Sign up to explore more
Create a free account to navigate family trees, view ancestors, and discover connections.
Sign up free
Sign up to explore more
Create a free account to navigate family trees, view ancestors, and discover connections.
Sign up freeChaney Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Chaney Surname
The Chaney surname has its origins in England, first appearing in records during the early 12th century. The name is believed to signify familial connections that have deep historical roots in the British Isles. Over the centuries, the Chaney surname has evolved, reflecting both the personal histories of individuals and the broader social changes occurring in England during this time.
As the centuries progressed, the Chaney surname spread geographically and culturally. By the 17th century, many members of the Chaney family migrated to the United States, seeking new opportunities. This migration contributed to a significant concentration of Chaney families in North America. Notable individuals with the Chaney surname include Lon Chaney, an iconic American actor, and James Chaney, a civil rights activist, highlighting the surname's diverse contributions to society.
The YourRoots database provides valuable insights into the Chaney surname, confirming its presence in England since the 12th century. This aligns with the broader historical context of the surname's emergence and its subsequent spread. The dataset illustrates how the Chaney family tree grew notably in the 15th century, becoming more prominent in English society and later expanding significantly in the United States during the 17th century and beyond.
For those interested in Chaney genealogy or researching Chaney records, the YourRoots data offers a comprehensive resource. It sheds light on the historical migration patterns and genealogical connections that have shaped the Chaney family tree over the centuries, providing a rich tapestry for family-history enthusiasts to explore.
Find the Chaney Family Tree
Search more Chaney trees & genealogy records
Records
-
ECElemuel ChaneyBirth: 1822 – 1891 Anne Arundel County, Maryland, USADeath: 1822 – 1891 Greenfield, Fairfield, Ohio, USAFather: Isaac CheneyMother: Lucy (Cheney) StockwellReliability Score: BECElemuel ChaneyBirth: 1822 – 1891 Anne Arundel County, Maryland, USADeath: 1822 – 1891 Greenfield, Fairfield, Ohio, USAFather: Isaac CheneyMother: Lucy (Cheney) StockwellReliability Score: B
-
WCWardie Earlene ChaneyBirth: 1913 – 1966 Edgewood, TexasDeath: 1913 – 1966 Terrell, Kaufman, Texas, USAFather: Ollie Lee ChaneyMother: Effie Adeline DanielReliability Score: CWCWardie Earlene ChaneyBirth: 1913 – 1966 Edgewood, TexasDeath: 1913 – 1966 Terrell, Kaufman, Texas, USAFather: Ollie Lee ChaneyMother: Effie Adeline DanielReliability Score: C
-
BCBoyd Yantis ChaneyBirth: 1910 – 1975 Canton, Texas, USADeath: 1910 – 1975 Athens, Henderson, Texas, United States of AmericaFather: Ollie Lee ChaneyMother: Effie Adeline DanielReliability Score: ABCBoyd Yantis ChaneyBirth: 1910 – 1975 Canton, Texas, USADeath: 1910 – 1975 Athens, Henderson, Texas, United States of AmericaFather: Ollie Lee ChaneyMother: Effie Adeline DanielReliability Score: A
-
VCValen Porter ChaneyBirth: 1905 – 1971 Douglas County, OregonDeath: 1905 – 1971 San Joaquin County, CaliforniaFather: Thurman ChaneyMother: Grace Mae CornelisonReliability Score: AVCValen Porter ChaneyBirth: 1905 – 1971 Douglas County, OregonDeath: 1905 – 1971 San Joaquin County, CaliforniaFather: Thurman ChaneyMother: Grace Mae CornelisonReliability Score: A
-
MCMary Jane ChaneyBirth: 1840 – 1918 MarylandDeath: 1840 – 1918 Anne Arundel County, Maryland, United States of AmericaFather: Ned ChaneyMother: SusanReliability Score: AMCMary Jane ChaneyBirth: 1840 – 1918 MarylandDeath: 1840 – 1918 Anne Arundel County, Maryland, United States of AmericaFather: Ned ChaneyMother: SusanReliability Score: A
