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Penfold Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Penfold Surname

Penfold, occasionally spelled Pinfold, is an English-language surname with historical references dating back to the reign of Alfred the Great. The name originates from the Middle English term for a 'pinfold'—an enclosure for stray or unsupervised domesticated animals. Over the centuries, the Penfold name has become a part of England's rich tapestry, marking its significance in family history and genealogy.

As the surname evolved, the Penfold family began to spread geographically, initially rooted in England during the early 15th century. The Penfolds flourished in regions known for agriculture and trade, particularly in the southeastern parts of England. By the 16th century, the family name extended to areas like the Midlands and the North, reflecting a growing presence. This expansion continued into the 18th century as Penfolds established roots globally, migrating to North America and Australia, demonstrating their adaptability and influence in new communities.

YourRoots data supports the Penfold surname's early emergence in England and its spread through the centuries. The dataset confirms that the Penfold family began their lineage in the 15th century, aligning with historical records. The data further enriches the narrative by highlighting the Penfolds' geographical diversification, showing branches that extended to North America and Australia by the 19th century, underscoring their worldwide presence and contributions.

Today, the Penfold genealogy is a testament to a name that has traversed continents and cultures. For family history enthusiasts, the YourRoots database offers valuable Penfold records that can illuminate ancestral stories and connections within the expansive Penfold family tree. This resource is invaluable for those seeking to understand their heritage and the significant role the Penfolds have played in various regions across the globe.

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Tracing Your Penfold Family Lineage

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

The Penfold surname first appeared in England during the early 15th century, marking the beginning of a notable lineage. This initial record connects the Penfold family to the rich tapestry of English history, suggesting roots that intertwine with the significant events and social structures of that era. As families began to form and expand, the Penfold name became a cornerstone for future generations, setting the stage for its genealogical journey.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Penfold

Throughout the subsequent centuries, the Penfold family began to spread across England, particularly flourishing in various regions known for their agricultural and trade activities. Key areas where Penfold family lines emerged include the southeastern parts of England, where communities were closely-knit and family ties were strong. During these early centuries, branches of the Penfold family tree began to develop, reflecting the social customs and familial structures of the time.

As the centuries progressed, these family branches continued to grow, leading to a more diversified lineage. The Penfolds adapted to changing societal landscapes, which allowed them to establish themselves in different regions, further enriching their family history and connections.

Tracing the Penfold Family Tree Through the Centuries

The Penfold surname saw significant expansion across England and beyond from one century to the next. In the 16th century, the name became more prominent, with lines appearing in regions like the Midlands and the North, illustrating a broader geographical presence. By the 18th century, Penfolds began to establish roots in other parts of the world, including North America, as families migrated for opportunities and new beginnings.

Moving into the 19th century, the Penfold name continued to evolve, with branches reaching into Australia and other Commonwealth nations, reflecting the global movement of families during this period. This expansion not only signifies the adaptability of the Penfold family but also highlights their ongoing contributions to the communities they settled in, creating a rich genealogy that spans continents.

Where to Find Penfold Genealogy Records Today

In the modern centuries, the Penfold surname can be found in various countries, showcasing a widespread genealogy that has adapted over time. As families continued to migrate and settle in new regions, the Penfold name established a presence in North America, Australia, and parts of Europe, leading to a diverse family history. For those interested in exploring their own Penfold genealogy, the YourRoots database offers a wealth of records that can help individuals connect with their ancestral roots and uncover the stories behind their family trees.

Famous People with Penfold (and Their Family Tree)

Paula Penfold

Paula Penfold

Paula Penfold is a renowned New Zealand investigative journalist celebrated for her impactful career in radio and television. Her most prominent work includes the investigation into the wrongful conviction of Teina Pora, which led to his release and a significant compensation payout. Penfold's career highlights include her tenure at TVNZ, TV3, and her vital role in establishing the investigative unit Stuff Circuit at Fairfax. Her exceptional work has earned her accolades, including 'Reporter of the Year' at the 2019 New Zealand Television Awards. She has contributed to influential documentaries like "Big Decision" and "False Profit," enhancing her reputation in long-form investigative journalism.

Molly Penfold

Molly Penfold

Molly Mae Penfold, born on 15 June 2001, is a prominent New Zealand cricketer known for her dynamic performances with the Auckland Hearts. She made her mark in international cricket when she was added to New Zealand's Women's Twenty20 International squad in April 2021. Her career highlights include her Women's One Day International debut against England in September 2021 and being named a reserve for the 2022 Women's Cricket World Cup. Penfold continues to shine as she was selected for the 2024 ICC Women's T20 World Cup and the ODI tour to India in October 2024, showcasing her growing influence in the sport.

Born in Kingston Upon Thames, England, Molly Penfold moved to Auckland with her family at a young age. She shares her passion for cricket with her older sister, Josie, who also plays for Auckland. Penfold's education at Baradene College of the Sacred Heart in Auckland further roots her in the city, illustrating her deep connections to both her family and the local cricketing community.

Peter Penfold

Peter Penfold

Peter Alfred Penfold (1944–2023) was a distinguished British diplomat known for his pivotal roles, including Governor of the British Virgin Islands and High Commissioner to Sierra Leone. His career, spanning from 1963 to 2001, was marked by key achievements such as managing constitutional crises, organizing multiple evacuations of foreign nationals, and earning folk hero status in Sierra Leone for his support of President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah. Penfold's expertise in international relations and crisis management made him a vital figure in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, contributing to the establishment of the British Virgin Islands as an offshore financial center and navigating political upheavals in Uganda and Sierra Leone.

Peter Alfred Penfold was born to Alfred and Florence (née Green) in 1944. He was educated at Sutton Grammar School for Boys, where he excelled in languages and geography, laying the foundation for his future diplomatic career.

Bernard Penfold

Bernard Penfold

Major-General Robert Bernard Penfold CB LVO was a distinguished British Army officer, known for his leadership in various military roles. Born on December 19, 1916, Penfold began his military career with the Leicestershire Regiment in 1936, later serving with the Indian Army and Royal Artillery. His notable positions included commanding the 6th Battalion King's African Rifles in Tanganyika, leading the 127th Infantry Brigade, and serving as the Security Operations Advisor during the Aden Emergency. He ultimately became the Chief of Defence Staff for the Kenya Defence Forces and later the General Officer Commanding South East District. After retiring in 1972, Penfold became the first general manager of the Royal Hong Kong Jockey Club, where Penfold Park was named in his honor.

Christopher Penfold

Christopher Penfold

Christopher Penfold (1941–2024) was a renowned British scriptwriter and editor, celebrated for his significant contributions to television. A key figure behind Gerry Anderson's iconic science fiction series Space: 1999, Penfold served as a story consultant and wrote several episodes, including "Guardian of Piri" and "Dragon's Domain." His work extended to popular TV shows such as Pathfinders, EastEnders, and Midsomer Murders. He also penned the screenplay for the film Take Me High. Penfold's involvement in these projects established him as an influential creative force in the entertainment industry.

Born in Bristol, England, Christopher Penfold was the son of Leonard Penfold, a local vicar, and Kathleen Penfold, a lab technician. This family background in a religious and scientific setting may have influenced his storytelling approach and creative endeavors.

Penfold Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Penfold," sometimes spelled "Pinfold," is of English origin and dates back to the time of Alfred the Great. It derives from the Middle English word for a pound or enclosure used for stray domesticated animals.

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Where to Find Genealogy Records for Penfold

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

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