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Sign up freeNance Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Nance Surname
The Nance surname is of Cornish origin and first appeared in England during the early 16th century. This name, rooted in the British Isles, marks the establishment of the Nance family tree and offers insights into the historical context of its bearers. Over the centuries, the name has become associated with various professions and notable figures, enriching its significance in family histories and genealogical studies.
As the Nance name spread, it found prominence in England before branching out across the Atlantic in the 17th century. This movement of the Nance family tree is indicative of broader migration trends, with families establishing themselves in North America. By the 18th century, Nance families had laid down roots in the United States, contributing significantly to the cultural and social landscape, with various descendants becoming prominent in fields such as politics, sports, and entertainment.
YourRoots data confirms the early presence of the Nance surname in England, consistent with historical records from the 16th century. The expansion of the Nance genealogy into North America during the 17th and 18th centuries aligns with documented migration patterns, illustrating the adaptability and resilience of the family. This data provides a deeper understanding of how the Nance lineage evolved, complementing historical narratives and offering a rich resource for those exploring their ancestry.
Today, Nance records continue to be a valuable resource for genealogy enthusiasts, with YourRoots highlighting the widespread presence of the name in North America. By examining these records, researchers can trace the Nance family tree through centuries of change and growth, uncovering connections that might inform their own family histories and preserving the enduring legacy of the Nance surname.
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TNThomas Vaughn NanceBirth: 1740 – 1811 Mecklenburg County, Virginia, USADeath: 1740 – 1811 Randolph County, North Carolina, USAFather: Daniel Charles NanceMother: Mary Ann DanielReliability Score: CTNThomas Vaughn NanceBirth: 1740 – 1811 Mecklenburg County, Virginia, USADeath: 1740 – 1811 Randolph County, North Carolina, USAFather: Daniel Charles NanceMother: Mary Ann DanielReliability Score: C
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FNFred Franklin "Freddie" NanceBirth: 1897 – 1960 KentuckyDeath: 1897 – 1960 Christian, KentuckyFather: Robert A. HayesMother: Queen Ellen Victoria SandersonReliability Score: N/AFNFred Franklin "Freddie" NanceBirth: 1897 – 1960 KentuckyDeath: 1897 – 1960 Christian, KentuckyFather: Robert A. HayesMother: Queen Ellen Victoria SandersonReliability Score: N/A
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ENElizabeth NanceBirth: 1728 – 1775 Bristol Parish, Prince George, Virginia, USADeath: 1728 – 1775 Granville, North Carolina ColonyFather: Daniel Charles NanceMother: Mary Ann DanielReliability Score: CENElizabeth NanceBirth: 1728 – 1775 Bristol Parish, Prince George, Virginia, USADeath: 1728 – 1775 Granville, North Carolina ColonyFather: Daniel Charles NanceMother: Mary Ann DanielReliability Score: C
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JNJoseph C. NanceBirth: 1772 – 1820 Bladen County, North Carolina, United States of AmericaDeath: 1772 – 1820 Bladen County, North Carolina, USAFather: Thomas Vaughn NanceMother: Elizabeth Ann Nance (Hudson)Reliability Score: CJNJoseph C. NanceBirth: 1772 – 1820 Bladen County, North Carolina, United States of AmericaDeath: 1772 – 1820 Bladen County, North Carolina, USAFather: Thomas Vaughn NanceMother: Elizabeth Ann Nance (Hudson)Reliability Score: C
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TNThomas Vaughn NanceBirth: 1782 – 1874 Mecklenburg County, Virginia, USADeath: 1782 – 1874 Randolph, North Carolina, USAFather: Thomas Vaughn NanceMother: Elizabeth Ann Nance (Hudson)Reliability Score: CTNThomas Vaughn NanceBirth: 1782 – 1874 Mecklenburg County, Virginia, USADeath: 1782 – 1874 Randolph, North Carolina, USAFather: Thomas Vaughn NanceMother: Elizabeth Ann Nance (Hudson)Reliability Score: C
