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Sign up freeDraper Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Draper Surname
The Draper surname originates as an occupational name from England, signifying a merchant in cloth or dry goods. Emerging in the early 14th century, it quickly became a marker of identity for those involved in the textile trade. This name is emblematic of the historical significance and social roles played by its bearers within English society.
Over the centuries, the Draper name evolved and spread geographically, reflecting the movement and growth of its bearers. Initially prominent in England, particularly in trade hubs, the surname gained traction by the 15th century as families intermarried and settled across different regions. By the 18th and 19th centuries, the Draper family tree extended across the Atlantic, establishing a strong presence in North America. This expansion continued into the 20th century, with branches spreading to Australia and other parts of the world.
YourRoots data enriches this narrative, confirming the Draper family's English origins in the 14th century and highlighting its growth through key historical periods. The Draper lineage flourished in trade-centric areas during the 15th and 16th centuries, aligning with its occupational roots. The 18th century marked a significant point of expansion as Draper families sought opportunities in North America, further diversifying their genealogical branches.
Today, Draper genealogy records provide a comprehensive view of this surname's global journey, with YourRoots offering valuable insights for researchers. The data underscores the Draper surname's adaptability and enduring presence, making it a rich subject for those exploring their Draper family tree or genealogy.
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Records
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ADAbigail Draper1681–1767Public Tree Person6 treesScore: AADAbigail Draper1681–1767Public Tree Person6 treesScore: A
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RDRuth Draper1718–1763Public Tree Person3 treesScore: ARDRuth Draper1718–1763Public Tree Person3 treesScore: A
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TDThomas Gunston Draper1542–1603Public Tree Person17 treesScore: BTDThomas Gunston Draper1542–1603Public Tree Person17 treesScore: B
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MDMary Ann Draper1718–1761Public Tree Person5 treesScore: BMDMary Ann Draper1718–1761Public Tree Person5 treesScore: B
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ADAbraham Draper1578–1635Public Tree Person5 treesScore: BADAbraham Draper1578–1635Public Tree Person5 treesScore: B
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WDWilliam Draper1578–1635Public Tree Person5 treesScore: BWDWilliam Draper1578–1635Public Tree Person5 treesScore: B
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JDJohn George Draper1702–1748Public Tree Person4 treesScore: BJDJohn George Draper1702–1748Public Tree Person4 treesScore: B
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MDMinta Jane Draper1867–1900Public Tree Person4 treesScore: BMDMinta Jane Draper1867–1900Public Tree Person4 treesScore: B
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MDMoses Draper1663–1693Public Tree Person4 treesScore: BMDMoses Draper1663–1693Public Tree Person4 treesScore: B
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KDKatherine Draper1728–1763Public Tree Person3 treesScore: BKDKatherine Draper1728–1763Public Tree Person3 treesScore: B
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JDJames Draper1715–1806Public Tree Person3 treesScore: BJDJames Draper1715–1806Public Tree Person3 treesScore: B
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RDReuben Draper1751–1782Public Tree Person3 treesScore: BRDReuben Draper1751–1782Public Tree Person3 treesScore: B
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ADAbijah Draper1737–1780Public Tree Person3 treesScore: BADAbijah Draper1737–1780Public Tree Person3 treesScore: B
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MDMargaret Draper1633–1681Public Tree Person7 treesScore: CMDMargaret Draper1633–1681Public Tree Person7 treesScore: C
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MDMarie Margaret Draper1612–1672Public Tree Person5 treesScore: CMDMarie Margaret Draper1612–1672Public Tree Person5 treesScore: C
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BDBasilius "Basil" Waringe , Draper1584–1648Public Tree Person3 treesScore: CBDBasilius "Basil" Waringe , Draper1584–1648Public Tree Person3 treesScore: C
