Crittenden Family Genealogy & History

John Jordan Crittenden was a prominent American statesman from Kentucky, serving in the U.S. House of Representatives, the U.S. Senate, and twice as U.S. Attorney General under Presidents William Henry Harrison, John Tyler, and Millard Fillmore. He was Kentucky's 17th governor and played a key role in the National Republican (later Whig) Party, becoming a protégé of Henry Clay. Known for the Crittenden Compromise, he sought to prevent the Civil War by urging moderation on slavery. His political journey also included forming the Constitutional Union Party, though he declined its presidential nomination in 1860.

John J. Crittenden was born on September 10, 1787, near Versailles, Kentucky, to Revolutionary War veteran Major John Crittenden and Judith Harris. He was of Welsh and French Huguenot descent. The Crittenden family included four sons and five daughters, with John being the first son. His father, who surveyed land with George Rogers Clark, settled in Kentucky post-American Revolution. Among his siblings, two brothers became lawyers, while another pursued farming.

Danielle Crittenden, born on April 20, 1963, in Toronto, Ontario, is a notable Canadian-American author and journalist. With a career beginning as a reporter at the Toronto Sun, she has authored influential works such as "What Our Mothers Didn't Tell Us: Why Happiness Eludes the Modern Woman." Her writing spans various genres, including novels like "Amanda Bright@Home" and collaborations such as "From a Polish Country House Kitchen" with Anne Applebaum. Crittenden has made significant contributions to journalism and literature, earning recognition for her insightful commentary on modern women's issues.

Danielle Crittenden's family background reflects a strong journalistic lineage. She is the daughter of Max Crittenden, a former editor at the Toronto Telegram, and Yvonne Crittenden, a journalist and book critic. Her stepfather, Peter Worthington, was also a journalist, indicating a rich family history in media and writing.

Lisa Crittenden, born in 1962, is a renowned Australian former actress celebrated for her versatile roles in television series. She gained fame with her performances in "The Restless Years" as Briony Thompson, "The Sullivans" as Sally Meredith, and as Maxine Daniels in "Prisoner" from 1982 to 1983. Her portrayal of Leigh Palmer in "Sons and Daughters" and appearances in "Rafferty's Rules" and New Zealand's "Shortland Street" as Carrie Burton further solidified her status. Crittenden also featured in "Blue Heelers," the mini-series "Whose Baby?" and had a memorable guest role in "Xena: Warrior Princess" as Hecuba, Gabrielle's mother.

George Bibb Crittenden (1812–1880) was a prominent 19th-century military figure who served in both the United States and Confederate States armies. Notably, he participated in the Black Hawk War and the Mexican-American War, earning a brevet promotion for his actions in battles such as Contreras and Churubusco. Despite facing personal challenges, including issues with alcohol, Crittenden rose to the rank of major general in the Confederate Army. His military career was marked by significant events, including the Battle of Mill Springs, although allegations of intoxication persisted throughout his service, ultimately leading to his resignation.

George B. Crittenden was born to a politically influential family in Russellville, Kentucky. His father, John J. Crittenden, was a significant political figure, serving as governor of Kentucky, U.S. Attorney General, and U.S. Senator. George's family connections extended to his mother, Sarah Lee, a cousin of President Zachary Taylor. The Crittenden family was embedded in politics and law, with relatives serving in various prominent roles, including his brother, Thomas L. Crittenden, who was a Union major general during the Civil War.