-
FCFrank ChaneyBirth: 1870 – 1954 Ohio, United States of AmericaDeath: 1870 – 1954 Cowley County, Kansas, United States of AmericaFather: Elemuel ChaneyMother: Maria BroombackReliability Score: BFCFrank ChaneyBirth: 1870 – 1954 Ohio, United States of AmericaDeath: 1870 – 1954 Cowley County, Kansas, United States of AmericaFather: Elemuel ChaneyMother: Maria BroombackReliability Score: B
-
SCSarah Mansfield ChaneyBirth: 1767 – 1847 Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, United StatesDeath: 1767 – 1847 United States, Harrison, Ohio, United StatesFather: Colonel John MansfieldMother: Sarah CheeverReliability Score: N/ASCSarah Mansfield ChaneyBirth: 1767 – 1847 Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, United StatesDeath: 1767 – 1847 United States, Harrison, Ohio, United StatesFather: Colonel John MansfieldMother: Sarah CheeverReliability Score: N/A
-
HCHoward Raymond ChaneyBirth: 1926 – 2000 Chillicothe, Ross, Ohio, USADeath: 1926 – 2000 Ray, Vinton, Ohio, USAFather: Charles Raymond ChaneyMother: Hazel Ruth KelloughReliability Score: N/AHCHoward Raymond ChaneyBirth: 1926 – 2000 Chillicothe, Ross, Ohio, USADeath: 1926 – 2000 Ray, Vinton, Ohio, USAFather: Charles Raymond ChaneyMother: Hazel Ruth KelloughReliability Score: N/A
-
ACAlice Louise ChaneyBirth: 1933 – 2011 Ross, Ohio, USADeath: 1933 – 2011 Chillicothe, Ross, Ohio, USAFather: Charles Raymond ChaneyMother: Hazel Ruth KelloughReliability Score: N/AACAlice Louise ChaneyBirth: 1933 – 2011 Ross, Ohio, USADeath: 1933 – 2011 Chillicothe, Ross, Ohio, USAFather: Charles Raymond ChaneyMother: Hazel Ruth KelloughReliability Score: N/A
-
MCMildred Ann ChaneyBirth: 1927 – 2008 Ross, Ohio, USADeath: 1927 – 2008 Chillicothe, Ross, Ohio, USAFather: Charles Raymond ChaneyMother: Hazel Ruth KelloughReliability Score: N/AMCMildred Ann ChaneyBirth: 1927 – 2008 Ross, Ohio, USADeath: 1927 – 2008 Chillicothe, Ross, Ohio, USAFather: Charles Raymond ChaneyMother: Hazel Ruth KelloughReliability Score: N/A
-
RCRichard ChaneyBirth: 1595 – 1633 St Marys, London, , EnglandDeath: 1595 – 1633 London, London, , EnglandFather: Richard ChaneyMother: Elizabeth OffleyReliability Score: CRCRichard ChaneyBirth: 1595 – 1633 St Marys, London, , EnglandDeath: 1595 – 1633 London, London, , EnglandFather: Richard ChaneyMother: Elizabeth OffleyReliability Score: C
-
ECElizabeth "Betsy" ChaneyBirth: 1786 – 1860 Kentucky, USADeath: 1786 – 1860 Harrison County, Ohio, USAFather: Richard ChaneyMother: LYDIA POERReliability Score: BECElizabeth "Betsy" ChaneyBirth: 1786 – 1860 Kentucky, USADeath: 1786 – 1860 Harrison County, Ohio, USAFather: Richard ChaneyMother: LYDIA POERReliability Score: B
-
PCPatsy Ruth ChaneyBirth: 1926 – 2003 Wichita Falls, Wichita, Texas, USADeath: 1926 – 2003 Village Mills, Hardin, Texas, USAFather: Fred Jackson ChaneyMother: Nina Edith MeltonReliability Score: N/APCPatsy Ruth ChaneyBirth: 1926 – 2003 Wichita Falls, Wichita, Texas, USADeath: 1926 – 2003 Village Mills, Hardin, Texas, USAFather: Fred Jackson ChaneyMother: Nina Edith MeltonReliability Score: N/A
-
JCJack Thomas ChaneyBirth: 1924 – 2005 Snyder, Scurry, Texas, USADeath: 1924 – 2005 Sandia, Jim Wells, Texas, USAFather: Fred Jackson ChaneyMother: Nina Edith MeltonReliability Score: N/AJCJack Thomas ChaneyBirth: 1924 – 2005 Snyder, Scurry, Texas, USADeath: 1924 – 2005 Sandia, Jim Wells, Texas, USAFather: Fred Jackson ChaneyMother: Nina Edith MeltonReliability Score: N/A
-
OCOpal Lucille ChaneyBirth: 1929 – 1980 Ross, Ohio, USADeath: 1929 – 1980 Ross, Ohio, USAFather: Charles Raymond ChaneyMother: Hazel Ruth KelloughReliability Score: N/AOCOpal Lucille ChaneyBirth: 1929 – 1980 Ross, Ohio, USADeath: 1929 – 1980 Ross, Ohio, USAFather: Charles Raymond ChaneyMother: Hazel Ruth KelloughReliability Score: N/A
-
