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Barker Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Barker Surname

The Barker surname is of English origin, historically meaning "a tanner of leather." This occupational name dates back to the early 13th century in England, when surnames often reflected a person's trade or societal role. Over time, Barker has become a notable surname with a rich history and has been borne by many individuals involved in various professions and endeavors worldwide.

As the centuries progressed, the Barker family name expanded across England, particularly in the Midlands and the North. This spread is attributed to the growth of family lines and increased societal mobility. By the 16th and 17th centuries, many Barkers emigrated to North America, establishing new family branches and contributing to the surname's global presence. This migration marked a significant shift in the Barker genealogy, as family records began to appear in the United States and later in countries like Canada and Australia.

YourRoots data highlights the Barker surname's origins in England, confirming its early 13th-century appearance. The dataset provides valuable insights into the Barker family tree's expansion during the 14th and 15th centuries, aligning with historical records of the surname's spread in England. Moreover, YourRoots complements existing knowledge by documenting the Barkers' migration to North America in the 17th century, which significantly influenced their genealogical history.

For researchers tracing the Barker family tree, YourRoots offers a comprehensive view of Barker genealogy and records. The data underscores the surname's enduring legacy, with a strong presence in the United States and connections to various countries worldwide. This rich historical tapestry offers a robust foundation for anyone delving into Barker genealogy and family history research.

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Tracing Your Barker Family Lineage

Origin of the Barker Family: Where does the Barker surname come from?

The earliest known appearance of the Barker surname is traced back to England during the early 13th century, marking a significant point in genealogical history. This initial record serves as a foundation for the family tree, indicating the beginnings of the Barker lineage in the British Isles. The surname likely originated from a geographical or occupational descriptor, as was common in that era, which connects the family to its roots and early societal roles.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Barker

In the following centuries, the Barker family began to spread throughout England, with a notable increase in family lines observed during the 14th and 15th centuries. Key regions where Barker family lines are documented include the Midlands and the North of England, areas that became pivotal in the establishment of various branches of the family tree. As time progressed, these families began to expand their influence and connections, intertwining with other families and establishing their legacies.

The evolution of the Barker family during these early centuries reflects a dynamic intermingling of lineages and the growth of family trees, as the name became more prominent in records. By the late 15th century, the surname had firmly established itself in English society, contributing to the tapestry of family histories that would evolve in subsequent periods.

Tracing the Barker Family Tree Through the Centuries

The surname Barker saw significant expansion across different regions as the centuries progressed, especially noticeable in the 16th and 17th centuries when migration patterns shifted. During the 17th century, many Barkers began to emigrate, primarily to North America, marking the start of a new chapter in the family's global history. This migration led to the establishment of numerous branches in the New World, particularly in the United States, where the surname would flourish.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the Barker family further dispersed, with records indicating a spread across various countries, including Canada and Australia, alongside continued growth in the United States. This broadening of the family tree reflects not only the mobility of the Barker descendants but also the intertwining of their lineage with diverse cultures and communities across the globe. The continuation of the surname into the modern era showcases a rich genealogy that links many individuals to their historic roots.

Where to Find Barker Genealogy Records Today

In the modern centuries, the Barker surname has maintained a strong presence, particularly in the United States, where it peaked in the early 20th century. The global spread of the surname has continued to evolve, with families rooted in various countries around the world, including England, Canada, and Australia. For those interested in exploring their own Barker genealogy, the YourRoots database

Famous People with Barker (and Their Family Tree)

Travis Barker

Travis Barker, born November 14, 1975, is a renowned American musician and drummer for Blink-182. Known for his versatility, Barker has collaborated with various artists across genres like hip hop, rock, and punk. Dubbed "punk's first superstar drummer" by Rolling Stone, Barker's career highlights include forming the rap rock group Transplants, co-founding +44, and participating in projects with Box Car Racer and Goldfinger. He survived a plane crash in 2008, released his solo album "Give the Drummer Some" in 2011, and established the clothing company Famous Stars and Straps. Barker's influence extends beyond music with ventures like LaSalle Records and DTA Records.

