Create a free account to navigate family trees, view ancestors, and discover connections.

First name (Optional)

Middle name (Optional)

Last name* (Required)

Advanced Search Options

Exact match

(Show only records that exactly match the information entered.)

Birth year (Optional)

Death year (Optional)

Birth location (Optional)

Death location (Optional)

Goddard Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Goddard Surname

The Goddard surname, of Norman origin, is rooted in England and France, deriving from the personal name Golhard. This name, with its variants like Godard, Godart, Goudard, and Godar, reflects a rich tapestry of cultural and linguistic evolution. Historically, the Goddard family name has been associated with artistic, political, and scientific achievements, marking its bearers as influential figures across various fields.

Throughout the centuries, the Goddard family tree expanded beyond its Norman roots, establishing a significant presence in England by the 12th century. The surname's spread into regions like Germany and Holland suggests a dynamic movement and integration into diverse cultures. By the 15th and 16th centuries, Goddard had become a common name in England, setting the stage for its later migration to the United States and other parts of the world in the 17th century.

YourRoots dataset confirms that the Goddard genealogy has deep roots in England, dating back to the early 12th century. This aligns with historical records of the family’s expansion within England during the medieval centuries. By the 18th and 19th centuries, Goddard families had established themselves in North America, illustrating their adaptability and resilience. The YourRoots data enriches our understanding of the Goddard family tree by highlighting these key migratory patterns and cultural integrations.

For genealogy enthusiasts and researchers, the YourRoots database offers valuable insights into the Goddard records, providing a comprehensive view of the family’s historical trajectory. These records not only affirm the global presence of the Goddard family but also serve as a crucial resource for those looking to trace their own connections to this storied surname.

← START A NEW SEARCH

Find the Goddard Family Tree

Search more Goddard trees & genealogy records

Records

Search more trees & records for
Goddard for free

SIGNUP

Tracing Your Goddard Family Lineage

Origin of the Goddard Family: Where does the Goddard surname come from?

The Goddard surname first emerged in the records of England during the early 12th century, marking the beginning of what would become a substantial family lineage. This initial appearance signifies the roots of the Goddard family tree, connecting descendants to their ancestral homeland. As genealogical origins go, this early record lays the foundation for understanding the family's evolution over the centuries.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Goddard

Throughout the ensuing centuries, the Goddard family began to spread primarily across England, establishing a presence in various regions within the nation. During the 13th century, the surname saw significant growth, with numerous family lines branching out and contributing to the expanding family tree. As the centuries progressed, these early Goddard families formed the backbone of a network that would eventually reach beyond England's borders.

By the 15th and 16th centuries, the Goddard name had become increasingly common in England, indicating a flourishing family presence. The expansion of family branches during this time allowed for the development of distinct lineages, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Goddard genealogy. This period set the stage for the family's later migrations and further dispersal.

Tracing the Goddard Family Tree Through the Centuries

As the Goddard surname continued to evolve, its reach extended beyond England into other parts of the world, particularly during the 17th century. The migration to the United States marked a significant chapter, as many Goddard families sought new opportunities and established roots in North America. This transcontinental spread of the surname reflects the adaptability and resilience of the Goddard lineage over time.

In the 18th century, the Goddard name continued to be associated with both English and American families, demonstrating a sustained presence in these regions. The 19th century saw further expansion, with Goddard families establishing themselves in various territories, contributing to a diverse genealogy. This global diffusion of the surname illustrates the interconnectedness of Goddard descendants across continents and cultures.

Where to Find Goddard Genealogy Records Today

In the modern centuries, the Goddard surname is found in numerous countries, with a notable presence in both the United States and England. As the 20th century progressed into the 21st century, the Goddard name continued to thrive, with families maintaining their connections to their lineage while exploring their genealogical heritage. For those interested in uncovering their own connections to the Goddard family tree, the YourRoots database offers a wealth of records to assist in tracing their family history.

