Phipps Family Genealogy & History

William Edward Phipps, born on February 4, 1922, was a renowned American actor and producer, celebrated for his roles in films and television. Known for voicing Prince Charming in Disney's "Cinderella," Phipps also gained recognition in films like "Crossfire" and TV series such as "Gunsmoke" and "Bat Masterson." After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, he pursued acting in Hollywood, leading to a successful career spanning decades. His contributions to the entertainment industry were honored by Eastern Illinois University with a film festival and an honorary doctorate.

William Phipps grew up in St. Francisville, Illinois, where his parents divorced when he was six. He initially used his stepfather's last name, Couch, during his high school years.

Ogden Phipps was a prominent American stockbroker, court tennis champion, and thoroughbred horse racing executive. Known for his role as a founding member of the New York Racing Association and chairman of The Jockey Club, Phipps was also a notable art collector and philanthropist. His achievements in horse racing include breeding champions like Buckpasser and Personal Ensign, and owning stakes in the legendary Secretariat. His business acumen was evident with ventures like Phipps Plaza, Atlanta's first multi-level mall, which he sold for a substantial profit.

Born in New York City, Ogden Phipps was the son of Henry Carnegie Phipps and Gladys Livingston Mills. His grandfather, Henry Phipps, was a significant philanthropist and major shareholder in Carnegie Steel Company. Ogden was named after his uncle, Ogden L. Mills, further highlighting his family's influence and prominence.

Martin Phipps, a distinguished British composer born on August 1, 1968, is renowned for his work on film and television projects. Phipps achieved critical acclaim with scores for BBC dramas like "North & South" and "The Virgin Queen," winning the Ivor Novello Award for Best Original Score. Notable works include "Wallander," earning a BAFTA Craft Award, and "Small Island," which garnered him a BAFTA Craft Award for Best Original Television Music. His collaborations extend to creating soundtracks for "War & Peace," "The Crown," and working alongside Hans Zimmer on "Woman in Gold." Phipps's music is lauded for its depth and richness, making him a sought-after composer in the industry.

Martin Phipps is the son of Sue Pears and Jack Phipps, an arts administrator who founded a management agency representing prominent musical figures, including Benjamin Britten, Phipps's godfather. This artistic lineage provides insight into Phipps's musical influences and career path.

Lillian Bostwick Phipps was a prominent American socialite and a renowned figure in the world of Thoroughbred steeplechase racing. She owned legendary horses like Neji and Oedipus, who collectively earned six American Steeplechase Champion titles and were inducted into the U.S. Racing Hall of Fame. A notable philanthropist, she served on the boards of the Visiting Nurse Service of New York and the Metropolitan Opera Association, and chaired the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. Her influence extended to interior design, where she played a crucial role in the success of Robert Denning & Vincent Fourcade's firm.

Born in New York City, Lillian was the daughter of Mary Stokes and Albert Carlton Bostwick, and the granddaughter of Jabez A. Bostwick, a founding partner of the Standard Oil Company with John D. Rockefeller. Her father’s passion for horses inspired her involvement in horse racing, a passion shared with her brothers. She married Ogden Phipps, a member of the influential Phipps family, further cementing her ties to American aristocracy.