Genetic studies on Melungeon ancestry are well along.
They show overwhelming European ancestry, with a significant amount of African input. But the Native American contribution is extremely small -- a finding that of course is going to disappoint a lot of Melungeon descendants.
On the other hand, a significant amount of "Mediterranean" DNA has been found among some Melungeon families, which lends credence to the old claims by 19th century Melungeons that they were "Portugee."
For a pretty good reference, see:
Thanks for the link — interesting article.
Thank you...
My family on my father’s side claim Melungeon ancestry. It’s still a bit hushed with some of the family due to the fact that being Melungeon wasn’t always a good thing socially. There are quite a few physical characteristics that tend towards Melungeon, which are very evident with my brothers and I, as well as the rest of my father’s family.
My grandmother still talks about her Melungeon family. She really does have some interesting stories on living in deep Appalachia.