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Sign up freeCarter Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Carter Surname
The Carter surname has its roots in the British Isles, originating as an occupational name for those who transported goods by cart. This surname, deriving from the Celtic word "cairt," reflects the vital role of carters in medieval societies, where the movement of goods was essential for trade and commerce. Over time, Carter became a widely recognized surname, illustrating the family's integral part in the economic fabric of English, Irish, and Scottish communities.
As the centuries progressed, the Carter surname spread geographically and culturally. In the late medieval period, Carters were found throughout England, particularly in regions with strong agricultural and trade activities. The surname also crossed the Irish Sea, becoming an Anglicized form of various Gaelic names, such as Mac Artúir. The 17th century marked a significant expansion as many Carters emigrated to the United States, establishing a new chapter in the Carter family tree as they adapted to the New World's opportunities.
YourRoots data enriches our understanding of the Carter genealogy by confirming its early presence in England as recorded in historical documents from the 12th century. This aligns with the surname's occupational origins and its spread across Britain and Ireland. The YourRoots insights also highlight how the Carter surname became prominent in the United States by the 18th century, reflecting broader migration patterns and the family's adaptation to different cultural landscapes.
For genealogy researchers, the YourRoots data provides a valuable resource, offering a comprehensive view of the Carter family's historical journey. By tracing the Carter family tree through these records, researchers can uncover the rich tapestry of connections and migrations that have shaped the Carter lineage over the centuries.
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HCHoward CarterBirth: 1908 – 1987 Napavine, Lewis, Washington, USADeath: 1908 – 1987 Mesa, Maricopa, Arizona, USAFather: Charles CarterMother: Mary BrelorReliability Score: N/AHCHoward CarterBirth: 1908 – 1987 Napavine, Lewis, Washington, USADeath: 1908 – 1987 Mesa, Maricopa, Arizona, USAFather: Charles CarterMother: Mary BrelorReliability Score: N/A
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RCRichard Randolph CarterBirth: 1919 – 2008 Oregon, USADeath: 1919 – 2008 Tacoma, Pierce, Washington, USAFather: Paul Franklin CarterMother: Grace Darling DerryReliability Score: N/ARCRichard Randolph CarterBirth: 1919 – 2008 Oregon, USADeath: 1919 – 2008 Tacoma, Pierce, Washington, USAFather: Paul Franklin CarterMother: Grace Darling DerryReliability Score: N/A
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HCHenry Benjamin CarterBirth: 1890 – 1972 Prairie City,Grant,Oregon, USADeath: 1890 – 1972 Tangent, Linn, Oregon, USAFather: Benjamin Franklin CarterMother: Susan Ethel TuckerReliability Score: N/AHCHenry Benjamin CarterBirth: 1890 – 1972 Prairie City,Grant,Oregon, USADeath: 1890 – 1972 Tangent, Linn, Oregon, USAFather: Benjamin Franklin CarterMother: Susan Ethel TuckerReliability Score: N/A
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BCBenjamin Franklin CarterBirth: 1864 – 1911 Austin,Mower,Minnesota, USADeath: 1864 – 1911 Marcola,Lane,Oregon, USAFather: Henry Benjamin CarterMother: Elizabeth HaightReliability Score: N/ABCBenjamin Franklin CarterBirth: 1864 – 1911 Austin,Mower,Minnesota, USADeath: 1864 – 1911 Marcola,Lane,Oregon, USAFather: Henry Benjamin CarterMother: Elizabeth HaightReliability Score: N/A
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JCJohn Henry CarterBirth: 1860 – 1935 Austin,Mower,Minnesota, USADeath: 1860 – 1935 Devitt, Benton, Oregon, USAFather: Henry Benjamin CarterMother: Elizabeth HaightReliability Score: N/AJCJohn Henry CarterBirth: 1860 – 1935 Austin,Mower,Minnesota, USADeath: 1860 – 1935 Devitt, Benton, Oregon, USAFather: Henry Benjamin CarterMother: Elizabeth HaightReliability Score: N/A
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LCLoyd Guy CarterBirth: 1897 – 1944 Sublimity, Marion, Oregon, USADeath: 1897 – 1944 Orange, California, USAFather: John Henry CarterMother: Mary Harriet ThomasReliability Score: N/ALCLoyd Guy CarterBirth: 1897 – 1944 Sublimity, Marion, Oregon, USADeath: 1897 – 1944 Orange, California, USAFather: John Henry CarterMother: Mary Harriet ThomasReliability Score: N/A