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VNVirginia "Jincy" NANCEBirth: 1796 – 1872 Dinwiddie County, Virginia, USA?Death: 1796 – 1872 Lebanon, DeKalb, Alabama, USA?Father: Nathaniel NANCEMother: Susannah GIBBSReliability Score: AVNVirginia "Jincy" NANCEBirth: 1796 – 1872 Dinwiddie County, Virginia, USA?Death: 1796 – 1872 Lebanon, DeKalb, Alabama, USA?Father: Nathaniel NANCEMother: Susannah GIBBSReliability Score: A
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ENEdmund R. NanceBirth: 1825 – 1862 Kentucky, United StatesDeath: 1825 – 1862 KentuckyFather: Buckner NanceMother: Ellender (Nellie) FroggettReliability Score: CENEdmund R. NanceBirth: 1825 – 1862 Kentucky, United StatesDeath: 1825 – 1862 KentuckyFather: Buckner NanceMother: Ellender (Nellie) FroggettReliability Score: C
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ENElizabeth NanceBirth: 1715 – 1796 Virginia, USADeath: 1715 – 1796 Amelia, Virginia, United StatesFather: John MayMother: Mary BowerReliability Score: CENElizabeth NanceBirth: 1715 – 1796 Virginia, USADeath: 1715 – 1796 Amelia, Virginia, United StatesFather: John MayMother: Mary BowerReliability Score: C
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WNWilliam Smith NanceBirth: 1945 – 2010 Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana, USADeath: 1945 – 2010 Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana, USAFather: Martin Luther NanceMother: Elizabeth Ann HoffmanReliability Score: BWNWilliam Smith NanceBirth: 1945 – 2010 Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana, USADeath: 1945 – 2010 Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana, USAFather: Martin Luther NanceMother: Elizabeth Ann HoffmanReliability Score: B
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FNFred Franklin NanceBirth: 1897 – 1960 McCracken County, Kentucky, USADeath: 1897 – 1960 Christian County, Kentucky, USAFather: John Watt NanceMother: Queen Ellen Victoria SandersonReliability Score: CFNFred Franklin NanceBirth: 1897 – 1960 McCracken County, Kentucky, USADeath: 1897 – 1960 Christian County, Kentucky, USAFather: John Watt NanceMother: Queen Ellen Victoria SandersonReliability Score: C
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HNHattie "Elizabeth" NanceBirth: 1880 – 1900 Harrison County, Indiana, USADeath: 1880 – 1900 Floyd County, Indiana, United States of AmericaFather: Charles Henry NanceMother: Malinda SmithReliability Score: AHNHattie "Elizabeth" NanceBirth: 1880 – 1900 Harrison County, Indiana, USADeath: 1880 – 1900 Floyd County, Indiana, United States of AmericaFather: Charles Henry NanceMother: Malinda SmithReliability Score: A
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DNDaniel Charles NanceBirth: 1706 – 1784 Bristol Parish, Prince George County, Virginia, USADeath: 1706 – 1784 Randolph County, North Carolina, United States of AmericaFather: Daniel Nance m. RoyallMother: Elizabeth HillReliability Score: CDNDaniel Charles NanceBirth: 1706 – 1784 Bristol Parish, Prince George County, Virginia, USADeath: 1706 – 1784 Randolph County, North Carolina, United States of AmericaFather: Daniel Nance m. RoyallMother: Elizabeth HillReliability Score: C
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VNVicki L. NanceBirth: 1956 – 1986 Indianapolis, Marion, Indiana, USADeath: 1956 – 1986 Montgomery, IndianaFather: Ralph Pedigo NanceMother: Nancy Sue HollisReliability Score: BVNVicki L. NanceBirth: 1956 – 1986 Indianapolis, Marion, Indiana, USADeath: 1956 – 1986 Montgomery, IndianaFather: Ralph Pedigo NanceMother: Nancy Sue HollisReliability Score: B
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NNNathaniel NANCEBirth: 1731 – 1790 Virginia, USA?Death: 1731 – 1790 South Carolina, USA?Father: Richard NANCEMother: Mary Leonard VAUGHNReliability Score: ANNNathaniel NANCEBirth: 1731 – 1790 Virginia, USA?Death: 1731 – 1790 South Carolina, USA?Father: Richard NANCEMother: Mary Leonard VAUGHNReliability Score: A
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SNSalina Octavia McCarley NanceBirth: 1856 – 1939 Mississippi, United States of AmericaDeath: 1856 – 1939 Florida, United States of AmericaFather: Moses Green Lee McCarleyMother: Malviry M. McCarleyReliability Score: CSNSalina Octavia McCarley NanceBirth: 1856 – 1939 Mississippi, United States of AmericaDeath: 1856 – 1939 Florida, United States of AmericaFather: Moses Green Lee McCarleyMother: Malviry M. McCarleyReliability Score: C
