Sign up to explore more
Create a free account to navigate family trees, view ancestors, and discover connections.
Sign up free
Sign up to explore more
Create a free account to navigate family trees, view ancestors, and discover connections.
Sign up freeWhitaker Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Whitaker Surname
Whitaker is a surname of English and Scottish origin, meaning "the white acre." Variants include "Whittaker" and "Whitacre," reflecting its roots in the British Isles. The surname's evolution is tied to its geographic and cultural backdrop, marking a significant moment in family history as it emerged in historical documents.
The Whitaker surname began its expansion primarily in England, with various branches establishing themselves across the country. By the 18th century, many Whitakers had migrated to the United States, contributing to the name's spread. This movement illustrates the dynamic nature of the Whitaker family tree, as branches extended beyond their English origins.
YourRoots data confirms the Whitaker surname's early presence in England, aligning with historical records that mark its foundational role in British genealogy. The data highlights the surname's growth over the centuries, emphasizing its prominence in key regions and its eventual migration to North America.
Today, Whitaker genealogy records reveal a broad global distribution, with YourRoots providing valuable insights into the family's historical journey. These records serve as an essential resource for researchers exploring the Whitaker family tree, offering a comprehensive view of the surname's enduring legacy.
Find the Whitaker Family Tree
Search more Whitaker trees & genealogy records
Records
-
JWJoshua Whitaker1769–1856Public Tree Person3 treesScore: AJWJoshua Whitaker1769–1856Public Tree Person3 treesScore: A
-
EWElizabeth Whitaker1799–1840Public Tree PersonParents: Joshua Whitaker & Nancy Childers3 treesScore: AEWElizabeth Whitaker1799–1840Public Tree PersonParents: Joshua Whitaker & Nancy Childers3 treesScore: A
-
PWPhiny Herbert Whitaker1872–1938Public Tree PersonParents: Margaret Dunn3 treesScore: APWPhiny Herbert Whitaker1872–1938Public Tree PersonParents: Margaret Dunn3 treesScore: A
-
MWMary WHITAKER1793–1884Public Tree PersonParents: Joshua Whitaker & Nancy Childers3 treesScore: AMWMary WHITAKER1793–1884Public Tree PersonParents: Joshua Whitaker & Nancy Childers3 treesScore: A
-
JWJane Whitaker1745–1811Public Tree Person7 treesScore: BJWJane Whitaker1745–1811Public Tree Person7 treesScore: B
-
HWHannah Lyon Whitaker1729–1786Public Tree Person7 treesScore: BHWHannah Lyon Whitaker1729–1786Public Tree Person7 treesScore: B
-
NWNathaniel Whitaker1661–1703Public Tree Person5 treesScore: BNWNathaniel Whitaker1661–1703Public Tree Person5 treesScore: B
-
RWRuth Whitaker1690–1713Public Tree Person4 treesScore: BRWRuth Whitaker1690–1713Public Tree Person4 treesScore: B
-
JWJoshua Whitaker1675–1719Public Tree Person3 treesScore: BJWJoshua Whitaker1675–1719Public Tree Person3 treesScore: B
-
JWJoshua Whitaker1769–1856Public Tree Person3 treesScore: BJWJoshua Whitaker1769–1856Public Tree Person3 treesScore: B
-
RWRuth Whitaker1690–1713Public Tree Person3 treesScore: BRWRuth Whitaker1690–1713Public Tree Person3 treesScore: B
-
WWWillis Dunn Whitaker1879–1963Public Tree PersonParents: Margaret Dunn3 treesScore: BWWWillis Dunn Whitaker1879–1963Public Tree PersonParents: Margaret Dunn3 treesScore: B
-
LWLeah Edna Whitaker1884–1944Public Tree PersonParents: Margaret Dunn3 treesScore: BLWLeah Edna Whitaker1884–1944Public Tree PersonParents: Margaret Dunn3 treesScore: B
