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)

Knightley Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Knightley Surname

The Knightley surname has its roots in England, first appearing in early medieval records. As an emblem of heritage, the name Knightley became a significant marker within the community, tracing its origins back to a time when families were establishing their identities. This surname is tied to lineage and history, providing a window into the past for those exploring their family history.

Throughout the centuries, the Knightley surname spread across England, particularly in the central and eastern regions. The 12th and 13th centuries saw significant growth, with branches of the Knightley family establishing themselves in various communities. By the 14th century, the surname had gained prominence, with distinct family lines emerging. This evolution reflects the resilience and adaptability of the Knightley genealogy through time, as different branches formed unique identities within the larger family network.

YourRoots data enriches our understanding of the Knightley genealogy, confirming its presence in England since the medieval period. The dataset illustrates how the surname expanded during the 15th century and began to establish connections beyond England by the 16th century. This expansion showcases the dynamic nature of the Knightley family tree and highlights the potential for broader regional influences as branches ventured into new territories.

Today, Knightley genealogy records have a global reach, with YourRoots highlighting migration patterns and connections across various regions. This continuity between historical records and YourRoots data offers invaluable insights for anyone tracing the Knightley family tree, helping to uncover the rich tapestry of histories intertwined with this storied lineage.

← START A NEW SEARCH

Find the Knightley Family Tree

Search more Knightley trees & genealogy records

Records

Search more trees & records for
Knightley for free

SIGNUP

Tracing Your Knightley Family Lineage

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

The Knightley surname has its earliest known appearance in records from England during the early medieval period. This initial record marks the beginning of the Knightley family tree, offering a glimpse into the genealogical origins rooted in this historic land. As families began to establish their identities, the Knightley name emerged as a significant marker of lineage and heritage within the community.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Knightley

Throughout the subsequent centuries, the Knightley family began to spread across England, particularly flourishing in the central and eastern regions of the country. The 12th and 13th centuries witnessed notable growth, as branches of the Knightley family expanded and diversified, establishing their presence in various parishes and communities. As these families grew, they laid the groundwork for extensive family trees that would connect generations to come.

By the 14th century, the Knightley surname had achieved a more established status, with numerous family lines emerging. This period marked a pivotal moment in the development of the Knightley genealogy, as different branches began to form distinct identities and connections within the broader family network. The evolution of these family trees reflects the adaptability and resilience of the Knightley lineage through the ages.

Tracing the Knightley Family Tree Through the Centuries

The expansion of the Knightley surname continued into the later centuries, with a notable increase in prevalence in England during the 15th century. By the 16th century, the Knightley family had begun to see connections beyond England, hinting at the potential for broader regional influences. This trajectory illustrates the dynamic nature of the Knightley genealogy, showcasing how different branches ventured into new territories and established roots in various communities.

As time progressed into the 17th and 18th centuries, the Knightley family name continued to resonate across borders, potentially influencing and blending with other surnames. In the 19th century, the family tree diversified even further, reflecting the social and economic changes of the time. The Knightley lineage thus evolved into a complex network that spanned multiple regions, embodying the rich tapestry of family histories intertwined with the name.

Where to Find Knightley Genealogy Records Today

In the modern centuries, the Knightley surname has maintained its presence, particularly evident in England but also noted in migration patterns across other regions. The 20th and 21st centuries have seen a continued interest in genealogy, with descendants of the Knightley family seeking to explore their roots. Readers are encouraged to delve into the YourRoots database, where they can uncover valuable Knightley genealogy records and connect their own family trees to this storied lineage.

Famous People with Knightley (and Their Family Tree)

Keira Knightley

Keira Christina Knightley, born on March 26, 1985, is an acclaimed English actress known for her roles in independent films and blockbusters, including period dramas. She gained global recognition for playing Elizabeth Swann in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series and was nominated for two Academy Awards for her performances in "Pride & Prejudice" and "The Imitation Game." Knightley has received multiple accolades, including Golden Globe and British Academy Film Award nominations. Her stage work includes West End productions like "The Misanthrope." Known for her advocacy on social issues, she was appointed an OBE in 2018 for her services to drama and charity.

