Culbertson Family Genealogy & History

Brian Culbertson, born January 12, 1973, in Decatur, Illinois, is a renowned American musician celebrated for his contributions to smooth jazz, R&B, and funk. Proficient in synthesizer, piano, and trombone, Culbertson has built a prolific career with 20 solo albums, including the acclaimed "Another Long Night Out" and "XX." His talent has earned him numerous accolades, such as the 2010 Canadian Smooth Jazz Award for Best International Artist and multiple Oasis Smooth Jazz Awards. Known for his dynamic live performances, Culbertson has also made a significant mark with his Napa Valley Jazz Getaway, a successful annual event.

Brian Culbertson's musical journey was influenced by his upbringing in a musical household, with his father serving as a music teacher at MacArthur High School, where Brian himself graduated. He later met his wife, Michelle Culbertson, at DePaul University, cementing a personal and professional partnership that has enriched his musical ventures.

Ely Culbertson, an influential contract bridge entrepreneur, dominated the 1930s bridge scene. Known as "the man who made contract bridge," Culbertson was a key figure in the game's popularization. His career highlights include organizing high-profile challenge matches like the "Bridge Battle of the Century" against Sidney Lenz, founding The Bridge World magazine, and developing the Culbertson bidding system. His efforts as a player, theorist, and publicist significantly boosted bridge's popularity, making him a household name.

Ely Culbertson was born in Poiana Vărbilău, Romania, to an American mining engineer, Almon Culbertson, and his Russian wife, Xenya Rogoznaya. This multicultural background influenced his extraordinary linguistic abilities and diverse educational pursuits in Europe.

Rod Culbertson, born on April 28, 1950, in Sunderland, County Durham, is a distinguished English actor known for his extensive work in both stage and screen. A notable alumnus of the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, Culbertson's career highlights include his role as Paul McCartney in the film "Birth of The Beatles," directed by Richard Marquand. He also appeared in the film "Elizabeth" as Master Ridley and performed in the National Youth Theatre production of "Zigger Zagger" in 1967. Culbertson's contributions to the arts have made him a respected figure in the acting community.

Edgar A. Culbertson was a distinguished United States Coast Guard Boatswain's Mate First Class (BM1) known for his heroism. Born on October 13, 1935, in Ferndale, Michigan, Culbertson bravely served since 1952 and was a veteran of the Korean War. He tragically lost his life on April 30, 1967, while attempting to rescue three teenage brothers during a storm in Duluth, Minnesota. His selfless actions during this perilous mission earned him the Coast Guard Medal, the highest peacetime honor for heroism. To commemorate his bravery, the Coast Guard announced that a Sentinel class cutter would be named USCGC Edgar Culbertson. His legacy is further honored at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.