Paterson Family Genealogy & History

David Alexander Paterson is an influential American politician and attorney who served as the 55th governor of New York from 2008 to 2010. As a trailblazer, Paterson became the first legally blind and African-American governor of New York. Before his governorship, he was elected to the New York State Senate, a position previously held by his father, Basil Paterson. Notable for his leadership during the Great Recession, Paterson implemented significant state budget cuts and made key appointments, including Kirsten Gillibrand to the U.S. Senate. Post-governorship, he ventured into radio hosting and was chairman of the New York Democratic Party.

David Paterson was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Portia Hairston Paterson and Basil Paterson, with deep roots tracing back to African American slaves and Eastern European Jewish ancestry. His paternal grandmother, Evangeline Rondon Paterson, worked with Marcus Garvey, while his grandfather, Leonard James Paterson, hailed from Carriacou. Despite visual impairments since infancy, Paterson's family ensured he received mainstream education, leading to his graduation from Columbia College and Hofstra Law School.

Andrew Barton "Banjo" Paterson (1864–1941) was a renowned Australian bush poet, journalist, and author, celebrated for his vivid depictions of the Australian outback. His career highlights include writing iconic poems like "Clancy of the Overflow" and "The Man from Snowy River" for The Bulletin, as well as the ballad "Waltzing Matilda," known as Australia's unofficial national anthem. Paterson also made significant contributions as a war correspondent during the Second Boer War and served in various capacities during World War I, showcasing his diverse talents and commitment to storytelling.

Banjo Paterson was born near Orange, New South Wales, to Andrew Bogle Paterson, a Scottish immigrant, and Rose Isabella Barton, who was related to Edmund Barton, Australia's first prime minister. His early life on Buckinbah Station and later at a farm near Yass exposed him to rural Australian life, which heavily influenced his literary works.

Katherine Womeldorf Paterson, born on October 31, 1932, in China, is a renowned American author celebrated for her children's literature. Her acclaimed works, including "Bridge to Terabithia," have earned her prestigious awards such as two Newbery Medals, two National Book Awards, the Hans Christian Andersen Award, and the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award. Paterson's career spans over four decades, and she served as the U.S. National Ambassador for Young People's Literature from 2010 to 2011. Her stories often explore challenging themes, resonating deeply with readers worldwide.

Katherine Paterson was born to Presbyterian missionaries G. Raymond and Mary Womeldorf in Huai'an, China. The family immersed themselves in Chinese culture before fleeing due to the Japanese invasion in 1937. They later settled in various towns across Virginia and North Carolina, eventually settling in Winchester, Virginia. Paterson's rich multicultural upbringing significantly influenced her writing and worldview.

Jennifer Mary Paterson was a celebrated British celebrity cook, author, and television personality known for her role on the television show "Two Fat Ladies." Alongside Clarissa Dickson Wright, she gained fame for preparing rich, traditional meals. Paterson also contributed to culinary literature with works like "Feast Days: Recipes from The Spectator." Her career highlights include writing a cookery column for The Spectator and The Oldie, and appearing on various TV shows, enhancing her visibility in the culinary world.

Paterson hailed from an Army family and had a unique upbringing. Her mother was uninterested in cooking, maintaining a diet of gorgonzola, coffee, and chocolates, while her father was too intimidated by kitchen tasks after surviving two World Wars.