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)

Little Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Little Surname

Little is an English surname with roots dating back to the Middle English period, derived from the word "littel" and the Old English "lītel," both meaning "little." The name was often used as a nickname for someone of small stature or as a way to distinguish between two individuals with the same given name. Over time, the surname Little absorbed several non-English surnames, serving as a translation for the Irish "Ó Beagáin," as well as the French "Petit" and German "Klein," especially during World War II.

The surname Little first appeared in records in the 10th century, marking its early presence in English history. Throughout the centuries, it established itself in regions like Yorkshire and Lancashire. As society evolved, so did the Little family, with branches forming and spreading across England. By the 17th century, the name had crossed the Atlantic, accompanying English settlers to North America where it gained prominence and diversified further.

YourRoots data substantiates the early 15th-century origins of the Little surname in England, showcasing its initial impact in English society. This data highlights the surname's evolution during the late medieval period, where it became deeply rooted in English regions before spreading globally. The YourRoots dataset complements existing historical records, presenting a detailed picture of the Little family tree's growth through centuries.

Today, Little genealogy records reveal a widespread presence, particularly in the United States, where the surname has become well-established. The YourRoots database offers a valuable resource for those interested in tracing their Little ancestry, providing insights into the family's rich heritage and global connections. This comprehensive data makes it possible for researchers to delve into the intricate tapestry of the Little family tree.

← START A NEW SEARCH

Find the Little Family Tree

Search more Little trees & genealogy records

Records

Search more trees & records for
Little for free

SIGNUP

Tracing Your Little Family Lineage

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

The Little surname first appeared in records from England during the early 15th century, marking the beginning of a rich genealogical history. This initial appearance connects to the family's roots and underscores the significance of the Little name as it began to take shape in the context of English society. As the surname emerged, it likely represented a small stature or a diminutive form, setting the stage for the family's evolution in subsequent centuries.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Little

Throughout the following centuries, the Little family began to establish itself across England, particularly in regions such as Yorkshire and Lancashire. During the late medieval period, family lines diversified, creating branches that would eventually lead to various descendants. As these families grew, they began to document their lineage, contributing to the family tree's complexity and depth.

The early modern period saw the Little name further proliferate, with records indicating a steady rise in the surname’s presence. The family tree expanded as members of the Little clan intermarried and settled in new areas, creating a network of connections that would become integral to their history. This period marked the beginning of the family's transition to new territories, setting the foundation for future migrations.

Tracing the Little Family Tree Through the Centuries

As the Little surname journeyed beyond England, it began to flourish in various regions during the 17th century, particularly in North America. The migration of English settlers to the New World catalyzed a significant increase in the surname's prevalence, with many Little families establishing themselves in what would become the United States. By the 18th century, the name had become well-established, with numerous branches forming throughout the emerging nation.

The global spread of the Little surname continued into the 19th century, as families migrated not only within the United States but also to other parts of the world, including Canada and Australia. This movement was driven by opportunities for land and prosperity, allowing the Little lineage to expand and adapt to new environments. By the 20th century, the name had transcended borders, with descendants of the Little family found in various countries, reflecting a rich tapestry of heritage.

Where to Find Little Genealogy Records Today

In the modern centuries, the Little surname remains prevalent, particularly in the United States, where it holds a significant presence. While the number of individuals bearing the surname has seen fluctuations over the years, the connections to family history have remained strong. Readers are encouraged to explore the YourRoots database to uncover the rich genealogy records associated with the Little surname and connect their own family trees to this expansive heritage.

Famous People with Little (and Their Family Tree)

Samuel Little

Samuel Little, born Samuel McDowell, was an infamous American serial killer with a notorious criminal career spanning decades. Convicted of eight murders, Little confessed to a staggering 93 murders between 1970 and 2005, setting a grim record as the serial killer with the most confirmed victims in American history. His horrendous acts were eventually linked to at least 60 murders by the FBI, making him a significant figure in criminal history. Little's confessions and the DNA evidence against him led to his life imprisonment without parole, despite his claims of innocence until his death in 2020.