SCSarah Elizabeth ChaneyBirth: 1836 – 1918 Cadiz, Harrison, OhioDeath: 1836 – 1918 Hamburg, Fremont County, IowaFather: John Alexander ChaneyMother: Martha Ann ClarkReliability Score: N/ASCSarah Elizabeth ChaneyBirth: 1836 – 1918 Cadiz, Harrison, OhioDeath: 1836 – 1918 Hamburg, Fremont County, IowaFather: John Alexander ChaneyMother: Martha Ann ClarkReliability Score: N/A
-
LCLeroy ChaneyBirth: 1923 – 1982 Arkansas City, Cowley County, Kansas, United States of AmericaDeath: 1923 – 1982 San Mateo, San Mateo, California, USAFather: Frank ChaneyMother: Marie Minnie PotterReliability Score: BLCLeroy ChaneyBirth: 1923 – 1982 Arkansas City, Cowley County, Kansas, United States of AmericaDeath: 1923 – 1982 San Mateo, San Mateo, California, USAFather: Frank ChaneyMother: Marie Minnie PotterReliability Score: B
-
JCJohn ChaneyBirth: 1790 – 1881 Washington County, Maryland, USADeath: 1790 – 1881 Canal Winchester, Fairfield, Ohio, USAFather: Nathan CheneyMother: Hannah DawsonReliability Score: N/AJCJohn ChaneyBirth: 1790 – 1881 Washington County, Maryland, USADeath: 1790 – 1881 Canal Winchester, Fairfield, Ohio, USAFather: Nathan CheneyMother: Hannah DawsonReliability Score: N/A
-
RCRichard P ChaneyBirth: 1927 – 1976 OregonDeath: 1927 – 1976 San Joaquin County, CaliforniaFather: Valen Porter ChaneyMother: Ida Gwendolyn WrightReliability Score: BRCRichard P ChaneyBirth: 1927 – 1976 OregonDeath: 1927 – 1976 San Joaquin County, CaliforniaFather: Valen Porter ChaneyMother: Ida Gwendolyn WrightReliability Score: B
-
RCRichard ChaneyBirth: 1565 – 1625 London, Middlesex, , EnglandDeath: 1565 – 1625 London, Middlesex, , EnglandFather: Richard CheneyMother: Mary LnuReliability Score: CRCRichard ChaneyBirth: 1565 – 1625 London, Middlesex, , EnglandDeath: 1565 – 1625 London, Middlesex, , EnglandFather: Richard CheneyMother: Mary LnuReliability Score: C
Search more trees & records for
Chaney for free
SIGNUP
Tracing Your Chaney Family Lineage
Origin of the Chaney Family: Where does the Chaney surname come from?
The Chaney surname first appeared in the records of the YourRoots database during the early 12th century, indicating its origins in England. This early presence marks the beginning of the Chaney family tree, suggesting a lineage that has deep roots in the British Isles. As the surname emerged, it signaled the start of familial connections that would expand and evolve over subsequent centuries.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Chaney
During the 12th to 15th centuries, the Chaney family began to establish itself in various regions of England, particularly in areas that would later become significant for their agricultural and social development. Throughout these centuries, the family lines diversified, with branches forming as individuals sought new opportunities and settled in different locales. This period saw the Chaney families grow their heritage, intertwining with other surnames and expanding their family trees.
By the late 15th century, the Chaney name was increasingly recognized, with the family becoming more prominent in English society. The records from the YourRoots database show notable increases in the number of Chaney individuals, indicating a flourishing lineage during this time. The foundations laid during this period would serve as a springboard for future generations.
Tracing the Chaney Family Tree Through the Centuries
The expansion of the Chaney surname became particularly pronounced during the 17th century, as many family members migrated to the United States, seeking new beginnings in a foreign land. This migration led to a significant concentration of Chaney families in North America, where they established roots and contributed to the growing population. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the surname spread widely across the continent, with families branching out into various regions and states, further diversifying their genealogy.
