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Sign up freeBoston Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Boston Surname
The Boston surname has its origins in England, where it first appeared in the early 15th century. Derived from geographic locations or landmarks, the name likely reflects the family's deep connections to their local environment. Over the centuries, the Boston surname has woven itself into the rich tapestry of English heritage, forming a distinct lineage that can be traced through various historical records.
As the centuries progressed, the Boston family name spread beyond its initial English roots. By the 18th century, members of the Boston family had begun migrating to the United States, establishing a significant presence in North America. This migration contributed to the diversification of the Boston family tree, as families adapted to new cultural and geographical landscapes in their adopted homeland.
According to insights from the YourRoots dataset, the Boston surname has a well-documented history, with records confirming its presence in England since the 15th century. The data highlights how the surname expanded within England during the 16th century before crossing the ocean to the United States in the 18th century. This migration pattern is a testament to the Boston family's resilience and adaptability, as they navigated new opportunities across the globe.
For those interested in exploring the Boston genealogy further, YourRoots offers a wealth of records that illuminate the family's global journey. By accessing Boston records, researchers can uncover the historical paths and connections that have shaped the Boston family tree over the centuries.
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tBthomas BostonBirth: 1826 – 1908 Knowle, Warwickshire, EnglandDeath: 1826 – 1908 Woolwich, Kent, EnglandFather: Daniel BostonMother: Mary WhitakerReliability Score: CtBthomas BostonBirth: 1826 – 1908 Knowle, Warwickshire, EnglandDeath: 1826 – 1908 Woolwich, Kent, EnglandFather: Daniel BostonMother: Mary WhitakerReliability Score: C
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SBSarah BostonBirth: 1822 – 1899 Pavenham, BedfordshireDeath: 1822 – 1899 Poplar Reg. District aged 77 yearsFather: James BostonMother: Mary TearReliability Score: CSBSarah BostonBirth: 1822 – 1899 Pavenham, BedfordshireDeath: 1822 – 1899 Poplar Reg. District aged 77 yearsFather: James BostonMother: Mary TearReliability Score: C
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EBEdith Elsie BostonBirth: 1907 – 1980 Brunswick, Melbourne, Victoria, AustraliaDeath: 1907 – 1980 Leongatha, Victoria, AustraliaFather: Arhtur Lincoln BostonMother: Sarah Jane TrembathReliability Score: N/AEBEdith Elsie BostonBirth: 1907 – 1980 Brunswick, Melbourne, Victoria, AustraliaDeath: 1907 – 1980 Leongatha, Victoria, AustraliaFather: Arhtur Lincoln BostonMother: Sarah Jane TrembathReliability Score: N/A
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WBWilliam BostonBirth: 1812 – 1889 Pavenham, BedfordshireDeath: 1812 – 1889 Pavenham, Bedfordshire aged 78 yearsFather: James BostonMother: Mary TearReliability Score: CWBWilliam BostonBirth: 1812 – 1889 Pavenham, BedfordshireDeath: 1812 – 1889 Pavenham, Bedfordshire aged 78 yearsFather: James BostonMother: Mary TearReliability Score: C
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MBMinnie Bell BOSTONBirth: 1887 – 1975 TennesseeDeath: 1887 – 1975 Carthage, Smith, Tennessee, United States of AmericaFather: Christian BOSTONMother: Martha F HessonReliability Score: AMBMinnie Bell BOSTONBirth: 1887 – 1975 TennesseeDeath: 1887 – 1975 Carthage, Smith, Tennessee, United States of AmericaFather: Christian BOSTONMother: Martha F HessonReliability Score: A
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ABArthur Edmund BostonBirth: 1904 – 1966 Brunswick, Melbourne, Victoria, AustraliaDeath: 1904 – 1966 Highett, Victoria, AustraliaFather: Arhtur Lincoln BostonMother: Sarah Jane TrembathReliability Score: N/AABArthur Edmund BostonBirth: 1904 – 1966 Brunswick, Melbourne, Victoria, AustraliaDeath: 1904 – 1966 Highett, Victoria, AustraliaFather: Arhtur Lincoln BostonMother: Sarah Jane TrembathReliability Score: N/A
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*B* Thomas BostonBirth: 1648 – 1713 Salem, Essex, Massachusetts, USADeath: 1648 – 1713 Wells, York, Maine, United StatesFather: Thomas BastonMother: Hannah BarnardReliability Score: C*B* Thomas BostonBirth: 1648 – 1713 Salem, Essex, Massachusetts, USADeath: 1648 – 1713 Wells, York, Maine, United StatesFather: Thomas BastonMother: Hannah BarnardReliability Score: C