Keira Knightley was born in the London suburb of Teddington to stage actors Will Knightley and Sharman Macdonald. Her father is English, while her mother is of Scottish and Welsh descent. Knightley has an older brother, Caleb. Despite early financial difficulties, her parents fostered her interest in acting, with her mother transitioning to a career as a playwright. This supportive environment helped Knightley overcome dyslexia and pursue her passion for acting from a young age.

Will Knightley

Will Knightley, born on April 23, 1946, is a distinguished English actor known for his extensive work in television and stage. A founding member of London's Half Moon Theatre, Knightley has showcased his talent in various productions such as "The School for Scandal" and "Wild Honey." His television appearances include roles in popular series like "The Bill," "Midsomer Murders," and "The Hound of the Baskervilles." Notably, he played Jeremy Pearson in "Rosemary & Thyme" and appeared in the BBC drama "A Short Stay in Switzerland." Knightley has also contributed to the arts through voice-over work and stage performances, making a significant impact in both mediums.

Will Knightley is the father of two accomplished children: composer Caleb Knightley, born in 1979, and renowned actress Keira Knightley, born in 1985. The family has made significant contributions to the arts, with both children achieving success in their respective fields.

George Knightley

George Knightley, a key character in Jane Austen's 1815 novel "Emma," is depicted as a landowner and gentleman farmer with high moral character. As the owner of Donwell Abbey, he is known for his maturity, good judgment, and down-to-earth nature, despite being the area's largest estate owner. Knightley is one of the few who candidly critiques Emma Woodhouse, displaying his affection and esteem for her. This character has been portrayed by actors such as John Carson, Jeremy Northam, and Johnny Flynn in various adaptations, enhancing his recognition and searchability.

Steve Knightley

Steve Knightley, born in 1954 in Southampton, is a renowned English singer-songwriter and acoustic musician, best known as one half of the folk duo Show of Hands alongside Phil Beer. Named "Songwriter of the Nineties" by BBC Radio 6 Music in 2012, Knightley has made significant contributions to the folk and roots music scene. His career highlights include forming the trio 'Gawain', collaborating with various artists like Paul Downes and Warwick Downes, and receiving an honorary doctorate of music from the University of Plymouth in 2015. His discography includes albums like "Track of Words" and "Cruel River," showcasing his enduring influence in the music industry.

Steve Knightley hails from a diverse background with English, Irish, and Scottish descent. His family history includes both grandfathers who served as soldiers. At the age of five, Knightley's family moved from Southampton to Exeter and later to Exmouth when he was thirteen. He currently resides in East Devon with his wife Clare, a local medical doctor, and their three children, maintaining deep roots in the region despite his extensive travels and career commitments.

Phillip Knightley

Phillip George Knightley (1929–2016) was a distinguished Australian journalist, critic, and author renowned for his investigative work and contributions to journalism. He gained prominence as a member of The Sunday Times' 'Insight' team, producing groundbreaking reports like the thalidomide scandal and the Vestey family tax investigations. Knightley was a media commentator on intelligence services and propaganda, lecturing globally at esteemed institutions. His accolades include multiple British Press Awards and honorary doctorates from City University, London, and the University of Sydney. Notably, he was a Member of the Order of Australia, reflecting his significant impact on journalism and literature.

Knightley was married with two daughters, Aliya and Marisa, a son, Kim, and two granddaughters. He had residences in London, Sydney, and Goa, India.

Knightley Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Knightley" is of English origin, associated with various notable individuals such as politicians, activists, and artists, including the actress Keira Knightley. It also refers to a hamlet in Staffordshire, England, and is the name of a fictional character, George Knightley, in Jane Austen's novel "Emma."

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Knightley

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