Famous People with Goddard (and Their Family Tree)

Trisha Goddard

Trisha Goddard, born Patricia Gloria Goddard on 23 December 1957, is a renowned British television presenter known for hosting the popular talk show "Trisha" from 1998 to 2010. Her career highlights include hosting the children's show "Play School" and the current affairs program "The 7:30 Report" in Australia. Goddard has also contributed as a conflict resolution expert on the American talk show "Maury" and hosted her show in the U.S. from 2012 to 2014. Her recent endeavors include presenting on talkRADIO and TalkTV, and fronting a revival of "You Are What You Eat" on Channel 5. She has shown resilience by battling breast cancer twice, becoming a patron of several charities.

Trisha Goddard was born in Hackney, London, to Agnes Fortune, an auxiliary nurse from Dominica, and an unknown father. Raised by a white man whom she later discovered was not her biological father, Goddard embarked on a personal journey in her late 50s to uncover details about her biological father. Her upbringing included education in Tanzania and England, where she attended Sir William Perkins's School in Surrey.

Neville Goddard

Neville Goddard was a renowned Barbadian writer, speaker, and mystic, celebrated for his thought-provoking lectures on imagination and biblical esotericism. His career highlights include a successful stint in television with 26 half-hour shows broadcast in Los Angeles during the 1950s. Goddard's teachings significantly influenced figures like Reverend Ike and authors Rhonda Byrne and Wayne Dyer, who have acknowledged the impact of his metaphysical ideas. He authored numerous works, including "At Your Command" and "The Power of Awareness," which continue to inspire and shape New Thought and self-help philosophies.

Born in Fontabelle, Saint Michael, Barbados, Neville Goddard was the fourth of ten children to Joseph Nathaniel Goddard, a merchant, and Wilhelmina Goddard (née Hinkson). His family background includes a notable sibling, John Goddard, who was recognized as a cricketer and businessman.

Paulette Goddard

Paulette Goddard, born Marion Levy, was a celebrated American actress and socialite noted for her roles during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Her illustrious career spanned six decades, featuring standout performances in films like Modern Times (1936) and The Great Dictator (1940) alongside Charlie Chaplin. As one of Paramount Pictures’ leading stars, she was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for So Proudly We Hail! (1943). Goddard's dynamic presence and independent spirit made her a prominent figure in the film industry.

Born in New York City, Paulette Goddard was the daughter of Joseph Russell Le Vee and Alta Mae Goddard. Her parents divorced in 1926, after which she was raised primarily by her mother, moving frequently during her childhood. Her maternal uncle, Charles Goddard, played a significant role in her career, introducing her to Broadway. Goddard's ancestry included a prosperous cigar manufacturer from Salt Lake City.

Drew Goddard

Drew Goddard, born Andrew Brion Hogan Goddard on February 26, 1975, is a renowned American screenwriter, director, and producer, best known for his work in the horror and science fiction genres. He gained recognition writing for TV series like "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Lost," and went on to write notable films such as "Cloverfield," "World War Z," and "The Martian," the latter earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay. Goddard also created the Netflix series "Daredevil" and directed "The Cabin in the Woods." In 2024, he was announced to write and direct a new film in "The Matrix" franchise, further solidifying his place in the entertainment industry.

Goddard was born in Houston, Texas, and raised in Los Alamos, New Mexico. He attended Los Alamos High School and the University of Colorado Boulder. Information about his parents or further family origins is not specified in the provided source text.

Gary Goddard

Gary Goddard, born on July 18, 1954, is an accomplished American producer and director, renowned for co-founding the Landmark Entertainment Group and later establishing Gary Goddard Entertainment, which became the Goddard Group. His career highlights include directing the 1987 film "Masters of the Universe" and producing acclaimed Broadway shows like the 2009 revival of "Hair" and "reasons to be pretty." Goddard has also contributed significantly to television, creating popular shows such as "Captain Power" and "Mega Babies." As an entertainment designer, he has been instrumental in creating theme parks and attractions like "Jurassic Park: The Ride" and "The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man."

Goddard Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Goddard" is of Norman origin, found primarily in England and France, and is derived from the personal name Golhard. Variants of the name appear in several countries, including Godard and Godart in England, Goudard and Godar in France, and Gotthard in Germany.

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Goddard

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 Goddard family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Goddard surname to learn more.