Tefft Family Genealogy & History

John F. Tefft, born on August 16, 1949, in Madison, Wisconsin, is a distinguished American diplomat and career Foreign Service Officer since 1972. He served as the United States Ambassador to Russia from 2014 to 2017, amid strained U.S.-Russia relations. Tefft's notable roles include U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, Georgia, and Lithuania, and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European Affairs. His career spanned key postings in cities like Moscow, Kyiv, and Rome. John Tefft earned significant recognition, receiving awards such as the State Department Distinguished Honor Award in 1992 and Presidential Meritorious Service Awards in 2001 and 2005.

Thomas Alexander Tefft was a pioneering American architect from Providence, Rhode Island, renowned for his mastery of Rundbogenstil. As one of the first professionally trained architects in the U.S., Tefft significantly influenced American architecture by offering advanced designs. His career highlights include notable works with Tallman and Bucklin, such as Butler Hospital and the Providence Union Station, as well as his private practice contributions like the New England Screw Co. Tefft was also among the first fellows of the American Institute of Architects, reflecting his prominent status in the field.

Thomas Alexander Tefft was born on August 2, 1826, in Richmond, Rhode Island, to William C. and Sarah Tefft. He was the fourth child in his family, who were members of the Richmond Six-Principle Baptist Church. Tefft's upbringing in a rural environment and his early health challenges led to his appreciation of books and learning, shaping his future career in architecture.

Charles Eugene Tefft, born on September 22, 1874, in Brewer, Maine, was a renowned American sculptor celebrated for his significant contributions to public art. Tefft's most notable works include the statues of Hannibal Hamlin, prominently displayed in both the National Statuary Hall Collection at the U.S. Capitol and Norumbega Mall in Bangor, Maine. He studied under Frederick Ruckstull and worked with John Quincy Adams Ward, later establishing his studios in Tompkinsville, New York, and Guilford, Maine. His architectural sculptures, such as the figure "Renaissance Art" for the Saint Louis Art Museum, and his role as director of sculpture for the 1926 Sesquicentennial Exposition in Philadelphia, underscore his influential career.

Benjamin Franklin Tefft (1813–1885) was a prominent American Methodist minister, author, newspaper editor, and diplomat. He served as the U.S. Consul in Stockholm during the Civil War, where he played a key role in encouraging Swedish emigration to the United States, particularly to Maine. His efforts led to the establishment of Swedish communities such as New Sweden and Stockholm, Maine. Tefft was also a professor at DePauw University and president of Genesee College. Additionally, he authored several books, including "Prison Life" and "Evolution and Christianity." His contributions to immigration and literature mark him as a significant figure in 19th-century American history.