DNA evidence reinforces Thomas Jefferson paternity of Sally Hemings' children

New genetic evidence has reinforced the long-standing historical conclusion that Thomas Jefferson fathered children with Sally Hemings, an enslaved woman. The findings stem from research detailed in anthropologist Richard Kurin’s book, ‘History by a Hair,’ which analyzes biological material, including hair strands, linked to Jefferson.

Researchers used genetic comparisons to model various paternity scenarios involving Jefferson and his brother, Randolph. The analysis determined that the probability of Jefferson not being the father of Madison or Eston Hemings was less than one in 1,000.

The Thomas Jefferson Foundation, which operates Monticello, stated that these findings reinforce rather than rewrite the existing historical record. The foundation noted that the study offers an opportunity to reflect on how historical knowledge is acquired and provides a fuller picture of Jefferson and the world of Monticello.