-
PWPeter Whitaker1733–1815Public Tree Person3 treesScore: BPWPeter Whitaker1733–1815Public Tree Person3 treesScore: B
-
EWElizabeth Whitaker1687–1758Public Tree Person3 treesScore: BEWElizabeth Whitaker1687–1758Public Tree Person3 treesScore: B
-
JWJames Whitaker1601–1635Public Tree Person4 treesScore: CJWJames Whitaker1601–1635Public Tree Person4 treesScore: C
-
JWJohn Whitaker1651–1728Public Tree Person3 treesScore: CJWJohn Whitaker1651–1728Public Tree Person3 treesScore: C
-
AWAbigail WHITAKER1696–1767Individual Tree PersonParents: Jacob WHITAKER & Mary WEBSTERSpouse: François DOYENChildren: Mary, FRANCIS, JacobScore: AAWAbigail WHITAKER1696–1767Individual Tree PersonParents: Jacob WHITAKER & Mary WEBSTERSpouse: François DOYENChildren: Mary, FRANCIS, JacobScore: A
-
AWAaron Whitaker1929–1979Individual Tree PersonParents: Carey Whitaker & Pennie BattleScore: AAWAaron Whitaker1929–1979Individual Tree PersonParents: Carey Whitaker & Pennie BattleScore: A
-
AWAbby Lee Whitaker1878–1968Individual Tree PersonParents: 2nd Whitaker & Nancy WhitekerSpouse: Allen HollandChildren: Hattie, Infant, BabScore: AAWAbby Lee Whitaker1878–1968Individual Tree PersonParents: 2nd Whitaker & Nancy WhitekerSpouse: Allen HollandChildren: Hattie, Infant, BabScore: A
-
AWAaron Whitaker1640–1713Individual Tree PersonParents: William Whitaker & Mary CammSpouse: Catherine GoughChildren: JohnScore: AAWAaron Whitaker1640–1713Individual Tree PersonParents: William Whitaker & Mary CammSpouse: Catherine GoughChildren: JohnScore: A
-
AWAaron John Whitaker1640–1713Individual Tree PersonParents: William Whitaker & Mary CammScore: BAWAaron John Whitaker1640–1713Individual Tree PersonParents: William Whitaker & Mary CammScore: B
-
AWAaron David Whitaker1910–1975Individual Tree PersonParents: David Whitaker & Mattie WilliamsScore: BAWAaron David Whitaker1910–1975Individual Tree PersonParents: David Whitaker & Mattie WilliamsScore: B
-
AWAaron Whitaker1792–1865Individual Tree PersonParents: Joseph Whittiker & Zobedia PerdewScore: BAWAaron Whitaker1792–1865Individual Tree PersonParents: Joseph Whittiker & Zobedia PerdewScore: B
-
AWAbner Newton Whitaker1809–1879Individual Tree PersonParents: John Whitaker & Dorothy FaySpouse: Jerusha Titus, Fenetta Gould, Mandana TitusChildren: John, Lilla, Ella, Nettie, George, Gardner, Abner, Byron, Lucy, EdgarScore: BAWAbner Newton Whitaker1809–1879Individual Tree PersonParents: John Whitaker & Dorothy FaySpouse: Jerusha Titus, Fenetta Gould, Mandana TitusChildren: John, Lilla, Ella, Nettie, George, Gardner, Abner, Byron, Lucy, EdgarScore: B
-
AWAbigail (Ephraim) Whitaker1818–1880Individual Tree PersonParents: Ephraim Whitaker & Abigail DavisScore: BAWAbigail (Ephraim) Whitaker1818–1880Individual Tree PersonParents: Ephraim Whitaker & Abigail DavisScore: B
-
AWAbel Whitaker1856–1919Individual Tree PersonParents: Calvin Whitaker & Pheby HeltScore: BAWAbel Whitaker1856–1919Individual Tree PersonParents: Calvin Whitaker & Pheby HeltScore: B
-
AWAaron Whitaker1914–1993Individual Tree PersonParents: Roy Whittaker & Nancy CaudillScore: BAWAaron Whitaker1914–1993Individual Tree PersonParents: Roy Whittaker & Nancy CaudillScore: B
-
AWAaron Whitaker1785–1860Individual Tree PersonParents: Richard Jr.Score: BAWAaron Whitaker1785–1860Individual Tree PersonParents: Richard Jr.Score: B
-
