Haggard Family Genealogy & History

Merle Ronald Haggard was a legendary American country music singer, songwriter, guitarist, and fiddler known for his authentic portrayal of the working class in his songs. Overcoming a troubled past, he achieved remarkable success with 38 number-one hits on the US country charts between the 1960s and 1980s, receiving prestigious honors such as a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His music captured the essence of American life, resonating with fans across generations.

Born in Oildale, California, Merle Haggard was the son of Flossie Mae (née Harp) and James Francis Haggard, who relocated from Checotah, Oklahoma, after losing their farm. His father worked for the Santa Fe Railroad, and the family settled in a remodeled boxcar home. James Haggard's death in 1946 deeply impacted Merle's life.

Ted Arthur Haggard, born on June 27, 1956, is a prominent American Methodist pastor best known for founding New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He also established the Association of Life-Giving Churches and served as president of the National Association of Evangelicals from 2003 to 2006. Despite his achievements, Haggard faced a significant scandal in 2006 involving allegations of drug use and sexual misconduct, which led to his resignation from leadership roles. Later, he and his wife founded Saint James Church in 2010.

Haggard was born in Indiana to J. M. Haggard, a veterinarian and founder of an international charismatic ministry. His father's ministry was notably featured in a PBS documentary series.

Daisy Haggard, born in 1978, is a renowned English actress and writer best known for her roles in popular BBC sitcoms like "Uncle" and "Episodes." She gained further acclaim with the comedy-drama "Back to Life," which she co-wrote and starred in, and received a British Academy Television Award nomination for her performance in "Breeders." Haggard's career spans various genres, from sketch shows like "Man Stroke Woman" to appearances in "Doctor Who" and "Black Mirror." Her versatile talent also extends to stage performances at the National Theatre and in films such as "I Give It a Year" and "Honeymooner."

Daisy Haggard hails from a creative family, the daughter of film director Piers Haggard and Australian painter Anna Sklovsky. Her grandfather was actor Stephen Haggard, and she is a descendant of famed author Sir Henry Rider Haggard. This rich family heritage in the arts undoubtedly influenced her successful career in acting and writing. Haggard was raised in Dulwich, South London, and educated at James Allen's Girls' School and the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art.

H. Rider Haggard was a prominent English writer renowned for his adventure fiction set in exotic locations like Africa, significantly contributing to the lost world literary genre. His works include the influential Allan Quatermain series, beginning with King Solomon's Mines. Besides being a celebrated author, Haggard was involved in land reform across the British Empire. His novels, often inspired by real-life adventurers, continue to be popular for their imaginative narratives and exploration of ancient civilizations.

Born in Bradenham, Norfolk, Haggard was the eighth of ten children to William Meybohm Rider Haggard, a barrister, and Ella Doveton, an author and poet. His father hailed from Saint Petersburg, Russia, and was part of the notable Haggard family, related to ecclesiastical lawyer John Haggard and naval officer Admiral Sir Vernon Haggard.