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Sign up freeDurham Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Durham Surname
The Durham surname has its origins in England, where it first appeared in genealogical records. Historically, the name is associated with the city of Durham in Northeast England, which suggests geographical roots rather than an occupational or personal name origin. The surname gained recognition over the centuries, becoming a part of England's rich tapestry of family histories.
The Durham family tree began to spread geographically as early as the 11th century, with a notable increase in prominence during the 12th and 13th centuries. This era marked an expansion of the surname's presence across England, reflecting the family's growing social and economic status. By the 16th century, the Durham surname had crossed the Atlantic, firmly establishing itself in the Americas. The 17th century saw a significant rise in the Durham name in the United States, as families sought new opportunities and began to create new branches of the family tree.
YourRoots data provides valuable insights into the Durham genealogy, confirming the surname's early presence in England and its subsequent expansion. The records highlight the evolution of the Durham family through the centuries, emphasizing their migration patterns and socio-economic diversification. The YourRoots database serves as a critical resource for understanding the Durham family's historical trajectory and their impact on both English and American societies.
For genealogy enthusiasts and family-tree researchers, YourRoots data offers a comprehensive view of Durham records, linking historical documentation with modern research. This connection between past and present enriches the pursuit of tracing one's ancestry and exploring the expansive Durham family tree.
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SDSina DurhamBirth: 1750 – 1810 Prince William, Virginia, United StatesDeath: 1750 – 1810 Abbeville, Abbeville, South Carolina, United StatesFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: BSDSina DurhamBirth: 1750 – 1810 Prince William, Virginia, United StatesDeath: 1750 – 1810 Abbeville, Abbeville, South Carolina, United StatesFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: B
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WDWilliam DurhamBirth: 1776 – 1852 Carolina, Carolina, Puerto Rico, United StatesDeath: 1776 – 1852 Sumner, Tennessee, United StatesFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: CWDWilliam DurhamBirth: 1776 – 1852 Carolina, Carolina, Puerto Rico, United StatesDeath: 1776 – 1852 Sumner, Tennessee, United StatesFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: C
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JDJohn DurhamBirth: 1775 – 1860 Warren, North Carolina, United StatesDeath: 1775 – 1860 Barry, Missouri, United StatesFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: CJDJohn DurhamBirth: 1775 – 1860 Warren, North Carolina, United StatesDeath: 1775 – 1860 Barry, Missouri, United StatesFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: C
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TDThomas DurhamBirth: 1614 – 1653 Pittington, County Durham, England, United KingdomDeath: 1614 – 1653 Port Royal, Carine County, BermudesFather: Sir William DurhamMother: Margaret JohnsonReliability Score: BTDThomas DurhamBirth: 1614 – 1653 Pittington, County Durham, England, United KingdomDeath: 1614 – 1653 Port Royal, Carine County, BermudesFather: Sir William DurhamMother: Margaret JohnsonReliability Score: B
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JDJohn DurhamBirth: 1742 – 1817 Fauquier, VA, USADeath: 1742 – 1817 Mercer County, United States of AmericaFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: CJDJohn DurhamBirth: 1742 – 1817 Fauquier, VA, USADeath: 1742 – 1817 Mercer County, United States of AmericaFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: C
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GDGrizel DurhamBirth: 1610 – 1666 Perth, Perthshire, ScotlandDeath: 1610 – 1666 Country, Cullman, Alabama, United StatesFather: Alexander DURHAMMother: Jean RamsayReliability Score: N/AGDGrizel DurhamBirth: 1610 – 1666 Perth, Perthshire, ScotlandDeath: 1610 – 1666 Country, Cullman, Alabama, United StatesFather: Alexander DURHAMMother: Jean RamsayReliability Score: N/A
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JDJames B. DurhamBirth: 1760 – 1846 Fauquier County, Virginia, USADeath: 1760 – 1846 Warren County, North Carolina, USAFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: CJDJames B. DurhamBirth: 1760 – 1846 Fauquier County, Virginia, USADeath: 1760 – 1846 Warren County, North Carolina, USAFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: C
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ADAlexander DURHAMBirth: 1592 – 1621 Pittkarrow, Angus, ScotlandDeath: 1592 – 1621 Monifieth, Angus, ScotlandFather: Sir James DurhamMother: Janet WishartReliability Score: N/AADAlexander DURHAMBirth: 1592 – 1621 Pittkarrow, Angus, ScotlandDeath: 1592 – 1621 Monifieth, Angus, ScotlandFather: Sir James DurhamMother: Janet WishartReliability Score: N/A
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SDSusan DurhamBirth: 1760 – 1780 Halifax, Halifax, North Carolina, United StatesDeath: 1760 – 1780 Warren, North Carolina, United StatesFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: CSDSusan DurhamBirth: 1760 – 1780 Halifax, Halifax, North Carolina, United StatesDeath: 1760 – 1780 Warren, North Carolina, United StatesFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: C