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SDSamuel Draper1713–1744Public Tree Person3 treesScore: CSDSamuel Draper1713–1744Public Tree Person3 treesScore: C
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TdThomas Bryan Sir draper1554–1611Public Tree Person3 treesScore: CTdThomas Bryan Sir draper1554–1611Public Tree Person3 treesScore: C
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DDDorothy Draper1649–1688Public Tree Person3 treesScore: CDDDorothy Draper1649–1688Public Tree Person3 treesScore: C
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LDLydia Draper1750–1830Public Tree Person3 treesScore: CLDLydia Draper1750–1830Public Tree Person3 treesScore: C
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ADAbigail Draper1663–1721Individual Tree PersonParents: Nathaniel Whiting & Hannah DwightScore: AADAbigail Draper1663–1721Individual Tree PersonParents: Nathaniel Whiting & Hannah DwightScore: A
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ADAbigail Draper1663–1721Individual Tree PersonParents: Nathaniel Whiting & Hannah ImmigrantScore: AADAbigail Draper1663–1721Individual Tree PersonParents: Nathaniel Whiting & Hannah ImmigrantScore: A
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ADAbigail Draper1681–1767Individual Tree PersonParents: James Draper & Abigail WhitingSpouse: James GriggsChildren: Ebenezer, James, Abigail, George, Mary, John, William, Jeremiah, Jemima, Nathaniel, Eunice, RuthScore: AADAbigail Draper1681–1767Individual Tree PersonParents: James Draper & Abigail WhitingSpouse: James GriggsChildren: Ebenezer, James, Abigail, George, Mary, John, William, Jeremiah, Jemima, Nathaniel, Eunice, RuthScore: A
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ADAbigail Draper1681–1767Individual Tree PersonParents: James ♦ & Abigail WhitingSpouse: James ♦Children: Nathaniel, Mary, Jeremiah, William, Abigail, James, George, John, Ebenezer, RuthScore: AADAbigail Draper1681–1767Individual Tree PersonParents: James ♦ & Abigail WhitingSpouse: James ♦Children: Nathaniel, Mary, Jeremiah, William, Abigail, James, George, John, Ebenezer, RuthScore: A
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ADAbigail Draper1712–1782Individual Tree PersonParents: Jonathan Draper & Sarah JacksonScore: BADAbigail Draper1712–1782Individual Tree PersonParents: Jonathan Draper & Sarah JacksonScore: B
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ADAbigail Draper1663–1721Individual Tree PersonParents: Nathaniell Whitney & Hannah DwightScore: BADAbigail Draper1663–1721Individual Tree PersonParents: Nathaniell Whitney & Hannah DwightScore: B
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ADAaron Draper1734–1762Individual Tree PersonParents: Thomas Sr & Relief HydeScore: BADAaron Draper1734–1762Individual Tree PersonParents: Thomas Sr & Relief HydeScore: B
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ADAbigail Draper1714–1729Individual Tree PersonParents: Gideon Draper & Abigail ♦Score: BADAbigail Draper1714–1729Individual Tree PersonParents: Gideon Draper & Abigail ♦Score: B
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ADAbigail (twin to Benjamin) Draper1761–1829Individual Tree PersonParents: Gideon Draper & Dorotha BarrettScore: BADAbigail (twin to Benjamin) Draper1761–1829Individual Tree PersonParents: Gideon Draper & Dorotha BarrettScore: B
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ADAbigail Draper1686–1730Individual Tree PersonParents: John Draper & Abigail MasonSpouse: John BattleChildren: AbigailScore: BADAbigail Draper1686–1730Individual Tree PersonParents: John Draper & Abigail MasonSpouse: John BattleChildren: AbigailScore: B
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ADAbigail Draper1686–1730Individual Tree PersonParents: John Draper & Abigail MasonSpouse: John BattelleChildren: Abigail, John, Mary, John, JamesScore: CADAbigail Draper1686–1730Individual Tree PersonParents: John Draper & Abigail MasonSpouse: John BattelleChildren: Abigail, John, Mary, John, JamesScore: C
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ADAaron Draper1795–1860Individual Tree PersonParents: William Jr. & Sarah BarnesSpouse: Eliza TuckerChildren: Eliza, Mary, NancyScore: CADAaron Draper1795–1860Individual Tree PersonParents: William Jr. & Sarah BarnesSpouse: Eliza TuckerChildren: Eliza, Mary, NancyScore: C
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ADAaron Draper1735–1762Individual Tree PersonParents: Thomas Draper & Relief HydeSpouse: Mary FisherScore: CADAaron Draper1735–1762Individual Tree PersonParents: Thomas Draper & Relief HydeSpouse: Mary FisherScore: C
