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Sign up freeSpence Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Spence Surname
The Spence surname has its origins in Scotland, where it first emerged during a significant historical period. Rooted in Scottish heritage, the name Spence became a symbol of familial identity, with its early mentions laying the groundwork for extensive family trees. Over time, the Spence surname evolved into a legacy of cultural and historical significance, contributing to the rich tapestry of Scottish ancestry.
As the centuries progressed, the Spence surname geographically expanded beyond its Scottish roots. In the 15th century, the name gained traction as families spread into various regions of Scotland, enriching local histories. By the 18th century, the Spence family tree had branched out into England and even crossed the Atlantic, establishing significant roots in the United States. This migration and adaptation highlight the Spence family's resilience and ability to thrive in diverse environments.
The YourRoots dataset confirms the Spence surname's deep historical presence in Scotland, aligning with its earliest appearances in genealogical records. It illustrates the surname's growth during the 15th century and its subsequent spread into the United Kingdom and the United States by the 18th century. This data enriches our understanding of the Spence genealogy and the family’s journey through time and geography.
Today, the Spence family tree is a testament to a rich and varied lineage, with the YourRoots dataset providing valuable insights for those exploring their Spence genealogy. The global distribution of the Spence surname, as shown in these records, continues to captivate family historians and genealogy enthusiasts alike, making it a vibrant subject for research and exploration.
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Records
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DSDavid E Spence1666–1726Public Tree Person6 treesScore: BDSDavid E Spence1666–1726Public Tree Person6 treesScore: B
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DSDavid Spence1639–1679Public Tree Person5 treesScore: BDSDavid Spence1639–1679Public Tree Person5 treesScore: B
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ASAgnes (DGGM13) Urquhart, Spence1516–1580Public Tree Person5 treesScore: BASAgnes (DGGM13) Urquhart, Spence1516–1580Public Tree Person5 treesScore: B
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ISIsabella Spence1595–1685Public Tree Person3 treesScore: BISIsabella Spence1595–1685Public Tree Person3 treesScore: B
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WSWilliam Spence1638–1702Public Tree Person3 treesScore: BWSWilliam Spence1638–1702Public Tree Person3 treesScore: B
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DSDavid Spence1628–1700Public Tree PersonParents: David Spence3 treesScore: CDSDavid Spence1628–1700Public Tree PersonParents: David Spence3 treesScore: C
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ASAgnes Jane Spence1876–1946Individual Tree PersonParents: Samuel Spence & Sarah HerridgeSpouse: Andrew OsborneChildren: Margaret, William, Thomas, Rebecca, Sarah, Mary, SamuelScore: AASAgnes Jane Spence1876–1946Individual Tree PersonParents: Samuel Spence & Sarah HerridgeSpouse: Andrew OsborneChildren: Margaret, William, Thomas, Rebecca, Sarah, Mary, SamuelScore: A
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ASAlbert Bennett Spence1881–1945Individual Tree PersonParents: John Spence & Susannah CourageScore: BASAlbert Bennett Spence1881–1945Individual Tree PersonParents: John Spence & Susannah CourageScore: B
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ASAdam Spence1765–1769Individual Tree PersonParents: David Spence & Janet SpenceScore: BASAdam Spence1765–1769Individual Tree PersonParents: David Spence & Janet SpenceScore: B
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ASAgnes Spence1803–1862Individual Tree PersonParents: Andrew Spence & Jannet ArchibaldScore: BASAgnes Spence1803–1862Individual Tree PersonParents: Andrew Spence & Jannet ArchibaldScore: B
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ASAgnes Spence1872–1873Individual Tree PersonParents: Peter Spence & Janet PurdieScore: BASAgnes Spence1872–1873Individual Tree PersonParents: Peter Spence & Janet PurdieScore: B
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ASAdam Spence1590–1670Individual Tree PersonParents: Sir (Spens) & Agnes DurieScore: BASAdam Spence1590–1670Individual Tree PersonParents: Sir (Spens) & Agnes DurieScore: B
