belong to Haplogroup R1b1b2a1a1d1.

Subclade R1b1b2a1a1d1* (as named by 23andMe) or R1b1a2a1a1a4 (per FTDNA) is a paternal (male) lineage linked to regions once submerged by the North Sea—historically known as parts of Doggerland—thus tracing deep ancestry in northwestern Europe.

Individuals in R1b1b2a1a1d1 belong to the broader branch R1b1b2a1a1d, defined by testing positive for L47. In genetic terms, this subclade falls under the larger umbrella of R1b-U106 (L48), often associated with early Germanic-speaking populations, including Anglo-Saxons who settled in Britain after the Roman withdrawal in the fifth century AD. There are references to certain Frisians (sometimes called “Frisiavones”) who may have traveled with the Roman XX Legion into Britain, although historians still debate the specifics.

The designation of R1b1b2a1a1d1 has been confirmed via SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) tests showing characteristic mutations U106, L48, and L47. The presence of L47, located immediately downstream of L48, refines the classification: Those testing positive for L48 but negative for all other subclade markers were traditionally assigned to R1b1b2a1a1d. With the discovery of L47, they now fall under R1b1b2a1a1d1.

Cloud family of Wiltshire, England

Another notable lineage belongs to William Cloud (b. 1502) of Wiltshire, England, cited as the earliest-known common ancestor for certain R1b1b2a1a1d1* subclades. Historical records from the reign of Edward III (1327–1377) mention a Robert atte Cloude in Somerset, alongside references to a Richard Clode. Descendants, including William Acree of Hanover County, Virginia—sometimes called the “Virginia Acrees”—reportedly emigrated to North America in 1682 with William Penn.

Horobin family of Staffordshire, England

The Horobin family also reports a lineage extending to the 1430s in Staffordshire, England. Their DNA results connect them to R1b1b2a1a1d1.

Wiebe family of Friesland, Netherlands

Wiebe is notably common among Dutch Anabaptists (often Mennonites) who originated in the Netherlands or Friesland. In the 16th and 17th centuries, many fled religious persecution, initially relocating to areas in Prussia (particularly the Vistula Delta),

In at least 16 independently tested Wiebe families, the males belong to R1b1b2a1a1d1*.

Mennonite (Olędrzy) in Poland

A common way that northwestern European paternal lines arrived in Poland (especially along the Vistula) involves the Dutch or Frisian Mennonite communities, commonly referred to in Polish as Olędrzy (sometimes spelled “Olendrzy”). In the 16th century, Dutch and Frisian Anabaptists came to the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, seeking religious tolerance and farmland. They established thriving agricultural villages in areas prone to flooding, especially along the Vistula River basin, near Włocławek and broader Pomerania (northwestern Poland).

The Anabaptist movement emerged in the early 16th century during the broader Protestant Reformation in Europe. Opponents used the term “Anabaptist” (from the Greek ana, meaning “again”) to label those who “re-baptized” adults who had already been baptized as infants in Catholic or Protestant churches. Anabaptists themselves often referred to their communities simply as “Brethren.” Many Anabaptist groups stress a clear division between the church and broader secular society. This principle can manifest in simple living, distinct clothing, and avoidance of civic or military entanglements. Many Anabaptists embrace pacifist teachings and refuse to bear arms. Early Anabaptists generally taught that Christians should not participate in warfare or violence of any kind. Modern denominations, such as the Mennonites and Amish, still uphold pacifist doctrines.

Viking-Age Wolin, Poland: a melting pot theory

Wolin (Jomsborg) History:
During the early Middle Ages (roughly the 8th–11th centuries), Wolin was an important trading and cultural hub on the southern Baltic coast. Various sources, including archaeological findings, indicate a diverse population—Slavs, Vikings (often Danish), and possibly other Germanic groups like Frisians or Saxons converged there for trade, crafts, and maritime activities.

Join the Discussion

If you belong to this subclade and know more about your ancestors’ place of origin, feel free to reach out or join our dedicated Facebook group:

R1b1b2a1a1d1 Group

It’s a space for sharing genealogical discoveries, discussing family histories, and helping one another understand how these deep paternal roots shape our broader heritage.


Note: Genetic genealogy is an ever-evolving field. For the most accurate, up-to-date information, consult recognized DNA testing databases, participate in ongoing studies, or connect with specialized researchers.