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SDSamuel DurhamBirth: 1752 – 1837 Fauquier, VA, USADeath: 1752 – 1837 Saloma, Green, Kentucky, United StatesFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: CSDSamuel DurhamBirth: 1752 – 1837 Fauquier, VA, USADeath: 1752 – 1837 Saloma, Green, Kentucky, United StatesFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: C
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SDStella D DurhamBirth: 1921 – 1989 ArkansasDeath: 1921 – 1989 Connersville, Fayette, INFather: William (Rock) Green DurhamMother: Mary Ann SummersReliability Score: ASDStella D DurhamBirth: 1921 – 1989 ArkansasDeath: 1921 – 1989 Connersville, Fayette, INFather: William (Rock) Green DurhamMother: Mary Ann SummersReliability Score: A
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LDLeroy DurhamBirth: 1919 – 1994 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, United States of AmericaDeath: 1919 – 1994 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, United States of AmericaFather: James William DurhamMother: Beatrice CainReliability Score: BLDLeroy DurhamBirth: 1919 – 1994 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, United States of AmericaDeath: 1919 – 1994 Evansville, Vanderburgh County, Indiana, United States of AmericaFather: James William DurhamMother: Beatrice CainReliability Score: B
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DDDella DurhamBirth: 1917 – 1923 Rockcastle Co.,KYDeath: 1917 – 1923 Barr, Lauderdale, TNFather: William (Rock) Green DurhamMother: Mary Ann SummersReliability Score: BDDDella DurhamBirth: 1917 – 1923 Rockcastle Co.,KYDeath: 1917 – 1923 Barr, Lauderdale, TNFather: William (Rock) Green DurhamMother: Mary Ann SummersReliability Score: B
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PDPeter DurhamBirth: 1658 – 1684 Plymouth, Plymouth, Massachusetts, United StatesDeath: 1658 – 1684 Erie, New YorkFather: Samuel DurhamMother: Martha BealReliability Score: N/APDPeter DurhamBirth: 1658 – 1684 Plymouth, Plymouth, Massachusetts, United StatesDeath: 1658 – 1684 Erie, New YorkFather: Samuel DurhamMother: Martha BealReliability Score: N/A
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SDSusanah DurhamBirth: 1744 – 1814 Warren, North Carolina, United StatesDeath: 1744 – 1814 Simpson, Kentucky, United StatesFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: CSDSusanah DurhamBirth: 1744 – 1814 Warren, North Carolina, United StatesDeath: 1744 – 1814 Simpson, Kentucky, United StatesFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: C
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WDWilliam DurhamBirth: 1741 – 1822 Warren County, North Carolina, USADeath: 1741 – 1822 Warren County, North Carolina, USAFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: CWDWilliam DurhamBirth: 1741 – 1822 Warren County, North Carolina, USADeath: 1741 – 1822 Warren County, North Carolina, USAFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: C
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JDJane DurhamBirth: 1739 – 1753 St Pauls Parrish, Stafford, Virginia, United StatesDeath: 1739 – 1753 Warren County, North Carolina, USAFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: CJDJane DurhamBirth: 1739 – 1753 St Pauls Parrish, Stafford, Virginia, United StatesDeath: 1739 – 1753 Warren County, North Carolina, USAFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: C
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VDVackel Louise DurhamBirth: 1926 – 1989 Spencer County, Indiana, USADeath: 1926 – 1989 Evansville, Vanderburgh, Indiana, USAFather: Arthur J TurpenMother: Grace B. HaydenReliability Score: BVDVackel Louise DurhamBirth: 1926 – 1989 Spencer County, Indiana, USADeath: 1926 – 1989 Evansville, Vanderburgh, Indiana, USAFather: Arthur J TurpenMother: Grace B. HaydenReliability Score: B
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SDSir William Belassis High Sheriff of DurhamBirth: 1588 – 1641 Durham, EnglandDeath: 1588 – 1641 Houghton Le Spring, Durham, EnglandFather: Lord Bryan BelasyseMother: Mergaret Lee, DE Leigh OR LeighReliability Score: N/ASDSir William Belassis High Sheriff of DurhamBirth: 1588 – 1641 Durham, EnglandDeath: 1588 – 1641 Houghton Le Spring, Durham, EnglandFather: Lord Bryan BelasyseMother: Mergaret Lee, DE Leigh OR LeighReliability Score: N/A
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WDWilliam DurhamBirth: 1745 – 1822 Fauquier, Virginia, United StatesDeath: 1745 – 1822 Sumner, Tennessee, United StatesFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: CWDWilliam DurhamBirth: 1745 – 1822 Fauquier, Virginia, United StatesDeath: 1745 – 1822 Sumner, Tennessee, United StatesFather: William John DurhamMother: Margaret ColcloughReliability Score: C
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Tracing Your Durham Family Lineage
Origin of the Durham Family: Where does the Durham surname come from?
The Durham surname traces its earliest known origins to England, where it first appears in genealogical records. This initial documentation marks the beginning of the family tree, providing a foundation for the exploration of Durham lineage and connections. The historical context of the time in England offers insights into the early roots of the family, suggesting a rich backdrop for subsequent generations.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Durham
During the 11th century, the Durham family began to establish itself in England, with notable concentrations in specific regions that would later contribute to the family’s growth. As the centuries progressed, particularly into the 12th and 13th centuries, the surname saw increased presence, indicating the expansion of family branches and the emergence of distinct lineages. This period was crucial for the Durham family, as they began to forge connections with other families, laying the groundwork for future genealogical developments.
