First name (Optional)

Middle name (Optional)

Last name* (Required)

Extended search

Exact match

(Show only records that exactly match the information entered.)

Birth year (Optional)

Death year (Optional)

Birth location (Optional)

Death location (Optional)

Buffington Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Buffington Surname

The Buffington surname is believed to have English origins, first appearing in historical records in England. Its presence in these early records hints at a connection to local geography or significant events that may have influenced its adoption. As the Buffington name took root, it marked the beginning of a family history steeped in English tradition and lineage.

Over the centuries, the Buffington family spread throughout England, establishing prominent branches that contributed to the surname's evolution. Notable individuals from this lineage include American soldiers, politicians, and athletes such as Adelbert Rinaldo Buffington and Charlie Buffinton, who was originally born Buffington. The family's expansion reflected key migration patterns, particularly to the New World, where they continued to make significant impacts.

YourRoots data corroborates this expansion, showing the Buffington surname's presence in England since its initial records. The dataset highlights how the family spread across England and later ventured abroad, especially to the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries. These records enrich the understanding of the Buffington family's geographical and cultural journey, demonstrating their adaptability and influence in various environments.

For those interested in the Buffington family tree or genealogy, YourRoots offers valuable insights. The data provides a comprehensive view of the Buffington surname's historical spread and current global presence, serving as a key resource for anyone tracing their Buffington ancestry. This connection between historical records and modern genealogy tools underscores the dynamic nature of family history research.

← START A NEW SEARCH

Find the Buffington Family Tree

Search more Buffington trees & genealogy records

Records

Tracing Your Buffington Family Lineage

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

The Buffington surname first appears in YourRoots records in England, marking the beginning of its genealogical journey. This early presence hints at the origins of the Buffington family tree, suggesting the surname may have roots in local geography or significant historical events of the time. As families began to form around this name, the foundations of Buffington lineage were laid in the rich soil of English history.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Buffington

During the following centuries, the Buffington family spread primarily throughout England, establishing branches that would later flourish in various regions. Key areas of early Buffington family lines can be traced within England, where they began to create networks that would support their growth and expansion. Over time, these families would develop distinct identities, contributing to the diversity of the Buffington surname as it evolved.

The migration of Buffington families began to take shape as some members sought new opportunities abroad, particularly to the New World. As they ventured forth, they carried their lineage with them, ensuring the Buffington name continued to thrive in new lands and diverse communities.

Tracing the Buffington Family Tree Through the Centuries

The Buffington surname experienced significant expansion during the centuries, particularly in the United States, where it found a new home in the 18th and 19th centuries. This period saw a remarkable increase in the Buffington presence, as families established themselves across various states, creating a rich tapestry of connections that spanned the continent. Notably, the evolution of the Buffington family tree reflects broader patterns of migration and settlement, illustrating how these families adapted and grew in diverse environments.

As the surname spread globally, Buffington descendants could be found not only in North America but also in other regions, showcasing the far-reaching influence of this family name. Throughout the centuries, Buffington families maintained their connections to their roots while simultaneously integrating into new cultures, enhancing the surname's legacy. Each branch of the family tree contributes to the overall narrative of the Buffington lineage, creating a story that spans generations and geography.

Where to Find Buffington Genealogy Records Today

In modern times, the Buffington surname continues to be prevalent, particularly in the United States, where it has established a strong presence in the 20th and 21st centuries. The global spread of the Buffington name reflects the dynamic nature of family histories, as descendants seek to connect with their ancestral roots while exploring new horizons. Readers are encouraged to delve into the Buffington genealogy records available in the YourRoots database to uncover their own family connections and continue the exploration of their unique lineage.

Famous People with Buffington (and Their Family Tree)

Thomas Buffington

Thomas Mitchell Buffington (1855-1938) was a prominent Cherokee Nation politician, serving as a district judge, senator, and mayor of Vinita, Oklahoma. Notably, he was the temporary Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation in 1891, following the deaths of Chief Joel B. Mayes and Second Chief Henry Chambers. Buffington, aligned with the Downing party, was instrumental in advocating for the Curtis Act of 1898 in Washington, D.C. Elected as Principal Chief in 1899, he served until 1903. Buffington's leadership in Cherokee politics and his roles in the Cherokee Nation made him a significant figure in Native American history.

Thomas Buffington was born on October 15, 1855, in Going Snake District, Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory. His father, Ezekiel Buffington, originally from Georgia, moved to Oklahoma Territory in 1835 as part of the Cherokee diaspora. His mother, Louisa (Newman) Buffington, was born in Tennessee in 1817. Thomas was one of eight children and was educated at the Baptist Mission School by Cherokee educator Carrie E. Bushyhead.

Adelbert Rinaldo Buffington

Adelbert Rinaldo Buffington was a distinguished United States Army Brigadier General and the 10th Chief of Ordnance for the U.S. Army Ordnance Corps, born on November 22, 1837, in Wheeling, West Virginia. A West Point graduate, Buffington contributed significantly to military engineering and ordnance, including developing the disappearing seacoast carriages and the Buffington rear sight for small arms. His career spanned various commands, including the St. Louis and Rock Island Arsenals, and he played a crucial role in modernizing artillery and weapons systems during his tenure, retiring as a Brigadier General in 1901.

Joseph Buffington

Joseph Buffington (1855–1947) was a distinguished United States circuit judge known for his long tenure on the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit and the United States Circuit Courts for the Third Circuit. Appointed by President Benjamin Harrison in 1892 and later elevated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906, Buffington served until 1947, assuming senior status in 1938. His career highlights include his participation in the Conference of Senior Circuit Judges from 1922 to 1937. Despite his achievements, Buffington was involved in a scandal in the 1930s involving signing opinions drafted by a bribed colleague.

Buffington was born to Ephraim and Margaret Chambers (Orr) Buffington in Kittanning, Pennsylvania. He was also the nephew of a notable Pennsylvania judge who shared his name. On January 29, 1885, he married Mary Alice Simonton from Emmitsburg, Maryland, further rooting his family connections in the legal and social fabric of Pennsylvania.

George Buffington

George Augustus Buffington was a prominent American businessman and politician, known for his pioneering contributions to the Chippewa Valley area of Wisconsin. As the 4th mayor of Eau Claire and a key figure in its early development, Buffington amassed wealth through diverse ventures, including the Valley Lumber Company, where he served as President. His foresight in predicting the decline of the logging industry highlights his strategic acumen. Buffington was also actively involved in local governance as an alderman and chairman of the Eau Claire County Board of Supervisors.

Born in 1825 in Little Valley, New York, George Buffington was the son of Isaiah and Sophia (Winchester) Buffington. Raised in Onondaga County, New York, he moved to Wisconsin with his family at seventeen, marking the beginning of his influential career.

Brett Buffington

Brett Culver Buffington, born on May 5, 1961, is a former professional tennis player from the United States renowned for his doubles play. Raised in La Jolla, he shone as a member of UCLA's 1984 NCAA Championship-winning team. Buffington's career highlights include reaching the round of 16 in mixed doubles at the 1987 Wimbledon Championships alongside Nicole Jagerman. After retiring from tennis, he transitioned into luxury real estate, collaborating with Phillip Agassi in San Diego and Las Vegas. His professional journey is marked by his achievements on the tennis court and his successful pivot to real estate.

Buffington Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Buffington" is associated with several notable Americans across various fields, including politics, sports, and military service, primarily in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Individuals with this surname have served as soldiers, politicians, a judge, and a Native American chief, reflecting a diverse range of contributions to American society.

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Buffington

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 Buffington family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Buffington surname to learn more.