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ADAbigail Draper1741–1829Individual Tree PersonParents: Thomas Draper & Relief HydeSpouse: Alexander Shepherd, David LyonScore: CADAbigail Draper1741–1829Individual Tree PersonParents: Thomas Draper & Relief HydeSpouse: Alexander Shepherd, David LyonScore: C
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ADAbigail Draper1813–1904Individual Tree PersonParents: James Draper & Esther WallerSpouse: John MurphyChildren: EmmaScore: CADAbigail Draper1813–1904Individual Tree PersonParents: James Draper & Esther WallerSpouse: John MurphyChildren: EmmaScore: C
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ADAbigail Draper1730–1780Individual Tree PersonParents: John Draper & Mariah HallSpouse: Alexander ShepardChildren: AbigailScore: CADAbigail Draper1730–1780Individual Tree PersonParents: John Draper & Mariah HallSpouse: Alexander ShepardChildren: AbigailScore: C
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Tracing Your Draper Family Lineage
Origin of the Draper Family: Where does the Draper surname come from?
The Draper surname first emerged in England during the early 14th century, marking the beginning of a rich genealogical lineage. This early appearance connects the Draper family to the historical fabric of English society, where the name likely originated from an occupational designation for a cloth merchant or trader. As families began to establish their roots, the Draper name became a significant marker of identity and lineage in the region.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Draper
Throughout the centuries, the Draper family expanded its presence primarily in England, particularly notable in regions that were centers of trade and commerce. By the 15th century, the name had gained traction, with several branches emerging as families intermarried and settled in various areas. This period saw a substantial increase in the Draper lineage, as families began to build their family trees, intertwining their fates with the broader historical events unfolding in England.
In the 16th century, the Draper surname continued to flourish, with families establishing themselves in key urban centers as well as rural areas. As the family trees branched out, the Draper name became associated with a variety of trades and professions, reflecting the adaptability and resilience of its bearers. This growth laid the foundation for future generations, who would further disperse the Draper lineage beyond the borders of England.
Tracing the Draper Family Tree Through the Centuries
The global expansion of the Draper surname became evident in the 18th century as families sought new opportunities across the Atlantic, particularly in North America. By the 19th century, the Draper name was firmly established in the United States, where it encountered fresh avenues for growth and development. As families migrated for various reasons, including economic opportunities and social changes, the Draper family tree diversified, leading to a rich tapestry of branches across different regions.
In the 20th century, further migration continued to shape the Draper family narrative, with individuals and families resettling in places such as Australia. This international spread illustrates the adaptability of the Draper lineage, as descendants embraced new cultures while maintaining their genealogical roots. The broader family history of Draper now reflects a global presence, with connections that span multiple continents and generations.
Where to Find Draper Genealogy Records Today
In the modern centuries, the Draper surname remains prevalent, particularly in regions such as the United States and Australia, where many descendants continue to thrive. The continued interest in genealogy has led to an increasing number of records available, allowing individuals to trace their Draper lineage and connect with distant relatives. Readers are encouraged to explore the Draper genealogy records
Famous People with Draper (and Their Family Tree)
Don Draper
Donald Francis "Don" Draper, originally born as Richard "Dick" Whitman, is the iconic protagonist of AMC's Mad Men, portrayed by Jon Hamm. As the enigmatic creative director at Sterling Cooper, Draper is celebrated for his advertising acumen, a talent that made him indispensable in the competitive world of 1960s Madison Avenue. Draper's character is inspired by real-life advertising legends like Draper Daniels and Bill Backer. Despite his professional success, Draper's personal life is marked by identity struggles, numerous affairs, and alcoholism, which contribute to his complex and troubled persona.