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SBSarah BostonBirth: 1729 – 1795 baltimore, baltimore, maryland usaDeath: 1729 – 1795 washington, tennessee usaFather: Hilliard BostonMother: Mary EskridgeReliability Score: N/ASBSarah BostonBirth: 1729 – 1795 baltimore, baltimore, maryland usaDeath: 1729 – 1795 washington, tennessee usaFather: Hilliard BostonMother: Mary EskridgeReliability Score: N/A
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PBPhilip BostonBirth: 1791 – 1871 Stevington, Bedfordshire, EnglandDeath: 1791 – 1871 Bedfordshire, EnglandFather: William BostonMother: Catherine (Kitty) MacKernessReliability Score: BPBPhilip BostonBirth: 1791 – 1871 Stevington, Bedfordshire, EnglandDeath: 1791 – 1871 Bedfordshire, EnglandFather: William BostonMother: Catherine (Kitty) MacKernessReliability Score: B
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JBJames BostonBirth: 1824 – 1894 Pavenham, Bedfordshire, EnglandDeath: 1824 – 1894 Chesterfield, Derbyshire aged 64 yearsFather: James BostonMother: Mary TearReliability Score: AJBJames BostonBirth: 1824 – 1894 Pavenham, Bedfordshire, EnglandDeath: 1824 – 1894 Chesterfield, Derbyshire aged 64 yearsFather: James BostonMother: Mary TearReliability Score: A
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RBRichard BostonBirth: 1821 – 1839 Pavenham, BedfordshireDeath: 1821 – 1839 Pavenham, Bedfordshire aged 18 yearsFather: James BostonMother: Mary TearReliability Score: CRBRichard BostonBirth: 1821 – 1839 Pavenham, BedfordshireDeath: 1821 – 1839 Pavenham, Bedfordshire aged 18 yearsFather: James BostonMother: Mary TearReliability Score: C
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EBElizabeth BostonBirth: 1821 – 1887 Kempston, Bedfordshire, EnglandDeath: 1821 – 1887 Bedfordshire, EnglandFather: James BostonMother: Mary TearReliability Score: CEBElizabeth BostonBirth: 1821 – 1887 Kempston, Bedfordshire, EnglandDeath: 1821 – 1887 Bedfordshire, EnglandFather: James BostonMother: Mary TearReliability Score: C
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RBRebecca BostonBirth: 1814 – 1877 Kempston, Bedfordshire, EnglandDeath: 1814 – 1877 Bedford, Bedfordshire, EnglandFather: James BostonMother: Mary SimonsReliability Score: CRBRebecca BostonBirth: 1814 – 1877 Kempston, Bedfordshire, EnglandDeath: 1814 – 1877 Bedford, Bedfordshire, EnglandFather: James BostonMother: Mary SimonsReliability Score: C
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JBJoseph BostonBirth: 1832 – 1873 Kempston, BedsDeath: 1832 – 1873 Bedfordshire, EnglandFather: James BostonMother: Mary SimonsReliability Score: CJBJoseph BostonBirth: 1832 – 1873 Kempston, BedsDeath: 1832 – 1873 Bedfordshire, EnglandFather: James BostonMother: Mary SimonsReliability Score: C
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EBEsau BostonBirth: 1752 – 1846 Pitts Creek,Worcester,Maryland,USADeath: 1752 – 1846 Pitts Creek,Worcester,Maryland,USAFather: Jacob BostonMother: Eleanor BenstonReliability Score: N/AEBEsau BostonBirth: 1752 – 1846 Pitts Creek,Worcester,Maryland,USADeath: 1752 – 1846 Pitts Creek,Worcester,Maryland,USAFather: Jacob BostonMother: Eleanor BenstonReliability Score: N/A
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sBsarah martha BostonBirth: 1837 – 1893 Knowle, Warwickshire, , EnglandDeath: 1837 – 1893 Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, United KingdomFather: Daniel BostonMother: Mary WhitakerReliability Score: AsBsarah martha BostonBirth: 1837 – 1893 Knowle, Warwickshire, , EnglandDeath: 1837 – 1893 Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, United KingdomFather: Daniel BostonMother: Mary WhitakerReliability Score: A
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FBFanny BostonBirth: 1845 – 1904 Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, EnglandDeath: 1845 – 1904 Charleroi, Washington, Pennsylvania, United StatesFather: James BostonMother: Mary A BostonReliability Score: AFBFanny BostonBirth: 1845 – 1904 Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, EnglandDeath: 1845 – 1904 Charleroi, Washington, Pennsylvania, United StatesFather: James BostonMother: Mary A BostonReliability Score: A
