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Upham Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Upham Surname

The Upham surname has its origins in England, emerging in the early 15th century. It is a toponymic surname, likely derived from various villages named Upham, which means "upper homestead" in Old English. This surname marks a significant identity for those tracing their family history, as it indicates a lineage connected to specific geographical roots in the English landscape.

As time progressed, the Upham surname evolved and spread beyond its English origins. By the late 17th century, Upham families had migrated to North America, where they established significant presences, notably in regions like New England. Notable individuals with the Upham surname, such as Charles Upham, a decorated New Zealand soldier, and William H. Upham, a governor of Wisconsin, highlight the surname's spread and influence across different continents and sectors.

YourRoots data provides valuable insights into the Upham genealogy, confirming the surname's presence in England since the 15th century. The data aligns with historical records that document the Upham family's expansion throughout rural England and later across the Atlantic. This lineage expansion is further evidenced by the proliferation of the Upham name in North America, where families established new branches and diversified their heritage.

Today, Upham genealogy records, enriched by YourRoots, offer a comprehensive look into the global distribution of the name. With connections traced back to both English origins and key North American developments, the Upham family tree serves as a significant resource for those interested in exploring their ancestral roots and uncovering familial connections across time and geography.

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Tracing Your Upham Family Lineage

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

The Upham surname first emerged in England during the early 15th century, marking the beginnings of a family lineage that would branch out over the centuries. This early appearance in historical records serves as a vital point in understanding the genealogical origins of the Upham family. As families began to establish their roots, the name Upham became a marker of identity and heritage in the region.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Upham

In subsequent centuries, the Upham family began to spread throughout various regions in England, establishing lines that would contribute to the family's genealogy. Key areas where Upham families are noted include rural regions and emerging towns, where they laid the foundations for their descendants. These families not only expanded their branches but also contributed to the growing tapestry of English history during this time.

Tracing the Upham Family Tree Through the Centuries

The evolution of the Upham surname continued as families migrated and established themselves across borders, particularly in the United States by the late 17th century. This movement led to a significant presence of the Upham name in North America, where families grew and diversified their ties. By the 19th century, the Upham name had further expanded, reflecting a broader trend of migration and family growth across continents.

Where to Find Upham Genealogy Records Today

In modern centuries, the Upham surname has seen a global distribution, with families tracing their roots in various regions around the world. Significant concentrations of Upham descendants can be found in North America, as well as continuing links to their English origins. Readers interested in exploring their own family history are encouraged to delve into the Upham genealogy records available in the YourRoots database to uncover connections to their family tree.

Famous People with Upham (and Their Family Tree)

Charles Upham

Captain Charles Hazlitt Upham was a distinguished New Zealand soldier renowned for his exceptional bravery during World War II. Born in Christchurch, he was twice awarded the Victoria Cross for his valor in the Battle of Crete and the First Battle of El Alamein. Upham's military career was marked by his leadership and courage under fire, making him the only combatant to receive two Victoria Crosses. Beyond his military achievements, he worked as a sheep farmer, a manager, and with the Government Valuation Department, before dedicating his post-war life to farming and veterans' affairs. His legacy is celebrated for both his wartime heroics and his commitment to family and community.

Charles Upham was born to John Hazlitt Upham, a lawyer, and Agatha Mary Coates in Christchurch. His lineage includes artist John Hazlitt and pioneer colonist Guise Brittan, reflecting a rich family heritage. Upham's childhood was characterized by his quiet demeanor and intellectual curiosity, which later guided him towards an agricultural career, much to his father's initial disappointment. His education at Christ's College and Canterbury Agricultural College laid the foundation for his successful career in agriculture.

Misty Upham

Misty Anne Upham was a critically acclaimed Blackfeet actress known for her roles in films like "Frozen River," "Jimmy P: Psychotherapy of a Plains Indian," and "August: Osage County." Born on July 6, 1982, in Kalispell, Montana, and raised in Auburn, Washington, Upham was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Female for her performance in "Frozen River." Her career also included appearances in HBO's "Big Love" and the film "Cake." Upham's impactful work continues to inspire, with The Misty Upham Award for Young Native Actors established in her honor to uplift emerging Native talent.

William H. Upham

William Henry Upham was a prominent American businessman and politician, known as the 18th governor of Wisconsin and the mayor of Marshfield. Upham's career was marked by his early military service during the Civil War, where he was captured and held at Libby Prison. He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point and later became a successful entrepreneur in the lumber industry, founding the Upham Manufacturing Company. Upham's leadership helped rebuild Marshfield after a devastating fire in 1887, underscoring his commitment to community and economic development. He was a member of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States, highlighting his continued connection to his military roots.

William H. Upham was the youngest son of Alvin Upham and Sarah Derby, with his family lineage tracing back to Jonathan Upham, a Revolutionary War soldier at Yorktown. The Upham family descended from John Upham, an English colonist who arrived in the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1635, becoming one of the first settlers of Weymouth, Massachusetts. This rich heritage underscored Upham's deep American roots and connection to significant historical events.

Samuel C. Upham

Samuel Curtis Upham (1819-1885) was a multifaceted American figure known for his roles as a journalist, lyricist, merchant, navy officer, prospector, and counterfeiter. Upham gained notoriety during the Civil War by creating and selling counterfeit Confederate currency, which he marketed as "mementos of the Rebellion." His actions reportedly destabilized the Confederate economy, leading to a $10,000 bounty on his capture. Upham's adventures also include founding California's first daily newspaper outside San Francisco and writing about his voyage to California during the Gold Rush.

Born in Montpelier, Vermont, Samuel C. Upham was the son of Samuel Upham and Sally Hatch, a devout Methodist farm couple. After leaving home at 20, he embarked on a diverse career path, eventually settling in Philadelphia with his wife, Anne Bancroft, where they raised two sons.

Daniel Phillips Upham

Daniel Phillips Upham, also known as D.P. Upham, was a prominent American politician, businessman, and Arkansas State Militia commander renowned for his decisive actions during the post-Civil War Reconstruction era. Upham is best known for leading a successful militia campaign against the Ku Klux Klan in Arkansas from 1868 to 1869, effectively quelling Klan violence and securing Republican control. As a Radical Republican ally of Governor Powell Clayton, Upham played a crucial role in ratifying the 14th Amendment and maintaining order in the turbulent Reconstruction South, particularly in the Arkansas Delta region.

Daniel Phillips Upham was born on December 30, 1832, in Dudley, Massachusetts, to Josiah Upham and Clarrissa Phillips. Clarrissa was a descendant of Rev. George Phillips, a pioneer who settled in Watertown, Massachusetts, in 1630. Tragically, Clarrissa died shortly after his birth, and Josiah later remarried Betsy Larned, with whom he had four more sons. Upham's family background connected him to early American settlers, reflecting a deep-rooted heritage. He married Elizabeth K. Nash in 1860, and they adopted a daughter, Isabel.

Upham Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Upham" has been associated with various notable individuals primarily from the United States, Canada, and New Zealand, spanning fields such as politics, military, academia, and the arts. The name has historical roots with figures active from the 18th century onwards, including U.S. Representatives, military personnel, and academics, reflecting a legacy of public service and leadership.

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Upham

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