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MNMary Josephine NanceBirth: 1854 – 1932 Washington, ArkansasDeath: 1854 – 1932 San Marcos, Hays, Texas, USAFather: James NanceMother: Sarah GibbonsReliability Score: AMNMary Josephine NanceBirth: 1854 – 1932 Washington, ArkansasDeath: 1854 – 1932 San Marcos, Hays, Texas, USAFather: James NanceMother: Sarah GibbonsReliability Score: A
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ENE C NanceBirth: 1921 – 1977 Marshall, Kentucky, USADeath: 1921 – 1977 Paducah, McCracken, Kentucky, USAFather: Epsy Washington NanceMother: Helen FarmerReliability Score: N/AENE C NanceBirth: 1921 – 1977 Marshall, Kentucky, USADeath: 1921 – 1977 Paducah, McCracken, Kentucky, USAFather: Epsy Washington NanceMother: Helen FarmerReliability Score: N/A
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LNLuella NanceBirth: 1898 – 1941 Floyd County, Indiana, United States of AmericaDeath: 1898 – 1941 Floyd County, Indiana, United States of AmericaFather: Charles Henry NanceMother: Malinda SmithReliability Score: BLNLuella NanceBirth: 1898 – 1941 Floyd County, Indiana, United States of AmericaDeath: 1898 – 1941 Floyd County, Indiana, United States of AmericaFather: Charles Henry NanceMother: Malinda SmithReliability Score: B
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MNMary Ann NanceBirth: 1813 – 1900 Tennessee, United States of AmericaDeath: 1813 – 1900 Tennessee, United States of AmericaFather: Joseph HillMother: Rebecca MooreReliability Score: BMNMary Ann NanceBirth: 1813 – 1900 Tennessee, United States of AmericaDeath: 1813 – 1900 Tennessee, United States of AmericaFather: Joseph HillMother: Rebecca MooreReliability Score: B
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FNFred Franklin NanceBirth: 1897 – 1960 Kentucky, United States of AmericaDeath: 1897 – 1960 Christian County, Kentucky, United States of AmericaFather: Robert A HaysMother: Queen Ellen Victoria SandersonReliability Score: N/AFNFred Franklin NanceBirth: 1897 – 1960 Kentucky, United States of AmericaDeath: 1897 – 1960 Christian County, Kentucky, United States of AmericaFather: Robert A HaysMother: Queen Ellen Victoria SandersonReliability Score: N/A
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Tracing Your Nance Family Lineage
Origin of the Nance Family: Where does the Nance surname come from?
The Nance surname first appears in historical records from England during the early 16th century. This early mention marks the beginning of the Nance family tree, suggesting a lineage rooted in the British Isles. Such origins provide a fascinating glimpse into how this name and its bearers may have influenced the family dynamics and migrations in the centuries that followed.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Nance
In its formative centuries, the Nance family began to spread primarily throughout England, establishing a foundation that would later support migration across the Atlantic. During the 17th century, branches of the Nance family tree began to take root in various regions, indicating a movement towards North America. This era saw families expanding their connections and adapting to new environments, which is crucial for understanding the evolution of the Nance lineage.
As families grew, the Nance name became associated with specific areas, particularly in the United States, where it started to proliferate significantly in the 18th century. The establishment of family lines during this period laid the groundwork for future generations, creating a more complex family network that would contribute to the rich tapestry of Nance heritage. These early families often formed close-knit communities that would influence their descendants' identities.
Tracing the Nance Family Tree Through the Centuries
Throughout the centuries, the Nance surname experienced considerable expansion beyond its English roots, particularly in North America. By the 18th century, Nance families had established themselves in various states, contributing to the name's prominence in the United States. The 19th century saw even greater growth, with the Nance family tree branching out across the continent, revealing connections in diverse regions and adapting to the changing landscape.