During the late 19th century and into the 20th century, the Chaney name continued to flourish in the United States, with family trees growing increasingly complex as descendants formed new branches. The global spread of the surname reflects not only migration patterns but also the intertwining of cultures and communities. These developments illustrate the rich tapestry of the Chaney family heritage, connecting individuals across time and geography.
Where to Find Chaney Genealogy Records Today
In the modern centuries, the Chaney surname has established a robust presence, particularly in the United States, where it has become a common and recognizable name. The YourRoots database serves as a valuable resource for those interested in tracing their Chaney lineage, offering insights into familial connections that span generations. Readers are encouraged to delve into the extensive records available to explore their own family tree and uncover the stories of their Chaney ancestors.
Famous People with Chaney (and Their Family Tree)
Lon Chaney
Leonidas Frank "Lon" Chaney, born on April 1, 1883, was a groundbreaking American actor renowned for his extraordinary versatility and skill as a makeup artist in early cinema, earning the moniker "The Man of a Thousand Faces." Chaney's illustrious career in silent horror films, such as "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" (1923) and "The Phantom of the Opera" (1925), showcased his ability to portray complex, afflicted characters. His landmark performance in "The Miracle Man" (1919) cemented his status as a leading character actor and makeup innovator in Hollywood.
Lon Chaney was born in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to Frank H. Chaney, a barber of English and French descent, and Emma Alice Kennedy, of Scottish, English, and Irish ancestry. His maternal grandfather, Jonathan Ralston Kennedy, founded the "Colorado School for the Education of Mutes," where Chaney's parents met. Notably, both of Chaney's parents were deaf, which led to his proficiency in American Sign Language, shaping his early communication skills and stage career.
Lawrence Chaney
Lawrence Chaney, born Lawrence Maidment on October 16, 1996, is a renowned Scottish drag queen based in Glasgow, best known for winning the second series of RuPaul's Drag Race UK. This milestone made them the first Scottish and second Plus Size winner in the franchise's history. Chaney's career highlights include their own online television series, "Tartan Around," and a BAFTA Scotland Audience Award. They have collaborated with BBC Sounds and toured with the United Kingdolls, further solidifying their influence in the drag and entertainment community.
Norman "Chubby" Chaney
Chaney Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Chaney" is associated with a variety of notable individuals across diverse fields, including American musicians, athletes, politicians, and actors, as well as Australian politicians and businessmen. The name also appears in fictional works, such as characters in "The Illuminatus! Trilogy" and "True Grit."
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Chaney
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 Chaney family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Chaney surname to learn more.
VIEW MOREAbout YourRoots
Explore your family tree geographically
Import your GEDCOM file to transform your family tree into an interactive global map. See your roots laid out visually and understand your true geographic heritage.
Powerful tools like “Trace Back To Me” instantly map your family’s migration paths from a chosen ancestor all the way back to you.
Discover ancestors beyond “end-of-line” automatically
Import your family tree and let AI expand it for you. AI Ancestor Finder scans “end-of-line” ancestors to uncover their parents across hundreds of family lines at once. AI Deep Research analyzes selected ancestors and family clusters, suggesting relevant records and next steps.
Turn on Auto Research Mode to get new discoveries daily or weekly, so your tree keeps growing even while you’re away.
Find more DNA matches across all DNA tests
Combine your DNA data with your family tree to unlock the full power of YourRoots DNA Match. Connect with relatives across major testing services — Ancestry, 23andMe, MyHeritage, and more.
View your matches’ maps and trees to identify shared ancestors, and soon you’ll be able to add them directly to your own tree and map.
Ancestry DNA analysis that goes deeper than others
Unlock exclusive reports that reveal your deeper origins.
- Deep Ancestry Report — Analyze 130+ ethnicities, sub-regions, and 1,800+ communities in one detailed view.
- Global & Native American Reports — Developed with Stanford researchers to uncover hidden ancestries across all 22 chromosomes.
- Ancient DNA Series — Compare your DNA with 1,000+ ancient genomes from Viking, Celtic, and early American civilizations.
Sign up to explore more
Create a free account to navigate family trees, view ancestors, and discover connections.
Sign up freeAlready have an account? Log in