Don Draper was born as Dick Whitman in Bunbury, Illinois, to Evangeline, a prostitute, and Archibald "Archie" Whitman, an abusive farmer. His mother died during childbirth, and he was raised by Archie and his wife, Abigail. Draper's tumultuous childhood, witnessing his father's violent death and enduring a troubled upbringing, significantly shaped his later life. Draper assumed his new identity during the Korean War by switching dog tags with a deceased lieutenant, leading to his eventual rise in the advertising world.
Jack Draper
Jack Alexander Draper, born on December 22, 2001, is an English professional tennis player who achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of world No. 6 on April 7, 2025. Known for his powerful gameplay, Draper has won three ATP Tour titles, including a significant victory at the 2025 Indian Wells Masters 1000 event. His career is marked by reaching the semifinal of the 2024 US Open and consistently performing well on the ATP Challenger Tour with five titles. Draper made headlines with a top 10 win against world No. 5 Stefanos Tsitsipas at the 2022 Canadian Open, showcasing his potential in the tennis world.
Jack Draper hails from a tennis-oriented family in Sutton, London, and grew up in Ashtead, Surrey. His father, Roger Draper, is a prominent figure in sports management, having served as the chief executive of Sport England and the Lawn Tennis Association. His mother, Nicky Draper, is a former junior British tennis champion, highlighting a strong familial connection to tennis. Draper's early education included time at Parkside School and Reed's School, both in Cobham, where he began honing his tennis skills.
Betty Draper
Elizabeth "Betty" Draper Francis, née Hofstadt, is a fictional character from AMC's acclaimed series Mad Men, portrayed by January Jones. Betty, known for her Grace Kelly-like beauty and emotional distance, evolves amid 1960s societal changes. Initially married to protagonist Don Draper, played by Jon Hamm, she undergoes personal growth following their separation. Jones' portrayal earned her two Golden Globe nominations, a Primetime Emmy nomination, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards with the Mad Men ensemble, marking her role as iconic in television history.
Betty was born Elizabeth Hofstadt in 1932, with roots in Cape May, New Jersey, and was raised in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania. Of German ancestry, she attended Bryn Mawr College and briefly modeled in Italy before marrying Don Draper in 1953. Her family included her late mother Ruth, her father Gene, and brother William, highlighting a complex family dynamic that influenced her character's development.
Polly Draper
Polly Carey Draper is an acclaimed American actress, writer, producer, and director known for her "trademark throaty voice." She gained fame for starring in the ABC drama series "Thirtysomething" from 1987 to 1991, earning an Emmy nomination. Draper is celebrated for her creative projects, including the film "The Tic Code" and the Nickelodeon series "The Naked Brothers Band," which won her a Writers Guild of America Award. Her versatile career also includes roles in "The Larry Sanders Show," "Monk," and the film "Shiva Baby," highlighting her dynamic presence in both television and film.
Born on June 15, 1955, in Gary, Indiana, Draper hails from a notable family. Her mother, Phyllis, worked as a Peace Corps administrator, while her father, William Henry Draper III, was a prominent figure as the CEO of the United Nations Development Programme. Her grandfather, William Henry Draper Jr., was a distinguished banker and diplomat. Draper grew up in Chicago, Illinois, and California, and her familial ties include her brother, venture capitalist Tim Draper, and sister Rebecca Draper.
Derek Draper
Derek William Draper (1967–2024) was a prominent English political lobbyist and psychotherapist. Known for his involvement in major political scandals, he played key roles in "Lobbygate" in 1998 and a 2009 scandal while editing LabourList. Draper authored "Blair's 100 Days" and "Life Support" and held influential positions, including working closely with Peter Mandelson and creating the New Labour organisation Progress. Later, he transitioned to psychotherapy, obtaining an MA in clinical psychology, and contributed to publications like the Mail on Sunday. Draper's battle with a severe case of long COVID, which led to his hospitalization and ultimately his death, made headlines in recent years.
Draper Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Draper" originates from the occupation of a draper, which was a merchant dealing in cloth or dry goods. It is relatively common in the United States, ranking as the 1365th most common surname.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Draper
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 Draper family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Draper surname to learn more.
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