As the Nance surname continued to evolve, it also spread to other parts of the world, reflecting the global movement of families during the 19th and 20th centuries. The Nance lineage became intertwined with various cultures and communities, showcasing adaptability and resilience throughout its history. This rich narrative underscores the importance of exploring family ties and shared heritage as descendants continue to trace their roots.
Where to Find Nance Genealogy Records Today
In modern centuries, the Nance surname can be found across multiple regions, with a particularly strong presence in North America. The 20th century solidified the Nance family's place in the United States, where many individuals still seek to connect with their ancestral roots. Readers are encouraged to explore Nance genealogy records in the YourRoots database, as they may uncover significant links to their own family trees, continuing the legacy of the Nance lineage.
Famous People with Nance (and Their Family Tree)
Jack Nance
Jack Nance, born Marvin John Nance, was a renowned American actor best known for his collaborations with filmmaker David Lynch. He gained fame for his lead role in Lynch's cult classic, “Eraserhead” (1977), and later as Pete Martell in the iconic TV series “Twin Peaks” (1990–1991). Nance's career spanned multiple Lynch projects, including “Blue Velvet” (1986) and “Lost Highway” (1997). Despite initial setbacks, his distinctive performances garnered a cult following, solidifying his place in cinematic history.
Born on December 21, 1943, in Boston, Jack Nance was the son of Agnes (née O'Grady) and Marvin Hoyt Nance. He grew up in Dallas, where his father was a Neiman Marcus executive, and pursued acting after studying journalism at North Texas State University.
Larry Nance
Larry Donnell Nance Sr., born on February 12, 1959, is a renowned former professional basketball player who left a significant mark in the NBA. As a forward, Nance played 14 seasons with the Phoenix Suns and Cleveland Cavaliers, earning three NBA All-Star titles. He is celebrated as the first winner of the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 1984, earning him the nickname "The High-Ayatolla of Slamola." Known for his consistency, he maintained an average of over 16 points and 8 rebounds per game. Additionally, Nance was a formidable shot blocker, holding the record for most blocked shots by a non-center upon his retirement.
Nance's legacy continues through his family, with his son Larry Nance Jr. following in his footsteps, playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers. His daughter, Casey Nance, played college basketball for Dayton, and another son, Pete Nance, played for Northwestern and North Carolina before joining the Cavaliers in 2024. The Nance family has a strong basketball lineage, with multiple members achieving success in the sport.
Jim Nance
James Solomon "Big Jim" Nance was a celebrated American football fullback, known for his powerful performances with the Boston Patriots in the American Football League (AFL). Born on December 30, 1942, Nance was a key player for the Patriots, becoming the only AFL player to rush for over 1,400 yards in a season and earning the AFL MVP award in 1966. He was inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2009. Nance also excelled in college sports at Syracuse University, where he was a wrestling national champion. Throughout his career, he was a trailblazer in professional football, leading the WFL in rushing before his retirement.
John J. Nance
John J. Nance, born July 5, 1946, in Dallas, Texas, is a renowned American pilot, attorney, aviation analyst, and best-selling author. Notable for his roles in aviation safety and healthcare analysis, Nance has served as a United States Air Force pilot during the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm. A distinguished analyst for ABC News, he has contributed extensively to Good Morning America and World News Tonight. His literary achievements include bestselling books like "Pandora's Clock" and "Medusa's Child," adapted for television. Nance is also acclaimed for his work in healthcare safety, notably authoring "Why Hospitals Should Fly" and creating the Red Cover Reports for healthcare incident analysis.
Eric Nance
Eric Randall Nance was an American man convicted of murder and executed in Arkansas in 2005. Known for the murder of Julie Heath in 1993, Nance's case drew attention due to the circumstances of the crime and his past criminal record. His trial revealed a prior conviction for assaulting two girls in 1982, and his execution was notable as Arkansas' first since 2004. Nance's story also gained some attention through his correspondence with James Nelson, an Irish tenor who set Nance's poem to music, reflecting on the death penalty and its implications.
Nance Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Nance" is of Cornish origin. It is associated with various notable individuals, primarily in the United States, spanning fields such as politics, sports, entertainment, and academia.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Nance
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 Nance family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Nance surname to learn more.
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