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JBJames Harris of BOSTONBirth: 1640 – 1714 Boston, Suffolk, Massachusetts, United StatesDeath: 1640 – 1714 New London, New London, Connecticut, United StatesFather: Sir John HarrisMother: Bridget AngierReliability Score: CJBJames Harris of BOSTONBirth: 1640 – 1714 Boston, Suffolk, Massachusetts, United StatesDeath: 1640 – 1714 New London, New London, Connecticut, United StatesFather: Sir John HarrisMother: Bridget AngierReliability Score: C
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MBMary ann BostonBirth: 1828 – 1899 Hampton in Arden, Warwickshire, EnglandDeath: 1828 – 1899 Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, EnglandFather: Daniel BostonMother: Mary WhitakerReliability Score: AMBMary ann BostonBirth: 1828 – 1899 Hampton in Arden, Warwickshire, EnglandDeath: 1828 – 1899 Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, EnglandFather: Daniel BostonMother: Mary WhitakerReliability Score: A
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JBJames BostonBirth: 1789 – 1862 Stevington, Bedfordshire, EnglandDeath: 1789 – 1862 Bedford, Bedfordshire, EnglandFather: William BostonMother: Catherine (Kitty) MacKernessReliability Score: AJBJames BostonBirth: 1789 – 1862 Stevington, Bedfordshire, EnglandDeath: 1789 – 1862 Bedford, Bedfordshire, EnglandFather: William BostonMother: Catherine (Kitty) MacKernessReliability Score: A
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Tracing Your Boston Family Lineage
Origin of the Boston Family: Where does the Boston surname come from?
The earliest known appearance of the Boston surname can be traced back to England during the early 15th century, marking the beginning of genealogical records for this family line. This initial appearance connects the Boston family to the rich tapestry of English heritage, laying the groundwork for what would become a diverse genealogical lineage. The surname likely derived from geographic locations or notable landmarks, reflecting the family's ties to the land in their formative years.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Boston
In its early centuries, the Boston family began to spread primarily throughout England, with significant concentrations appearing in various regions noted in the YourRoots database. During the 16th century, the family tree began to branch out, as families established roots in different locales, contributing to the expansion of the Boston lineage. This period saw the formation of distinct family lines, each adapting to their unique environments while maintaining connections to the original family heritage.
As the 17th century approached, the Boston surname continued to flourish, with families increasingly establishing themselves in both rural and urban areas of England. These early Bostons laid the groundwork for future generations, building their family trees through marriages and migrations, which would eventually lead some branches across the ocean. The development of the Boston family during this time reflects the dynamic interplay of local culture and family ties that shaped their identity.
Tracing the Boston Family Tree Through the Centuries
The growth of the Boston surname saw a notable expansion across regions from one century to another, particularly as families began migrating to new lands. In the 18th century, the United States emerged as a prominent destination for Boston families, leading to a significant increase in the surname's presence in North America. This migration not only diversified the Boston family tree but also introduced new branches, as families adapted to the changing landscapes of their new homeland.
By the early 19th century, the Boston surname had established a substantial presence in the United States, further solidifying its roots in American soil. Throughout the 19th and into the 20th century, the surname continued to spread globally, with Boston families found in various countries and regions. This broad expansion highlights the resilience and adaptability of the Boston lineage as they navigated social changes and opportunities across the globe.
Where to Find Boston Genealogy Records Today
In the modern centuries, the Boston surname has maintained a global footprint, with significant populations in the United States and other countries. The widespread presence of the Boston family reflects the accumulated history and connections forged over generations. Readers are encouraged to explore Boston genealogy records in the YourRoots database to uncover their own family tree and connect with the rich legacy of the Boston surname.