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ASAgnes Spence1751–1752Individual Tree PersonParents: David Spence & Janet SpenceScore: BASAgnes Spence1751–1752Individual Tree PersonParents: David Spence & Janet SpenceScore: B
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ASAdam Spence1590–1670Individual Tree PersonParents: Sir III & Janett IIIScore: BASAdam Spence1590–1670Individual Tree PersonParents: Sir III & Janett IIIScore: B
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ASAgnes Spence1843–1889Individual Tree PersonParents: James SpenceSpouse: William SimpsonChildren: Agnes, Isabella, William, James, Andrew, Jeannie, Mary, CharlesScore: BASAgnes Spence1843–1889Individual Tree PersonParents: James SpenceSpouse: William SimpsonChildren: Agnes, Isabella, William, James, Andrew, Jeannie, Mary, CharlesScore: B
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ASAgnes Spence1654–1704Individual Tree PersonParents: Thomas Spence & Rachel SandilandsSpouse: James BiggarChildren: Janet, Elizabeth, AlexanderScore: BASAgnes Spence1654–1704Individual Tree PersonParents: Thomas Spence & Rachel SandilandsSpouse: James BiggarChildren: Janet, Elizabeth, AlexanderScore: B
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ASAda Spence1881–1931Individual Tree PersonParents: John Spence & Hannah DibdenScore: BASAda Spence1881–1931Individual Tree PersonParents: John Spence & Hannah DibdenScore: B
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ASAgnes Spence1654–1704Individual Tree PersonParents: Thomas Spence & Rachael SandelandsScore: BASAgnes Spence1654–1704Individual Tree PersonParents: Thomas Spence & Rachael SandelandsScore: B
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ASAbner Spence1786–1865Individual Tree PersonParents: Edward Spence & Esther PearceSpouse: Nancy BurnhamChildren: MargaretScore: CASAbner Spence1786–1865Individual Tree PersonParents: Edward Spence & Esther PearceSpouse: Nancy BurnhamChildren: MargaretScore: C
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ASAdam Spence1590–1670Individual Tree PersonParents: Sir (Spens) & Agnes DurieSpouse: Maggie WestonChildren: AdamScore: CASAdam Spence1590–1670Individual Tree PersonParents: Sir (Spens) & Agnes DurieSpouse: Maggie WestonChildren: AdamScore: C
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ASAgnes Spence1654–1704Individual Tree PersonParents: James Spence & Rachell SANDELANDSScore: CASAgnes Spence1654–1704Individual Tree PersonParents: James Spence & Rachell SANDELANDSScore: C
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ASAgnes Spence1654–1704Individual Tree PersonParents: Thomas Spence & Rachel SandelandsSpouse: James BiggarChildren: JennetScore: CASAgnes Spence1654–1704Individual Tree PersonParents: Thomas Spence & Rachel SandelandsSpouse: James BiggarChildren: JennetScore: C
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ASAgnes Spence1654–1704Individual Tree PersonParents: Thomas Spence & Rachel SpenceSpouse: Herbert BiggarChildren: JanetScore: CASAgnes Spence1654–1704Individual Tree PersonParents: Thomas Spence & Rachel SpenceSpouse: Herbert BiggarChildren: JanetScore: C
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ASAdam Spence1590–1670Individual Tree PersonParents: Sir (Spens) & Agnes DurieSpouse: Maggie WestonChildren: GeorgeScore: CASAdam Spence1590–1670Individual Tree PersonParents: Sir (Spens) & Agnes DurieSpouse: Maggie WestonChildren: GeorgeScore: C
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Origin of the Spence Family: Where does the Spence surname come from?
The Spence surname first appears in historical records during a significant period in Scotland, marking the beginning of its genealogical journey. This early mention connects the Spence family to the roots of Scottish heritage, laying the groundwork for family trees that would branch out over the centuries. As families began to form and flourish, the Spence name became a symbol of their legacy in the regions they inhabited.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Spence
Throughout the early centuries, the Spence family saw a notable presence primarily in Scotland, where branches of the family tree began to establish themselves. During the 15th century, the surname gained traction, with families expanding into various regions of Scotland, contributing to the rich tapestry of local history. By the 17th century, the Spence lineage had further developed, with ancestral lines becoming more distinct as they navigated socio-political changes in their homeland.