AWAaron Whitaker1640–1713Individual Tree PersonParents: Lt (Whittekers) & Lady BourchierSpouse: Ann GoughChildren: John, Sarah, Hannah, Peter, Charles, Ruth, Elizabeth, Joseph, John, Isaac, AbrahamScore: BAWAaron Whitaker1640–1713Individual Tree PersonParents: Lt (Whittekers) & Lady BourchierSpouse: Ann GoughChildren: John, Sarah, Hannah, Peter, Charles, Ruth, Elizabeth, Joseph, John, Isaac, AbrahamScore: B
-
AWAaron Whitaker1783–1865Individual Tree PersonParents: Richard Whitaker & Rachel BentleyScore: BAWAaron Whitaker1783–1865Individual Tree PersonParents: Richard Whitaker & Rachel BentleyScore: B
-
AWAbigail Whitaker1704–1749Individual Tree PersonParents: John Whittaker & Mehitable PeckScore: BAWAbigail Whitaker1704–1749Individual Tree PersonParents: John Whittaker & Mehitable PeckScore: B
-
AWAbner Gould Whitaker1842–1913Individual Tree PersonParents: Abner Whitaker & Mandana TitusScore: BAWAbner Gould Whitaker1842–1913Individual Tree PersonParents: Abner Whitaker & Mandana TitusScore: B
-
AWAaron Whitaker1640–1713Individual Tree PersonParents: Jabez Whittekers & Lady BourchierChildren: JosephScore: BAWAaron Whitaker1640–1713Individual Tree PersonParents: Jabez Whittekers & Lady BourchierChildren: JosephScore: B
-
AWAbigail Whitaker1789–1857Individual Tree PersonParents: Jonathan Whitacre & MARY MITCHELLScore: CAWAbigail Whitaker1789–1857Individual Tree PersonParents: Jonathan Whitacre & MARY MITCHELLScore: C
Search more trees & records for
Whitaker for free
SIGNUP
Tracing Your Whitaker Family Lineage
Origin of the Whitaker Family: Where does the Whitaker surname come from?
The Whitaker surname has its earliest known appearance in England, marking a significant moment in genealogical history. This early record connects the family to the roots of its lineage, suggesting a foundational presence in the British Isles. As the surname emerges in historical documents, it signifies the beginnings of what would evolve into a widespread family network.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Whitaker
Throughout the early centuries, the Whitaker family began to establish itself primarily within England. Key regions in England became home to numerous Whitaker family branches, showcasing the surname's growth and the formation of distinct family lines. As each generation passed, these families expanded their family trees, creating a tapestry of connections that would span across the ages.
During subsequent centuries, the Whitaker family continued to flourish, with records indicating a notable increase in the surname's prevalence. This period of growth allowed for the flourishing of various family branches, each contributing to the rich history and genealogy of the Whitaker name. The evolution of these family trees reflects the dynamic nature of lineage and heritage.
Tracing the Whitaker Family Tree Through the Centuries
The expansion of the Whitaker surname became increasingly evident as families migrated beyond England in later centuries. By the 18th century, significant numbers of Whitakers had settled in the United States, marking a pivotal moment in the surname's global spread. This migration led to a flourishing of family lines across multiple regions, including North America and other parts of the world, further enriching the Whitaker family history.
In the 19th century, the surname solidified its presence in the United States, with an impressive growth in the number of Whitaker families. The 20th century saw continued expansion, with Whitaker descendants establishing roots in diverse environments across the globe. This migration pattern illustrates a broader narrative of family evolution and the interconnectedness of Whitaker branches worldwide.