Bob Barker

Bob Barker, a legendary American media personality born on December 12, 1923, in Darrington, Washington, became a household name as the host of CBS's "The Price Is Right," the longest-running game show in North American television history, from 1972 to 2007. Before this, he hosted "Truth or Consequences" from 1956 to 1975. Beyond his hosting career, Barker was a passionate animal rights advocate, supporting organizations like PETA and the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. His career spanned over 50 years, making him a pop culture icon, with occasional appearances until 2015.

Barker was born to Matilda Valandra, a schoolteacher, and Byron John Barker, an electrical high line foreman. With a mother of non-Native descent and a father of one-quarter Sioux, Barker was one-eighth Sioux. He spent much of his youth on the Rosebud Indian Reservation and was a citizen of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, a heritage he proudly acknowledged throughout his life.

Clive Barker

Clive Barker, born on October 5, 1952, in Liverpool, is a renowned English writer, filmmaker, and visual artist, celebrated for his contributions to horror and fantasy genres. He gained prominence in the 1980s with his short story collection, "Books of Blood," and is known for creating the iconic Hellraiser series, which he also directed. Barker's works have been adapted into films and comic books, cementing his status as a horror icon. His creative endeavors include directing plays and showcasing his art in galleries. Influenced by literary greats like Edgar Allan Poe and William Blake, Barker continues to shape modern horror and fantasy literature.

Clive Barker was born to Joan Ruby (née Revill), a painter and school welfare officer, and Leonard Barker, a personnel director for an industrial relations firm. Raised in Liverpool, he pursued education at local schools before studying English and philosophy at the University of Liverpool.

Ronnie Barker

Ronnie Barker, an iconic English actor, comedian, and writer, is celebrated for his work in British comedy television. Known for his roles in "Porridge," "The Two Ronnies," and "Open All Hours," Barker began his career in Oxford amateur dramatics before achieving fame. His collaborations with Ronnie Corbett and his success in "The Frost Report" cemented his legacy. Barker also wrote comedy under pseudonyms like "Gerald Wiley" and won multiple BAFTA awards, becoming a beloved figure in light entertainment. He was appointed an OBE in 1978 and retired in 1987, later appearing in films in non-comic roles.

Born on 25 September 1929, Ronnie Barker was the only son of Leonard William Barker and Edith Eleanor (née Carter) in Bedford. His father worked for Shell-Mex, causing the family to move to Cowley, Oxfordshire. Barker had two sisters, Vera and Eileen, and enjoyed a happy childhood filled with theatre and music. His early exposure to acting and his education at the City of Oxford High School for Boys fostered his love for performance, leading him eventually to pursue a career in acting despite his father's lack of support.

Ma Barker

Ma Barker, born Arizona Donnie Clark, was a notorious figure during the "public enemy era" as the matriarch of the infamous Barker–Karpis Gang. She gained a reputation, partly attributed to J. Edgar Hoover's allegations, as a ruthless crime leader orchestrating her sons' criminal activities. Despite such claims, many who knew her insisted she played no actual criminal role. Her notoriety, however, fueled media and public interest, leading to her depiction as a monstrous mother in various cultural portrayals.

Born in Ash Grove, Missouri, Ma Barker was the daughter of John and Emaline Clark. She married George Barker, with whom she had four sons: Herman, Lloyd, Arthur, and Fred. The family struggled with financial instability, and her sons quickly turned to crime, leading to their infamous criminal careers.

Barker Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Barker" is of English origin and means "a tanner of leather." This occupational surname has been borne by various notable individuals across different fields, including politics, sports, and the arts.

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Barker

We’ve analyzed YourRoots tree and records data to uncover where genealogists are finding key sources such as census, birth certificates, marriage records, and obituaries for the Barker family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Barker surname to learn more.