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ECEffie CarterBirth: 1884 – 1973 Sublimity, Marion, Oregon, USADeath: 1884 – 1973 Salem, Marion, Oregon, USAFather: John Henry CarterMother: Mary Harriet ThomasReliability Score: N/AECEffie CarterBirth: 1884 – 1973 Sublimity, Marion, Oregon, USADeath: 1884 – 1973 Salem, Marion, Oregon, USAFather: John Henry CarterMother: Mary Harriet ThomasReliability Score: N/A
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CCCarl Richard CarterBirth: 1895 – 1960 Sublimity, Marion, Oregon, USADeath: 1895 – 1960 Richland, Franklin, Washington, USAFather: Benjamin Franklin CarterMother: Susan Ethel TuckerReliability Score: N/ACCCarl Richard CarterBirth: 1895 – 1960 Sublimity, Marion, Oregon, USADeath: 1895 – 1960 Richland, Franklin, Washington, USAFather: Benjamin Franklin CarterMother: Susan Ethel TuckerReliability Score: N/A
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CCCharles CarterBirth: 1882 – 1959 Sublimity, Marion, Oregon, USADeath: 1882 – 1959 Corvallis, Benton, Oregon, USAFather: John Henry CarterMother: Mary Harriet ThomasReliability Score: N/ACCCharles CarterBirth: 1882 – 1959 Sublimity, Marion, Oregon, USADeath: 1882 – 1959 Corvallis, Benton, Oregon, USAFather: John Henry CarterMother: Mary Harriet ThomasReliability Score: N/A
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MCMarion CarterBirth: 1919 – 1980 Portland ,Multnomah,Oregon, USADeath: 1919 – 1980 Pasco, Franklin, Washington, USAFather: Carl Richard CarterMother: Sarah Bessie HallReliability Score: N/AMCMarion CarterBirth: 1919 – 1980 Portland ,Multnomah,Oregon, USADeath: 1919 – 1980 Pasco, Franklin, Washington, USAFather: Carl Richard CarterMother: Sarah Bessie HallReliability Score: N/A
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JCJane Bowen CarterBirth: 1680 – 1755 Chester, Chester, Pennsylvania, USADeath: 1680 – 1755 Frederick, Virginia, United StatesFather: Robert CarterMother: Hannah LucasReliability Score: CJCJane Bowen CarterBirth: 1680 – 1755 Chester, Chester, Pennsylvania, USADeath: 1680 – 1755 Frederick, Virginia, United StatesFather: Robert CarterMother: Hannah LucasReliability Score: C
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SCShirley Yvonne CarterBirth: 1938 – 2009 Shackelford, Texas, USADeath: 1938 – 2009 Rice, Ellis,Texas, USAFather: Jesse Earl CarterMother: Catherine Beatrice MeltonReliability Score: N/ASCShirley Yvonne CarterBirth: 1938 – 2009 Shackelford, Texas, USADeath: 1938 – 2009 Rice, Ellis,Texas, USAFather: Jesse Earl CarterMother: Catherine Beatrice MeltonReliability Score: N/A
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WCWilliam Henry CarterBirth: 1901 – 1996 Camborne, Cornwall, EnglandDeath: 1901 – 1996 Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USAFather: Thomas CarterMother: Katherine PascoeReliability Score: BWCWilliam Henry CarterBirth: 1901 – 1996 Camborne, Cornwall, EnglandDeath: 1901 – 1996 Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USAFather: Thomas CarterMother: Katherine PascoeReliability Score: B
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CCChester Floyd CarterBirth: 1897 – 1980 Coquille,Coos,Oregon, USADeath: 1897 – 1980 Clinton,Island,Washington, USAFather: George H CarterMother: Emma D HahnReliability Score: N/ACCChester Floyd CarterBirth: 1897 – 1980 Coquille,Coos,Oregon, USADeath: 1897 – 1980 Clinton,Island,Washington, USAFather: George H CarterMother: Emma D HahnReliability Score: N/A
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BCBessie June CarterBirth: 1928 – 1982 Portland ,Multnomah,Oregon, USADeath: 1928 – 1982 Corvallis, Benton, Oregon, USAFather: Carl Richard CarterMother: Sarah Bessie HallReliability Score: N/ABCBessie June CarterBirth: 1928 – 1982 Portland ,Multnomah,Oregon, USADeath: 1928 – 1982 Corvallis, Benton, Oregon, USAFather: Carl Richard CarterMother: Sarah Bessie HallReliability Score: N/A
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PCPaul Franklin CarterBirth: 1889 – 1956 Drewsey,Harney,Oregon, USADeath: 1889 – 1956 Salem,Marion,Oregon, USAFather: Benjamin Franklin CarterMother: Susan Ethel TuckerReliability Score: N/APCPaul Franklin CarterBirth: 1889 – 1956 Drewsey,Harney,Oregon, USADeath: 1889 – 1956 Salem,Marion,Oregon, USAFather: Benjamin Franklin CarterMother: Susan Ethel TuckerReliability Score: N/A