Samuel Little was born on June 7, 1940, in Reynolds, Georgia, as Samuel McDowell. His mother, Bessie Mae Little, was a teenage prostitute who abandoned him, and it is believed she gave birth to him while incarcerated. The 1940 census identified his father as 19-year-old Paul McDowell. After his birth, Little's family relocated to Lorain, Ohio, where he was primarily raised by his grandmother, indicating a tumultuous family background that may have influenced his troubled life.

Ralf Little

Ralf Alastair John Little, born on 8 February 1980, is a prominent English actor celebrated for his roles in television comedy. He gained fame as Antony Royle in "The Royle Family" and Jonny Keogh in "Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps." His career highlights include starring as DI Neville Parker in "Death in Paradise" and narrating "Our Yorkshire Farm." Little's diverse talents extend to the stage, where he was nominated for an Olivier Award for his performance in "Presence." He has also contributed to film, literature, and online media, showcasing his versatility across various entertainment platforms.

Ralf Little was born in Oldham and lived in Whitefield near Bury. He has a younger brother, Ross Little, who is also an actor. Their parents are accountants, providing a stable family background. Ralf attended Bolton School and later pursued studies at the University of Manchester medical school before focusing on his acting career.

Cleavon Little

Cleavon Jake Little was an acclaimed American actor known for his diverse roles across stage, film, and television. He gained prominence with his Tony Award-winning performance in Broadway's "Purlie" and became a household name portraying Sheriff Bart in Mel Brooks's iconic comedy film "Blazing Saddles." Little's television success included the sitcom "Temperatures Rising" and a Primetime Emmy Award-winning guest appearance on "Dear John." His dynamic career also saw roles in productions like "All Over Town" and "The Poison Tree," showcasing his versatile acting prowess.

Cleavon Little was the brother of singer DeEtta Little West and had siblings Rosemarie, Everett, and Roy. He was raised in San Diego, California, where he attended Kearny High School and later graduated from San Diego State College.

Rich Little

Rich Little, renowned as the "Man of a Thousand Voices," is a Canadian-American comedian, impressionist, and voice actor celebrated for his exceptional mimicry skills. He has recorded nine comedy albums and made numerous television appearances, including three HBO specials. Little's career began in Canada with performances in local theaters and radio stations, leading to a breakthrough in the U.S. in the 1960s. His notable works include the satirical album "My Fellow Canadians" and "Scrooge and the Stars." Little's American career was propelled by collaborations with Canadian writers Peppiatt and Aylesworth, who introduced his talent to the Hollywood scene.

Rich Little was born in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, as the middle of three sons to Lawrence Peniston Little, a surgeon and World War II lieutenant commander, and Elizabeth Maud (née Wilson), a housewife. Little is a third-generation Canadian with English ancestry on his father's side and Irish roots on his mother's. His maternal ancestor, John Willson, was the Speaker of the 5th Parliament of Upper Canada, while his paternal great-grandfather, William Carruthers Little, was a Member of Parliament in Canada.

Stuart Little

Stuart Little is the titular character of E. B. White's 1945 children's novel, a classic in children's literature known for its enchanting blend of realism and fantasy. Stuart, a mouse-like boy born into a human family in New York City, showcases extraordinary adaptability despite his diminutive size. The novel highlights his adventurous spirit and resourcefulness, as he embarks on a journey to find his friend Margalo, encountering various adventures along the way. Illustrated by Garth Williams, the book remains an enduring favorite, celebrated for its imaginative storytelling and unique character development.

Little Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Little" originates from the English language, derived from the Middle English "littel" and Old English "l»≥tel," meaning "little." It was often used as a nickname for a small man or to distinguish the younger of two individuals with the same name. The surname has also been adopted as a translation of similar surnames in other languages, such as the Irish "Ó Beagáin" and the French "Petit."

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Little

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