The 18th century marked a period of notable growth for the Spence family, as many members ventured into new territories, creating diverse branches of their family trees. This era of exploration and migration led to the establishment of Spence families in various parts of the United Kingdom and beyond. The families not only retained their Scottish identity but also adapted to their new environments, further enriching the Spence genealogical narrative.
Tracing the Spence Family Tree Through the Centuries
As time progressed, the Spence surname began to expand beyond Scotland, making its way into England and France during the late medieval period. In the 18th century, the family's migration continued, with many Spences crossing the Atlantic and settling in the United States, where they established significant roots. This movement not only broadened the geographical distribution of the surname but also contributed to a dynamic evolution of the Spence family tree across multiple continents.
By the 19th century, the Spence name had become well-established in the United States, with numerous families contributing to the growing American landscape. The 20th century saw a further spread of the surname as families continued to migrate and settle in diverse regions, adapting to the changing times while maintaining their ancestral connections. This global journey of the Spence family illustrates the resilience and adaptability of their lineage throughout history.
Where to Find Spence Genealogy Records Today
In modern times, the Spence surname can be found in various countries, reflecting its rich history and widespread presence. The 21st century continues to show the Spence family’s global footprint, with many descendants actively seeking to connect with their roots. Readers interested in exploring their own Spence genealogy are encouraged to delve into the YourRoots database, which offers a
Famous People with Spence (and Their Family Tree)
Jordan Spence
Jordan James Spence, born on 24 May 1990, is a former English professional footballer renowned for his defensive prowess, primarily as a right-back and occasionally as a centre-back. Spence's career highlights include starting at West Ham United in 2004, where he made his first-team debut in 2010. He later played for several clubs, including Milton Keynes Dons, Ipswich Town, and ADO Den Haag, with notable performances in the Eredivisie. Spence also represented and captained England at various youth levels, demonstrating his leadership and skill on the international stage.
Djed Spence
Djed Spence, born on 9 August 2000, is an English professional footballer known for his dynamic role as a full-back at Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League. Spence has demonstrated versatility, excelling as both a right-back and left-back. His career highlights include winning the EFL Young Player of the Month twice, a testament to his impact on the field. Spence played a crucial role in Nottingham Forest's promotion, earning spots in the EFL Championship Team of the Season and PFA Championship Team of the Season. His impressive performances extend internationally, having been called up to the England Under-21 squad in 2022.
Spence was born in England to parents of Jamaican descent and is the younger brother of actress Karla-Simone Spence.
Bruce Spence
Bruce Robert Spence, born on 17 September 1945, is a renowned New Zealand-born Australian actor celebrated for his extensive career spanning over 100 film and television credits. His iconic roles include the gyrocopter pilot in "Mad Max 2" and Jedediah the pilot in "Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome." Spence's versatility is showcased in films such as "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" as the Mouth of Sauron, and "Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith" as Tion Medon. Notably, he won an AFI Award for Best Actor in "Stork" (1971) and was honored with the Equity Lifetime Achievement award in 2024.
Louie Spence
Louie Spence, born on 6 April 1969, is a renowned English dancer, choreographer, and television presenter, famously recognized for his work on "Pineapple Dance Studios." As a professional dancer, he graced the West End stage in productions like "Miss Saigon," "Cats," and "Closer to Heaven." Spence's television career includes roles as a judge on "Cirque de Celebrité" and "Dancing on Ice," as well as participations in "Celebrity Big Brother" and "The Jump." His autobiography, "Still Got It, Never Lost It!" reflects his vibrant journey in entertainment.
Willie Spence
Willie Spence was an American singer born on June 18, 1999, in West Palm Beach, Florida, and he gained fame as the runner-up on the nineteenth season of American Idol. Known for his powerful voice, Spence captured attention with a viral cover of Rihanna's "Diamonds," amassing over 38 million views on YouTube. His journey on American Idol at age 21 and his memorable performances solidified his place in the music world, garnering admiration from both judges and fans alike.
Spence Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Spence" is associated with a variety of notable individuals across different fields, including politics, sports, and the arts. It appears to have roots in both the British Isles and North America, with prominent figures such as British architect Basil Spence and American politician Brent Spence highlighting its diverse geographical connections.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Spence
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 Spence family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Spence surname to learn more.
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