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FCFrances James CarterBirth: 1907 – 1966 Troon, CornwallDeath: 1907 – 1966 Troon, Camborne, Cornwall, EnglandFather: Thomas CarterMother: Katherine PascoeReliability Score: BFCFrances James CarterBirth: 1907 – 1966 Troon, CornwallDeath: 1907 – 1966 Troon, Camborne, Cornwall, EnglandFather: Thomas CarterMother: Katherine PascoeReliability Score: B
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WCWava Echo CarterBirth: 1890 – 1986 Salem,Marion,Oregon, USADeath: 1890 – 1986 Medford, Jackson, Oregon, USAFather: George H CarterMother: Emma D HahnReliability Score: N/AWCWava Echo CarterBirth: 1890 – 1986 Salem,Marion,Oregon, USADeath: 1890 – 1986 Medford, Jackson, Oregon, USAFather: George H CarterMother: Emma D HahnReliability Score: N/A
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HCHazel M CarterBirth: 1905 – 1945 Portland, Multnomah, Oregon, USADeath: 1905 – 1945 Portland, Multnomah, Oregon, USAFather: Charles CarterMother: Mary BrelorReliability Score: N/AHCHazel M CarterBirth: 1905 – 1945 Portland, Multnomah, Oregon, USADeath: 1905 – 1945 Portland, Multnomah, Oregon, USAFather: Charles CarterMother: Mary BrelorReliability Score: N/A
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GCGeorge H CarterBirth: 1866 – 1956 Austin,Mower,Minnesota, USADeath: 1866 – 1956 Clinton,Island,Washington, USAFather: Henry Benjamin CarterMother: Elizabeth HaightReliability Score: N/AGCGeorge H CarterBirth: 1866 – 1956 Austin,Mower,Minnesota, USADeath: 1866 – 1956 Clinton,Island,Washington, USAFather: Henry Benjamin CarterMother: Elizabeth HaightReliability Score: N/A
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Tracing Your Carter Family Lineage
Origin of the Carter Family: Where does the Carter surname come from?
The Carter surname has its earliest known appearance in the records of England, marking the beginning of a rich genealogical history. This initial mention connects families to their roots, establishing a foundation for the Carter family tree that would grow and branch out over the centuries. The surname itself is believed to have derived from an occupational term, relating to those who transported goods by cart, further enriching the narrative of the family's origin in a bustling medieval society.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Carter
During the early centuries, the Carter family began to proliferate primarily across England, particularly in regions characterized by agricultural development and trade. As the centuries progressed, branches of the Carter family tree expanded, with members establishing themselves in various communities where their skills as carters were in demand. The family’s presence became increasingly notable, with records indicating a significant rise in the number of individuals bearing the surname during the late medieval period.
In subsequent centuries, the Carter family continued to grow, diversifying into various professions and trades that reflected the evolving societal landscape. This adaptability helped forge connections and alliances, allowing for the expansion of family trees as members married into other families and settled in new areas. The genealogy of the Carter family thus evolved, building a complex web of relationships and histories across England and beyond.
Tracing the Carter Family Tree Through the Centuries
The surname Carter experienced considerable expansion throughout the centuries, particularly notable during the 17th century when many Carters began migrating to the United States. This transatlantic journey marked a significant shift in the family’s geographic footprint, as generations established themselves in new lands and adapted to different cultural contexts. By the 18th century, the surname had firmly rooted itself in American soil, with families embracing agricultural and trade opportunities that mirrored their ancestry.
As the family tree continued to branch out into the 19th and early 20th centuries, Carters began to appear in various regions across the United States, reflecting a broader trend of migration and settlement. The surname also saw a presence in other parts of the world, showcasing the global spread of the Carter lineage. This expansion illustrates how the Carter family has woven itself into the tapestry of history, with each generation contributing to the rich narrative of their heritage.
