Balfour Family Genealogy & History

Eric Salter Balfour, born April 24, 1977, is a versatile American actor best known for his roles in popular TV series and films, including Milo Pressman in "24," Duke Crocker in "Haven," and Gabriel Dimas in "Six Feet Under." He made his film debut in the Lifetime movie "No One Would Tell" and gained recognition for his performances in "What Women Want" and "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre." Balfour's diverse career spans across various genres, showcasing his talent in both drama and thrillers. His notable film credits also include "Skyline" and "Backcountry," while he has made guest appearances in shows like "Monk" and "The O.C."

Eric Balfour was born into a Jewish family in Los Angeles, California. His father, David Balfour, is a chiropractor, and his mother, Sharon Salter, works as a marriage and family counselor. He grew up in a creative household alongside his younger sister, often visiting the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California, which likely influenced his artistic pursuits.

Arthur James Balfour, 1st Earl of Balfour, was a prominent British statesman and Conservative politician who served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1902 to 1905. Known for issuing the Balfour Declaration in 1917, he played a key role in advocating for a Jewish homeland in Palestine. Balfour led the Conservative Party in the House of Commons and was instrumental in modernizing the British education system through the Education Act 1902. Despite his achievements, his political career faced challenges, including opposition to Irish Home Rule and public discontent over the Boer War. He remained active in politics until his death in 1930, having never married.

Born at Whittingehame House, East Lothian, Scotland, Arthur Balfour was the eldest son of James Maitland Balfour, a Scottish MP, and Lady Blanche Gascoyne-Cecil. His mother belonged to the Cecil family, descended from Robert Cecil, 1st Earl of Salisbury, making Balfour a member of a politically influential lineage. His godfather was the Duke of Wellington. Balfour was the eldest of eight siblings, with a notable younger brother, Francis Maitland Balfour, who became a Cambridge embryologist.

Grant Robert Balfour, an Australian former professional baseball relief pitcher, made a significant impact in Major League Baseball (MLB) with teams like the Minnesota Twins, Milwaukee Brewers, Tampa Bay Devil Rays/Rays, and Oakland Athletics. Notably, he holds the Oakland Athletics record for consecutive saves at 44 and ranks second all-time in saves and strikeouts among Australian MLB pitchers. Balfour's fiery presence on the mound and his ability to close games made him a standout, particularly during his tenure with the Rays and Athletics, where he consistently delivered strong performances.

Lady Evelyn Barbara Balfour (1898–1990) was a pioneering figure in organic farming, co-founding the Soil Association and authoring the influential book "The Living Soil." A graduate in agriculture from the University of Reading, she launched the landmark Haughley Experiment, the first scientific comparison of organic versus chemical farming. Her leadership and advocacy in sustainable agriculture significantly shaped the organic movement, despite the UK government's focus on mechanized farming. Her work remains a cornerstone in organic agriculture discussions and practices.

Born in London, Lady Balfour was the daughter of Gerald, 2nd Earl of Balfour, and Lady Elizabeth Bulwer-Lytton, linking her to British aristocracy. Her uncle was Arthur J. Balfour, a former prime minister, providing her with a notable family background.