The 14th and 15th centuries saw the Durham family continuing to flourish within England, solidifying their presence across various counties. As they established farms and trades, the family's socio-economic status began to diversify, allowing for further expansion of family trees. This evolutionary process would set the stage for their eventual migration and growth beyond English borders.
Tracing the Durham Family Tree Through the Centuries
In the 16th century, the Durham surname began to spread beyond England, with significant migration to the Americas. This trend accelerated in the 17th century as families sought new opportunities, leading to a substantial increase in the surname's presence in the United States. The following centuries witnessed the Durham family continuing to branch out, with roots forming in various regions across North America, showcasing a dynamic evolution of the family tree.
By the 19th century, the Durham family had established a prominent foothold in the United States, with numbers soaring as families expanded and intermarried. This period marked a transformative era for the surname, as it became more widespread and recognized in the new world. The 20th century further solidified this global presence, with the Durham lineage appearing in diverse communities, indicating a robust and interconnected family history.
Where to Find Durham Genealogy Records Today
Today, the Durham surname continues to thrive as families explore their genealogy and connections across the globe. In the early 21st century, the surname maintains a notable presence in the United States, providing numerous opportunities for individuals to trace their ancestry and family ties. Readers are encouraged to explore the extensive records available in the YourRoots database to connect with their own Durham family tree and uncover the rich history that accompanies this surname.
Famous People with Durham (and Their Family Tree)
Rhea Durham
Rhea Durham, born on July 1, 1978, is a renowned American model celebrated for her appearances on the covers of prestigious fashion magazines such as French Vogue, Marie Claire, and both British and American ELLE. She also gained significant recognition for walking in the 2000 and 2001 Victoria's Secret Fashion Shows. Beyond modeling, Rhea showcased her versatility by guest-starring as herself in a 2001 episode of "Spin City" titled "The Wedding Scammer."
Rhea Durham's personal life became a focal point when she started a relationship with actor Mark Wahlberg in 2001. The couple married on August 1, 2009, in a private Catholic ceremony in Beverly Hills, California, and they have four children together. In the same year, Rhea converted to Catholicism from Baptist Protestantism.
Judith Durham
Judith Mavis Durham, born on July 3, 1943, in Essendon, Victoria, was a renowned Australian singer and musician, most famous as the lead vocalist of the folk music group, the Seekers. The group achieved international success in the 1960s with hits like "I'll Never Find Another You" and "Georgy Girl," selling over 50 million records worldwide. Durham left the Seekers in 1968 to pursue a solo career, releasing albums such as For Christmas with Love and Gift of Song. Her contributions to music and charity work earned her the title of Victorian of the Year in 2015.
Judith Durham was born to William Alexander Cock, a World War II navigator, and Hazel (née Durham). Her early life included residences in Essendon, Victoria, and Taroona, Tasmania, before returning to Melbourne.
Geoffrey Durham
Geoffrey Durham, born on 22 July 1949 in East Molesey, Surrey, is a renowned British comedy magician and actor, widely recognized for his alter ego, "The Great Soprendo." His illustrious career in magic includes appearances on children's TV shows like Crackerjack and a memorable act on Channel 4's Countdown. Durham's innovative magic tricks, such as the Newspaper Tear, have earned him a spot on the 50 Greatest Magic Tricks. His contributions to the magic world were acknowledged with the Maskelyne Award in 2002, and he is a respected member of the Inner Magic Circle. Beyond magic, he has served as a magic consultant for Doctor Who and appeared in the film Wish You Were Here.
Ray Durham
Ray Durham, born November 30, 1971, is a former Major League Baseball second baseman known for his impressive 14-year career. With a .277 lifetime batting average, 1,249 runs, and 2,054 hits, Durham was a key player for the Chicago White Sox, Oakland Athletics, and San Francisco Giants. He was recognized for his exceptional base-stealing ability and power hitting, achieving over 20 stolen bases and 10 home runs per season. Durham's standout years included a remarkable 2006 season with the Giants, where he hit 26 home runs and had 93 RBIs, earning him a two-year, $14.5 million contract extension.
Leon Durham
Leon "Bull" Durham, born on July 31, 1957, is a former Major League Baseball player known for his role as a first baseman and outfielder. Over his ten-season career, Durham played for the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, and Cincinnati Reds, achieving a lifetime batting average of .277 with 147 home runs. A notable highlight was his 1982 season with the Cubs, where he boasted a .312 batting average and won the Silver Slugger Award. Durham's career also includes a memorable, yet unfortunate, error during the 1984 National League Championship Series, known as the "Gatorade Glove Play." Post-retirement, he contributed to the sport as a minor league hitting coach and assistant hitting coach for the Detroit Tigers.
Durham Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Durham" is of English origin, likely derived from the city of Durham in England. It is a notable surname with a variety of distinguished individuals across different fields, including politics, sports, literature, and science, predominantly in the United States and the United Kingdom.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Durham
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 Durham family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Durham surname to learn more.
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