Where to Find Carter Genealogy Records Today
In the modern centuries, the Carter surname remains prevalent, with a significant presence in the United States and other countries, reflecting the family’s enduring legacy. The 20th century saw a consolidation of the family’s history, as many sought to document their lineage and connect with their ancestral roots. For those interested in exploring their own connections to the Carter family tree, the Your
Famous People with Carter (and Their Family Tree)
Helena Bonham Carter
Helena Bonham Carter, born on 26 May 1966, is a renowned English actress celebrated for her roles in both blockbuster hits and independent films. Known for her distinctive fashion and eccentric roles, she gained fame with “A Room with a View” and “Lady Jane.” Her performances in “The Wings of the Dove” and “The King's Speech” earned her Academy Award nominations, with the latter winning her a BAFTA. Her collaboration with Tim Burton in films like “Sweeney Todd” and roles in the “Harry Potter” series have solidified her status in the film industry.
Bonham Carter hails from a prominent family. Her father, Raymond, was a merchant banker and part of a notable British political lineage. Her maternal grandparents include diplomat Eduardo Propper de Callejón and painter Baroness Hélène Fould-Springer. Her paternal grandmother, Violet Bonham Carter, was a politician and daughter of former UK Prime Minister H. H. Asquith. Helena is also related to economist Adam Ridley and politician Jane Bonham Carter.
Blue Ivy Carter
Blue Ivy Carter, born January 7, 2012, is an acclaimed American singer and actress, known for her early achievements. She made history as the youngest person to chart on Billboard with her feature on Jay-Z's "Glory" and won a Grammy for her role in "Brown Skin Girl." Earning the title "New Princess of Pop" by Rolling Stone, Carter has participated in significant performances, including a duet with Beyoncé in Dubai and as a dancer on the Renaissance World Tour. Her 2024 voice role as Princess Kiara in "Mufasa: The Lion King" marks her feature film debut.
Blue Ivy Carter is the daughter of music icons Beyoncé and Jay-Z. Her maternal grandparents are Tina and Mathew Knowles, and she is the niece of singer Solange Knowles. Since her birth at Lenox Hill Hospital in Manhattan, she has been in the media spotlight, with her parents securing trademarks on her name, acknowledging her as a "cultural icon." Her family background includes influential figures in the music industry, contributing to her prominence and early success.
Lynda Carter
Lynda Carter, renowned American actress and singer, gained fame for her iconic role as Wonder Woman in the 1970s television series. Her career highlights include winning the title of Miss World USA in 1972 and appearing in films like Super Troopers and Sky High. She also played President Olivia Marsdin in Supergirl. Carter's achievements include receiving a Golden Palm Star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Her portrayal of Wonder Woman remains a defining part of her career, earning her a lasting legacy in pop culture.
Born in Phoenix, Arizona, Lynda Carter is the daughter of Juana Córdova and Colby Carter. Her father has English and Irish roots, while her mother's family is of Spanish and French descent from Chihuahua, Mexico. She has a brother, Vincent, and a sister, Pamela. Carter's early musical endeavors included performing with her cousins in a band called The Relatives.
Dixie Carter
Dixie Virginia Carter was a celebrated American actress renowned for her role as Julia Sugarbaker on the sitcom "Designing Women" (1986–1993) and as Randi King on "Family Law" (1999–2002). Her career highlights include a Primetime Emmy nomination for her role as Gloria Hodge on "Desperate Housewives" (2006–2007). Carter's theater credits feature starring as Maria Callas in "Master Class" and Mrs. Meers in "Thoroughly Modern Millie." Her TV appearances spanned popular series like "Diff'rent Strokes" and "Filthy Rich," solidifying her reputation for portraying strong Southern women.
Dixie Carter was born on May 25, 1939, to Esther Virginia Hillsman and Halbert Leroy Carter in McLemoresville, Tennessee. She was raised in Memphis, where she attended the University of Memphis and Rhodes College.
Amy Carter
Amy Lynn Carter, born on October 19, 1967, is the daughter of the 39th U.S. President Jimmy Carter. Known for her activism, she protested against apartheid and the CIA during her time at Brown University. As a child, she lived in the White House, gaining media attention for her unique experiences, including having a Siamese cat and a pet elephant. She illustrated "The Little Baby Snoogle-Fleejer," a children's book by her father, and serves on the board of the Carter Center, promoting human rights and diplomacy.
Amy Carter is the only daughter of President Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter. Her family roots trace back to Plains, Georgia, where she was born and raised until her father's political career relocated them to Atlanta and later to the White House.
Carter Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Carter" has its origins in Irish, Scottish, and English cultures, deriving from an occupational role of transporting goods by cart or wagon. It stems from the Celtic word "cairt," meaning cart, and has connections to the Proto-Indo-European term for a wheeled vehicle. Over time, it has become a common surname in various regions, including the United States, England, and Ireland, often appearing as an Anglicized form of other Gaelic names.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Carter
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 Carter family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Carter surname to learn more.
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