Famous People with Boston (and Their Family Tree)
Aliyah Boston
Aliyah Boston, born December 11, 2001, is a standout American professional basketball player for the Indiana Fever in the WNBA. Notably, she was named the 2023 WNBA Rookie of the Year and AP Rookie of the Year. Boston's illustrious college career at the University of South Carolina saw her lead the team to a national championship in 2022, earning NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player honors. Her accolades include multiple Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year awards, and she was a four-time recipient of the Lisa Leslie Award. Drafted first overall in 2023, Boston's impact on the court continues to grow.
Aliyah Boston was born to parents Cleone and Al in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. At age 12, she moved to New England with her sister Alexis to live with their aunt, Jenaire Hodge, and cousin, Kira Punter, to pursue her basketball dreams. Her early experiences, influenced by her family's support and faith, laid the foundation for her remarkable journey in basketball.
Billy Boston
Billy Boston, MBE, is celebrated as one of rugby league's greatest players, noted for his exceptional speed and agility. Born in Cardiff, Wales, Boston began his career in rugby union before transitioning to rugby league with Wigan in 1953. Over 15 years with Wigan, he scored a record-breaking 478 tries in 488 appearances and played a crucial role in Great Britain's 1960 Rugby League World Cup victory. His career tally of 571 tries places him as the second-highest try scorer in rugby league history. Boston's remarkable achievements earned him induction into the British Rugby League Hall of Fame and an MBE for his community service in Wigan.
Billy Boston was born on 6 August 1934 in Butetown, Cardiff, as the sixth of eleven children to John Boston, a merchant seaman from Sierra Leone, and Nellie from Cardiff's Irish community. His family background reflects a rich cultural heritage that influenced his early life in the diverse communities of Cardiff Bay and the Docks area.
Rachel Boston
Rachel Boston is a prominent American actress known for her versatile roles across television and film. She gained recognition for her portrayal of Beth Mason in the NBC drama series "American Dreams" from 2002 to 2005, and later as Ingrid Beauchamp in the Lifetime series "Witches of East End." Boston's career includes significant performances in independent films, earning accolades such as the Best Actress Award at the San Diego Film Festival. Her collaborations with Hallmark have been noteworthy, starring in popular films like "Ice Sculpture Christmas" and "Stop the Wedding." Boston's filmography also includes roles in acclaimed movies like "500 Days of Summer" and "Ghosts of Girlfriends Past."
Rachel Boston was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to William Terry Boston and Brenda Billingsley Boston. Her father held a prominent position as the executive vice president of power system operations for the Tennessee Valley Authority. Raised in Signal Mountain, Tennessee, Boston moved to New York City at seventeen to pursue her education at New York University. She was Miss Tennessee Teen USA in 1999, showcasing her early achievements before embarking on a successful acting career.
David Boston
David Byron Boston, born on August 19, 1978, in Humble, Texas, is a former NFL wide receiver known for his impressive career with teams like the Arizona Cardinals, San Diego Chargers, Miami Dolphins, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. A standout player for the Ohio State Buckeyes, he earned first-team All-American honors in 1998. Boston was the eighth overall pick in the 1999 NFL Draft by the Cardinals, achieved Pro Bowl status in 2001, and set significant receiving records at Ohio State. Despite injuries and off-field challenges, Boston's NFL career is marked by his notable achievements and contributions to professional football.
Boston's father, Byron, is an NFL official who was restricted from officiating his son's regular season games. Byron did, however, serve as a line judge during one of David's preseason games.
History of African Americans in Boston
The history of African Americans in Boston is marked by significant contributions to arts, politics, and business despite systemic challenges. The city played a crucial role as a stop on the Underground Railroad and was a center for abolitionism, featuring notable figures such as Phillis Wheatley, the first African American poet to publish in the Colonies, and Crispus Attucks, the first casualty of the American Revolutionary War. The African Meeting House and Twelfth Baptist Church were pivotal in the abolitionist movement, hosting renowned lecturers like Frederick Douglass and William Wells Brown. Boston's demographics have evolved, now hosting a large foreign-born Black population, contributing to its diverse cultural landscape.
Boston Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Boston" is associated with a diverse group of individuals from various fields, including sports, politics, arts, and academia, indicating a wide geographical and professional distribution. Notable bearers of the name have contributed significantly in areas such as American sports, British politics, and the arts, reflecting the surname's presence in both the United States and other English-speaking countries.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Boston
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 Boston family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Boston surname to learn more.
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