Where to Find Whitaker Genealogy Records Today
In modern times, the Whitaker surname has a robust presence, particularly noticeable in the 20th and 21st centuries. As families continue to explore their genealogical roots, the Whitaker name can be found in various regions across the globe, reflecting a rich heritage. Readers are encouraged to delve into the YourRoots database to uncover their connections to the Whitaker family tree and explore the vast history associated with this enduring surname.
Famous People with Whitaker (and Their Family Tree)
Forest Whitaker
Forest Steven Whitaker, born July 15, 1961, in Longview, Texas, is a distinguished American actor, filmmaker, and activist. Known for his intensive character studies, Whitaker has appeared in acclaimed films like "Platoon," "The Crying Game," "The Butler," and "Black Panther." His portrayal of Idi Amin in "The Last King of Scotland" earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor. Besides acting, Whitaker has directed films such as "Waiting to Exhale." He is also a humanitarian, serving as CEO of the Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative and a UNESCO Special Envoy for Peace and Reconciliation.
Whitaker was born to Laura Francis, a special education teacher with Akan ancestry, and Forest E. Whitaker Jr., an insurance salesman of Igbo descent. Raised in Carson, California, he has two younger brothers and an older sister. Whitaker's educational journey included studies in music and drama, culminating in a BFA in acting from the University of Southern California.
Johnny Whitaker
Johnny Whitaker, born on December 13, 1959, is a renowned American actor known for his notable performances as a child star. He played Jody Davis in the beloved TV series "Family Affair" from 1966 to 1971 and originated the role of Scotty Baldwin on "General Hospital" in 1965. Whitaker starred in "The Littlest Angel" and portrayed Tom Sawyer in the 1973 musical adaptation. His career includes roles in "Sigmund and the Sea Monsters" and films like "Snowball Express" and "Napoleon and Samantha." In recognition of his achievements, he received the Young Artist Former Child Star Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999.
Johnny Whitaker was born in Van Nuys, Los Angeles, as the fifth of eight children to Thelma and John O. Whitaker, Sr.
Whitaker Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Whitaker," also spelled "Whittaker" or "Whitacre," originates from England and Scotland and means "the white acre." It has been carried by notable figures across various fields, including the Whitaker iron family, prominent in the American iron and steel industry during the 19th and 20th centuries, and individuals like Forest Whitaker, the American actor.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Whitaker
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 Whitaker family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Whitaker surname to learn more.
VIEW MOREAbout YourRoots
Explore your family tree geographically
Import your GEDCOM file to transform your family tree into an interactive global map. See your roots laid out visually and understand your true geographic heritage.
Powerful tools like "Trace Back To Me" instantly map your family's migration paths from a chosen ancestor all the way back to you.
Discover ancestors beyond "end-of-line" automatically
Import your family tree and let AI expand it for you. AI Ancestor Finder scans "end-of-line" ancestors to uncover their parents across hundreds of family lines at once. AI Deep Research analyzes selected ancestors and family clusters, suggesting relevant records and next steps.
Turn on Auto Research Mode to get new discoveries daily or weekly, so your tree keeps growing even while you're away.
Find more DNA matches across all DNA tests
Combine your DNA data with your family tree to unlock the full power of YourRoots DNA Match. Connect with relatives across major testing services — Ancestry, 23andMe, MyHeritage, and more.
View your matches' maps and trees to identify shared ancestors, and soon you'll be able to add them directly to your own tree and map.
Ancestry DNA analysis that goes deeper than others
Unlock exclusive reports that reveal your deeper origins.
- Deep Ancestry Report — Analyze 130+ ethnicities, sub-regions, and 1,800+ communities in one detailed view.
- Global & Native American Reports — Developed with Stanford researchers to uncover hidden ancestries across all 22 chromosomes.
- Ancient DNA Series — Compare your DNA with 1,000+ ancient genomes from Viking, Celtic, and early American civilizations.
Sign up to explore more
Create a free account to navigate family trees, view ancestors, and discover connections.
Sign up freeAlready have an account? Log in
Coming Soon
We're actively working on many new features for YourRoots. Features marked v2 are ones we're planning to launch soon.
Have a particular feature request? Let us know below!