Sisson Family Genealogy & History

Rosemary Anne Sisson (1923–2017) was an acclaimed English television dramatist and novelist, celebrated for her mastery in period storytelling. Her significant contributions to British television include scripts for "The Six Wives of Henry VIII," "Upstairs, Downstairs," and collaborations on Disney films like "Candleshoe." Sisson's work extended to adaptations for Cosgrove Hall and the "Young Indiana Jones Chronicles." Her literary pursuits included both adult and children's novels, with notable titles being "The Excise Man" and "The Impractical Chimney Sweep." Sisson's dedication to the Writers' Guild of Great Britain further underscores her influence in the literary world.

Sisson was born in Enfield Town, Middlesex, to Charles Jasper Sisson, a renowned Shakespeare scholar and professor, and Vera Kathleen, the daughter of David George Ginn. Her father's work in Shakespearean studies and her mother's lineage contributed to a rich intellectual environment that likely influenced Sisson's literary path. She also had an elder sister and attended Cheltenham Ladies' College, nurturing her love for literature.

C. H. Sisson, a renowned British poet, novelist, and translator, was born on April 22, 1914, in Bristol and passed away on September 5, 2003. He gained prominence through his modernist poetry and intellectual contributions, aligning with figures such as T. E. Hulme and Wyndham Lewis. Sisson's career in the British Civil Service was distinguished, culminating as Director of Occupational Safety and Health. His notable works include the novel "Christopher Homm" and the influential text "The Spirit of British Administration." In 1993, he was honored as a Member of the Order of the Companions of Honour for his literary contributions.

C. H. Sisson was born to Richard Percy Sisson and Ellen Minnie Sisson (née Worlock). He married Nora Gilbertson in 1937, and they had two daughters.

John Richard Sisson, born on October 16, 1936, is renowned for his significant contributions to academia, particularly at Ohio State University. Serving as the acting President from December 1997 to June 1998, Sisson played a pivotal role during a transitional period following Elwood Gordon Gee's departure. A distinguished alumnus, he earned both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Ohio State and later obtained a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley. Sisson held key academic and administrative positions at the United States Military Academy, UCLA, and Ohio State, where he was Provost from 1993 to 1998. His expertise in political science was recognized when he was named "Distinguished Alumnus" of the year in 2002.

Jonathan Sisson (1690–1747) was a pioneering English instrument maker renowned for inventing the modern theodolite with a sighting telescope, revolutionizing surveying techniques. Born in Lincolnshire, he apprenticed under George Graham and gained acclaim for his precision instruments, including altazimuth theodolites and surveying levels. Appointed as the mathematical instrument maker to Frederick, Prince of Wales in 1729, Sisson's innovations were vital for both the Royal Navy and merchant ships. He collaborated with notable figures like John Bird and mentored apprentices who contributed to the field globally, including in the American colonies.