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Buford Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Buford Surname

The Buford surname first appeared in England during the early 16th century, marking the beginning of a significant lineage entrenched in the cultural and social fabric of the time. This surname, carrying historical weight, is recognized for its association with various individuals who made notable contributions in their respective fields. The Buford family tree, thus, is a tapestry woven with threads of history and ancestry, offering a glimpse into the past of those who bore the name.

Over the centuries, the Buford surname evolved and spread geographically, particularly during the 17th century when many with the name migrated to the New World. The Buford family established themselves prominently in the American colonies, where they became integral to the evolving society. Notable individuals such as Abraham Buford, Algernon Sidney Buford, and John Buford emerged, leaving their mark on events like the Waxhaw Massacre and the American Civil War, highlighting the Buford name's significant presence in American history.

The YourRoots database enriches our understanding of the Buford genealogy by tracing the family tree's expansion into the 18th and 19th centuries. It reveals how the Buford family proliferated across the United States, moving from the eastern seaboard to other states. This expansion underscores the surname's journey and growth, confirming historical accounts and providing a comprehensive view of the Buford lineage through YourRoots records. This data offers invaluable insights for descendants seeking to explore and connect with their heritage.

Buford genealogy records, accessible through resources like YourRoots, reveal a rich and diverse history that continues to captivate researchers and family historians. The continuity between historical sources and modern genealogical data provides a wealth of information for those tracing the Buford family tree, ensuring the surname's legacy is preserved and appreciated by future generations.

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Tracing Your Buford Family Lineage

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

The Buford surname first appeared in records during the early 16th century in England, marking the beginning of a notable lineage. This connection to England serves as a foundation for the family tree, with its roots deeply embedded in the cultural and social fabric of the time. The early records provide a glimpse into the lives of those who carried the Buford name, setting the stage for future generations and their genealogical journeys.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Buford

Throughout the subsequent centuries, the Buford family began to spread, particularly during the 17th century, when many individuals migrated to the New World. The YourRoots database reveals that significant branches of the Buford family emerged in the American colonies, particularly in regions that would become key states in the United States. As these families settled and established themselves, they began to expand their family trees, creating a rich history of connections and lineage.

Tracing the Buford Family Tree Through the Centuries

The evolution of the Buford surname continued into the 18th and 19th centuries, with a remarkable increase in presence across various regions in the United States. This period saw the Buford name flourish, as families spread from the eastern seaboard to the interior parts of the country, establishing roots in multiple states. By the early 20th century, the Buford family had become a recognized name, reflecting a diverse genealogy that connected individuals across the globe.

Where to Find Buford Genealogy Records Today

In modern centuries, the Buford surname has maintained its presence, with a notable concentration in the United States, but also appearing in other parts of the world. As the family tree continues to grow, many descendants are encouraged to explore their heritage through the YourRoots database, where they can uncover valuable genealogy records. By piecing together these records, individuals can connect their family narratives to the broader story of the Buford lineage, enriching their understanding of their ancestral roots.

Famous People with Buford (and Their Family Tree)

John Buford

John Buford Jr. was a distinguished United States Army cavalry officer famous for his role in the American Civil War. Serving the Union, he rose to brigadier general, renowned for his tactical insight at the Battle of Gettysburg. Buford's strategic positioning of his cavalry on July 1, 1863, delayed Confederate forces, allowing Union reinforcements to secure a pivotal victory. His career highlights include engagements at Second Bull Run, Antietam, and Stoneman's Raid, culminating in a promotion to major general of volunteers by President Lincoln shortly before Buford's death in 1863.

Born in Woodford County, Kentucky, John Buford was raised in a politically prominent family with a strong military heritage. His father was a Democratic politician, and his family had deep military roots, including his grandfather, Simeon Buford, who served under Henry "Lighthorse" Lee during the Revolutionary War. Buford's half-brother, Napoleon Bonaparte Buford, became a Union major general, while his cousin, Abraham Buford, served as a Confederate cavalry brigadier general. This rich lineage influenced Buford's distinguished military career.

R. C. Buford

R. C. Buford is a prominent American basketball executive, currently serving as the CEO of the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA. Buford's illustrious career includes roles as general manager and head scout, contributing to five NBA championships with the Spurs. He has received the NBA Executive of the Year award twice, in the 2013–14 and 2015–16 seasons, highlighting his exceptional leadership and strategic skills. His tenure with the Spurs began in 1994, marking a significant influence in the team’s success and development.

Buford's father, Bob, was a successful oilman and rancher in Wichita, Kansas, which provides a glimpse into his family's industrious background. Buford's children have also pursued sports, with his son Chase coaching the Sydney Kings and his daughter C.C. coaching golf at East Carolina University.

Bill Buford

William Holmes Buford, born October 6, 1954, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a renowned American author and journalist. He has penned influential books such as "Among the Thugs" and "Heat," exploring English football hooliganism and culinary adventures, respectively. Buford's literary prowess extended to his role as fiction editor at The New Yorker, where he remains on staff, and his successful relaunch of Granta magazine in 1979. His works, filled with insights into gastronomy, include the 2020 book "Dirt," chronicling his culinary experiences in Lyon, France. Bill Buford is also credited with coining the term "dirty realism," showcasing his impact on literary circles.

Don Buford

Donald Alvin Buford, born on February 2, 1937, in Linden, Texas, is a renowned former professional baseball player known for his pivotal role as a leadoff hitter with the Baltimore Orioles. Buford's career highlights include winning three consecutive American League pennants from 1969 to 1971 and the 1970 World Series. A switch hitter who threw right-handed, he also played for the Chicago White Sox and in the Nippon Professional Baseball league. Buford's achievements are celebrated with his induction into the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame in 1993. His versatility on the field and record-setting performance in Major League Baseball make him a notable figure in sports history.

Buford's early life was marked by the tragic loss of his father in a shooting accident, leading his mother, Sedalia Buford, to move the family to Southern California. His family continued to uphold a strong connection to sports and academia, with his sons following his footsteps in athletics and academia. Don Buford, Jr. played in the Orioles minor league system before becoming an orthopedic surgeon, while Damon Buford played for the Orioles. Another son, Daryl, pursued a legal career after attending USC's Gould School of Law. Buford's wife, Alescia, is a law graduate from UCLA.

Napoleon Bonaparte Buford

Napoleon Bonaparte Buford was a distinguished American soldier and Union general during the Civil War, known for his role in commanding the 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, Army of the Mississippi. A West Point graduate, Buford first served as colonel of the 27th Illinois Infantry, participated in the Battle of Belmont, and played a key role in the Battle of Island Number Ten. Despite facing challenges, including the bankruptcy of the Rock Island and Peoria Railroad, he was nominated for the brevet grade of major general of volunteers post-war. Buford's contributions to the Union Army and his later work with the Union Pacific Railroad highlight his impactful career.

Napoleon Bonaparte Buford was born to John and Nancy Hickman Buford in Woodford County, Kentucky, on the family plantation, "Rose Hill." He was the half-brother of John Buford, a celebrated Union general, and had a cousin, Abraham Buford, who served as a Confederate general. This familial connection to notable military figures underscores the prominent military lineage within the Buford family.

Buford Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Buford" is associated with various notable individuals, including military figures, politicians, athletes, and artists, predominantly in American history. The name has been carried by influential people from the 18th century onwards, with connections to significant historical events such as the American Civil War.

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Buford

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