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Kidder Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Kidder Surname

The surname Kidder first emerged in England during the early 15th century, marking its place in the annals of family history. As a surname with deep roots, Kidder has come to represent a lineage that intertwines with the historical and social fabric of its time. This name, like many surnames of the era, likely originated from a trade, geographical location, or personal characteristic, contributing to the cultural mosaic of English society.

As the centuries progressed, the Kidder name spread throughout England, particularly establishing itself in regions such as East Anglia and the South Midlands. This growth was indicative of the surname's increasing prominence and the establishment of various family branches. By the 17th century, the Kidder family tree began to extend beyond England, with members migrating to the New World, especially the United States, in search of new opportunities, thereby expanding the cultural and geographical reach of the name.

YourRoots data corroborates this historical journey by highlighting the Kidder family's establishment and growth in England during the early 15th century. As the Kidder genealogy developed, its presence became more pronounced in the New World during the 17th century. This migration not only diversified the family tree but also enriched the historical narrative, showcasing a lineage that adapted and thrived across different environments.

In contemporary times, the Kidder surname maintains its global presence, with a significant concentration in the United States and parts of the United Kingdom. Kidder genealogy records, as reflected in YourRoots, offer a valuable resource for descendants seeking to explore their heritage and connect with their familial past, providing a comprehensive view of the Kidder family tree through the ages.

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Tracing Your Kidder Family Lineage

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

The Kidder surname first emerged in England during the early 15th century, marking the beginning of a rich genealogical heritage. This initial appearance in historical records connects to the foundational branches of the Kidder family tree, representing the origins of what would become a widespread lineage. As families began to establish themselves, the Kidder name would evolve and expand, reflecting the social and geographical changes of the times.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Kidder

Throughout the subsequent centuries, the Kidder family began to spread across England, particularly in key regions such as East Anglia and the South Midlands. During the late 15th century, the name saw a notable increase in frequency, indicating the establishment of various family branches as they began to secure their places within local communities. This era marked a significant period of growth, with families forming connections through marriage and migration, further enriching the Kidder family tree.

As the Kidder surname continued to develop, families began to establish themselves in various regions, laying the groundwork for future generations. In the 17th century, the name began to appear prominently in the New World, particularly in the United States, as families sought new opportunities and a fresh start. This migration not only expanded the Kidder lineage but also diversified it, as families adapted to new environments and formed new connections across the Atlantic.

Tracing the Kidder Family Tree Through the Centuries

The expansion of the Kidder surname continued into the 18th and 19th centuries, with a significant concentration in the United States. As families settled in various states, particularly in New England, they established roots that would flourish over time, contributing to a robust family history. By the 19th century, the Kidder surname had become well established, reflecting the perseverance and adaptability of these families as they navigated the challenges of their new homeland.

This global spread of the Kidder name is evident as it reached different continents and regions, showcasing the family's migration patterns and the resulting branches of their family trees. In the early 20th century, the Kidder surname maintained its presence in the United States while also appearing in other parts of the world, further emphasizing the family's expansive reach. Each generation contributed to the intricate tapestry of the Kidder lineage, connecting past and present through shared heritage and lineage.

Where to Find Kidder Genealogy Records Today

In modern centuries, the Kidder surname continues to showcase its global presence, particularly in the United States and parts of the United Kingdom. The legacy of the Kidder family can be traced through historical records and databases, allowing descendants to explore their roots and connect with their

Famous People with Kidder (and Their Family Tree)

Margot Kidder

Margaret Ruth Kidder, known as Margot Kidder, was a celebrated Canadian-American actress and activist, best remembered for her iconic role as Lois Lane in the Superman films (1978–1987). With a career spanning five decades, she earned accolades like two Canadian Film Awards and an Emmy. Kidder gained international fame through films such as The Amityville Horror (1979) and the comedy Heartaches (1981). Despite personal challenges, including a car accident and struggles with bipolar disorder, she maintained a steady presence in independent films and television, showcasing her enduring talent.

Born in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Kidder was the daughter of Jocelyn Mary "Jill" Wilson, a history teacher from British Columbia, and Kendall Kidder, an American explosives expert from New Mexico. She was of Welsh and English descent and one of five siblings. Her family lived in remote locations due to her father's work, influencing her upbringing. Her sister, Annie, is an actress and married actor Eric Peterson, while her brother, John, married politician Elizabeth May. Kidder's niece, Janet Kidder, is also an actress, indicating a family rich in artistic talent.

Janet Kidder

Janet Kidder is a renowned Canadian actress born in 1972, best known for her compelling role as Osyraa in "Star Trek: Discovery." Her impressive career includes performances in "Man in the High Castle" as Lila Jacobs and an appearance in "La Femme Nikita" alongside her aunt, Margot Kidder. Janet has been recognized with nominations for a Gemini Award for her role in "Tom Stone" and two Leo Awards, showcasing her versatile acting talents in productions like "Ring of Fire" and "Two Sentence Horror Stories."

Janet Kidder was born in Cranbrook, B.C., and is the daughter of John Kidder. Her family moved to England when she was two, where she lived until completing her education before returning to Canada. Janet is the niece of the late actress Margot Kidder, highlighting a strong familial connection to the entertainment industry.

Tracy Kidder

Tracy Kidder, born November 12, 1945, is a celebrated American nonfiction writer known for his award-winning works. Kidder's career highlights include winning the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award for "The Soul of a New Machine," a detailed account of computer innovation at Data General Corporation. His biography of Dr. Paul Farmer, "Mountains Beyond Mountains," and other works like "Among Schoolchildren" have received critical acclaim. Kidder is recognized for his literary journalism style, influenced by notable writers such as John McPhee and George Orwell, and remains a prominent figure in nonfiction writing.

Alfred V. Kidder

Alfred Vincent Kidder, born on October 29, 1885, in Marquette, Michigan, was a pioneering American archaeologist renowned for transforming archaeological methodologies with a systematic approach. His work in the southwestern United States, including significant excavations at Pecos, New Mexico, laid foundational techniques in North American archaeology. Kidder's development of the Pecos Classification System and his contributions to Maya stratigraphy in Guatemala as part of the Carnegie Institution stand as major achievements. His efforts were recognized through fellowships with prestigious institutions like the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the National Academy of Sciences.

Kidder was the son of a mining engineer, reflecting a family background rooted in scientific and technical professions.

Rushworth Kidder

Rushworth Moulton Kidder was a prominent American author, ethicist, and professor, best known for founding the Institute for Global Ethics in 1990. He gained recognition through his influential works like "Moral Courage" and "How Good People Make Tough Choices: Resolving the Dilemmas of Ethical Living." Born in Amherst, Massachusetts, Kidder's career included roles as a columnist and editor for The Christian Science Monitor. He achieved academic excellence with a doctorate from Columbia University in English and comparative literature. His writings, including an award-winning series on quantum physics, were featured in the American Society of Newspaper Editors' Best Newspaper Writing collection. Kidder passed away in 2012 in Naples, Florida, at the age of 67.

Kidder Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Kidder" is associated with various notable individuals across different fields, such as archaeology, theology, and the arts. Originating from historical figures like Edward Kidder, an 18th-century pastry cook, to contemporary personalities like Canadian actress Janet Kidder, the name has been linked to significant contributions in areas ranging from ethics to entertainment.

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Kidder

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