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)

Pettit Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Pettit Surname

The Pettit surname is of English origin, with Hiberno-Norman roots, and its earliest recorded appearances date back to the early 13th century. The name is believed to have been derived from a diminutive form of "petit," a word of Norman origin meaning "small" or "little." As a family name, Pettit eventually took hold in England, where it became part of the broader tapestry of English genealogy. Over time, variant spellings such as Pettitt and Petitt emerged, reflecting regional dialects and spellings.

Throughout history, the Pettit surname has evolved culturally and geographically. By the late medieval period and early modern era, the Pettit family had established significant roots in southern England. As the family tree expanded, Pettit descendants began spreading further afield. The surname's reach extended beyond England during the colonial era, with many Pettits migrating to the Americas in the 17th century. This movement contributed to the surname's presence across different states in the United States, and the family continued to grow and diversify over subsequent centuries.

YourRoots data offers valuable insights into the Pettit family history, confirming the surname's origins in England as early as the 13th century. The records highlight the surname's spread during the late medieval and early modern periods, showcasing the Pettit family's migration patterns and expansion into new regions. By the 19th century, Pettit records in the United States reflected dynamic migration patterns, illustrating how the family adapted to new environments while maintaining connections to their English heritage.

For genealogy enthusiasts and family-tree researchers, the YourRoots database provides a comprehensive collection of Pettit genealogy records. These resources are invaluable for those looking to explore their heritage and connect with Pettit family members across history. The data offers a robust foundation for constructing a detailed Pettit family tree, enriching the understanding of this surname's enduring legacy.

← START A NEW SEARCH

Find the Pettit Family Tree

Search more Pettit trees & genealogy records

Records

Search more trees & records for
Pettit for free

SIGNUP

Tracing Your Pettit Family Lineage

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

The Pettit surname first appears in historical records in England during the early 13th century, marking the beginning of a genealogical journey for families bearing this name. This initial record establishes a foundation for tracing the Pettit family's lineage and connections over the centuries. The origins in England set the stage for the growth of the Pettit family tree and its subsequent branches across various regions.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Pettit

In the following centuries, the Pettit family began to establish itself prominently in England, particularly during the late medieval period and into the early modern era. Key regions such as southern England became notable hubs for Pettit family lines, with branches developing as families expanded and settled in new areas. Over time, these families built intricate family trees, intermarrying with other local families and contributing to the rich tapestry of English genealogy.

The spread of the Pettit surname was significant during the late medieval and early modern centuries, showcasing an increase in family members and descendants. As the family grew, various branches emerged, each carrying the Pettit name while adapting to local customs and traditions. This period of expansion laid the groundwork for the future migration of Pettit families beyond England.

Tracing the Pettit Family Tree Through the Centuries

As the centuries progressed, the Pettit surname began to extend beyond England, notably into the Americas during the period of colonization. In the 17th century, a significant number of Pettits migrated to what would become the United States, where they established roots and further diversified the family tree. This growth continued into the 18th and 19th centuries, with Pettit families spreading across various states, contributing to the expanding American landscape.

Throughout the 19th century, the Pettit surname was recorded in numerous regions of the United States, evidencing a dynamic migration pattern that reflected broader societal changes. The family's continued expansion into the 20th century saw Pettit descendants establishing themselves in diverse areas, maintaining connections to their English roots while adapting to life in a new country. This global spread illustrates the resilience and adaptability of the Pettit family over generations.

Where to Find Pettit Genealogy Records Today

In modern times, the Pettit surname remains prevalent, with significant populations in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The 20th and 21st centuries have seen continued interest in genealogy, with many Pettit descendants exploring their heritage and connecting with long-lost relatives. For those looking to trace their Pettit family roots, the YourRoots database offers a wealth of records that can assist in uncovering personal family histories and building a comprehensive family tree.

Famous People with Pettit (and Their Family Tree)

Donald Pettit

Donald Roy Pettit, born April 20, 1955, is a renowned American astronaut and chemical engineer, celebrated for his innovative contributions to space exploration and science communication. Pettit, an Eagle Scout and an Oregon State University alumnus, has embarked on three long-duration International Space Station missions and one Space Shuttle mission, accumulating 590 days in space, ranking him among NASA's most experienced astronauts. He is particularly acclaimed for his orbital astrophotography and in-space inventions like the Zero G Cup, the first patented object invented in space. Pettit's work has left a lasting impact on the scientific community, and at 70, he remains NASA's oldest active astronaut as of 2025.

Bob Pettit

Robert Lee Pettit Jr. is a legendary American basketball player and Hall of Famer, celebrated for his remarkable NBA career with the Milwaukee/St. Louis Hawks from 1954 to 1965. Known for being the first NBA player to score over 20,000 points, Pettit was a two-time NBA MVP and a four-time NBA All-Star Game MVP. His career highlights include leading the Hawks in rebounds and being named to all four NBA anniversary teams, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest power forwards in basketball history.

Born on December 12, 1932, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Pettit's early life was shaped by his father, who served as the sheriff of East Baton Rouge Parish. His father's encouragement and dedication played a crucial role in Pettit's development as a basketball player, driving him to practice and improve his skills, ultimately leading to a successful high school and collegiate career.

George Pettit

George Frederick Douglas Pettit, born on October 2, 1982, is a renowned Canadian musician celebrated for his role as the lead vocalist of the post-hardcore band Alexisonfire. Emerging from Grimsby, Ontario, Pettit has made significant contributions to the music scene, not only with Alexisonfire but also as the frontman for Dead Tired. He has collaborated with various artists and bands, including Cancer Bats and Monster Truck, and has appeared as a guest vocalist on tracks by Fucked Up and Jude the Obscure. Beyond performing, Pettit has engaged in television, hosting Strange Notes and participating as a juror on Video On Trial, further showcasing his diverse artistic talents.

Philip Pettit

Philip Noel Pettit, born in 1945, is a distinguished Irish philosopher and political theorist renowned for his contributions to civic republicanism. He holds prestigious academic positions as the Laurance Rockefeller University Professor of Human Values at Princeton University and Distinguished University Professor of Philosophy at the Australian National University. Pettit's influential works, including "Republicanism: A Theory of Freedom and Government," have impacted political reforms, notably in Spain under José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero. His recognition spans numerous honors, such as election to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the British Academy, reflecting his significant influence in philosophy and political theory.

Steve Pettit

Steve Pettit, an influential American Christian evangelist, served as the fifth president of Bob Jones University from 2014 to 2023. Known for his leadership, Pettit was instrumental in achieving regional accreditation for the university, regaining its tax-exempt status, and enhancing its sports programs. He founded the Steve Pettit Evangelistic Association and directed Northland Camp and Conference Center, contributing significantly to evangelism efforts across the U.S. and internationally. Additionally, Pettit is a musician, playing the mandolin, and an author of devotional books. In 2024, he was appointed president of the Palmetto Family Council.

Steve Pettit was born in Quitman, Georgia, and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, after his parents, who met in the U.S. Air Force, relocated there. His mother founded a workshop theater, nurturing his early interests in performance.

Pettit Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Pettit" is of English origin with roots in Hiberno-Norman ancestry. It has variant spellings such as Pettitt and Petitt.

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Pettit

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