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Matson Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Matson Surname

The Matson surname is an English-language name that first emerged in the early 16th century. With its roots tracing back to England, the name initially signified familial or geographical origins. Over time, the Matson surname has become a part of a rich tapestry of genealogy, representing a lineage that has spanned continents and centuries.

Throughout the centuries, the Matson surname evolved as families spread from England to various regions, including the United States. In the 17th century, some branches of the Matson family crossed the Atlantic in search of new opportunities, establishing new roots in America. This migration marked a significant expansion, with notable individuals such as Aaron Matson and Courtland C. Matson contributing to the cultural and political landscapes of their time.

YourRoots data offers valuable insights into the Matson genealogy, confirming the surname's presence in England during the 16th century. This aligns with historical records and highlights the surname's growth and geographical spread in subsequent centuries. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Matson family records show a marked increase, particularly in North America, reflecting the surname's integration and influence in diverse communities.

For those interested in tracing their Matson family tree, the YourRoots database provides a comprehensive resource that enriches the understanding of this surname's historical journey. By exploring Matson records, genealogical researchers can uncover connections that span generations and continents, offering a deeper appreciation of their ancestry.

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Tracing Your Matson Family Lineage

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

The Matson surname first appeared in records during the early 16th century in England. This early documentation serves as a crucial starting point for understanding the genealogical origins of the Matson family, indicating a lineage that began in the United Kingdom. The roots of the family tree can be traced back to this period, setting the stage for the subsequent evolution and dispersion of the Matson name across various regions.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Matson

In the centuries following its emergence, the Matson family began to establish itself in various parts of England, with records indicating a notable presence in specific regions during the 16th and 17th centuries. As families grew and branched out, the Matson name began to appear more frequently, reflecting the expansion of family lines and connections. This proliferation laid the groundwork for the rich tapestry of Matson genealogy that would unfold over the centuries.

During the 17th century, the Matson surname began to make its way across the Atlantic, as some family branches sought new opportunities in emerging territories such as the United States. This migration was a significant turning point, as families established new roots and formed connections that would lead to a substantial presence in the New World. The evolution of the Matson family tree during this time illustrates the resilience and adaptability of the family as they navigated the challenges of settling in unfamiliar lands.

Tracing the Matson Family Tree Through the Centuries

As the Matson surname continued to expand in the 18th century, it became increasingly prevalent in North America, particularly in the United States. This growth was marked by a significant rise in the number of recorded Matson families, reflecting their successful integration into American society and culture. By the 19th century, the surname had firmly established itself across various states, showcasing a diverse and dynamic lineage that spanned multiple generations.

In the 20th century, the Matson name maintained its presence in the United States while also seeing some records emerging from other countries, indicating a continued global spread of the family. Families with the Matson surname have contributed to various communities, further enriching the genealogical narrative. Exploring these connections through the YourRoots database can provide valuable insights for individuals seeking to trace their own Matson lineage and discover their place within this extensive family history.

Famous People with Matson (and Their Family Tree)

April Matson

April Matson is an accomplished American actress and singer, best known for her role as Lori Trager on the ABC Family series Kyle XY and for her performance alongside Andy Richter on Fox's Quintuplets. She has showcased her talent in various theatrical productions, independent films, and a 2005 film short called Forsaken. Matson's musical contributions include two songs featured in Kyle XY, and she released her debut album, Pieces of My Heart. She played April Johnson in the web series The Gratitude Clan and Crystal in the mystery-thriller Primrose Lane. Currently residing in Idaho, Matson founded PLATFORM for creative collaboration and works as an office manager for AnchorPoint Accounting.

Harold Matson

Harold Matson (1898–1988) was a prominent American literary agent and founder of the Harold Matson Company, renowned for his influential role in the book publishing industry. He represented esteemed authors such as Evelyn Waugh, C. S. Forester, and Flannery O'Connor. Matson's career was marked by significant achievements, including the record-setting $106,000 sale of paperback rights for Robert Ruark's "Something of Value." The New York Times recognized him as a pivotal figure in publishing, reflecting his impact and legacy.

Harold Matson was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and raised in San Francisco. Further details about his family background, parents, or ancestors are not available in the provided source text.

Ollie Matson

Ollie Matson was a renowned American Olympic medal-winning sprinter and professional football player, celebrated for his dynamic roles as a halfback and return specialist in the NFL. From 1952 to 1966, he played for the Chicago Cardinals and Los Angeles Rams, earning seven NFL first-team All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl honors. Matson's illustrious career highlights include his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1972 and his inclusion in the NFL's 1950s all-decade team. His remarkable track record extends to the 1952 Summer Olympics, where he secured a bronze in the 400-meter run and a silver in the 4x400-meter relay, underscoring his exceptional dual-sport prowess.

Matson's personal life was marked by his marriage to Mary, whom he met in San Francisco during their teenage years in the mid-1940s. The couple married in 1952 and shared a home in Los Angeles, reflecting a longstanding commitment to one another. Information about his parents or ancestors is not provided in the source text.

Randy Matson

James Randel "Randy" Matson, born March 5, 1945, is a celebrated American track and field athlete renowned for his exceptional achievements in shot put. Notably, Matson clinched a silver medal at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and a gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. He set the world record in shot put multiple times, with a personal best of 21.78 meters. Matson's accolades include being named Track and Field News' Men's Athlete of the Year in 1970 and receiving the James E. Sullivan Award in 1967. Post-retirement, he dedicated his career to Texas A&M University, serving in pivotal roles such as the executive director of The Association of Former Students.

Randy Matson was raised in Pampa, Texas, by his parents, Charles and Ellen Matson. His family played a significant role in his early life, as he began participating in track meets at age twelve, showcasing his athletic versatility. Matson's connection to Texas remained strong throughout his life, with his family residing in College Station, Texas. He is married to Margaret Burns, and together they have three children, all of whom graduated from Texas A&M University, continuing the family's deep ties to the institution.

William Matson

William Matson, born Wilhelm Mattson in Lysekil, Sweden, was a prominent American shipping executive and founder of the Matson Navigation Company. Known for his significant contributions to maritime commerce, Matson expanded his fleet to fourteen modern ships, facilitating trade between the Hawaiian Islands and the mainland U.S. He held prestigious roles such as President of multiple companies, including Honolulu Consolidated Oil Co., and served as Swedish Consul on the U.S. Pacific Coast. His legacy is cemented by his 1987 induction into the National Maritime Hall of Fame.

Matson was orphaned in his childhood and had an early life marked by maritime adventures from the age of ten. He married three times, fathering six children, including Walter Matson, who continued in his father's business footsteps.

Matson Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Matson" is an English-language surname with multiple possible origins. It is associated with various notable individuals across diverse fields, including politics, sports, and the arts, such as Aaron Matson, a U.S. Representative from New Hampshire, and Ollie Matson, an American football player and sprinter.

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Matson

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