Today there are estimated to be approximately 100,000 Dillons across the world; contrary to what many believe, the Dillon surname is not solely an Irish name and is not of a single origin. For example, although many believe that all Irish Dillons are descended from the Anglo-Norman invader Sir Henry de Leon who came to Ireland with the Normans in the 12th century this is not the case. Whilst some Dillons are indeed descendants of Sir Henry de Leon the surname has multiple unrelated origins with origins from outside Ireland such as France for example and this is supported by the findings to date of this DNA project.
Unfortunately, Irish family history research is often difficult, particularly when attempting to research prior to the 19th century due to many crucial records having been destroyed. In the absence of conventional records DNA has a crucial role to play in research Irish surnames such as the Dillons and enable modern day Dillons to discover their Dillon ancestry and cousins.
To find out more and how to get DNA tested please visit our website (dillondna.blogspot.co.uk) and Facebook page (facebook.com/dillondnaproject)
My own Dillons lived in Manchester after coming over from Ireland and it would be great to get some Manchester Dillons to join our project, we currently have 100 members.
If anyone has any questions or queries feel free to get in touch.