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 freeWightman Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Wightman Surname
The Wightman surname has its roots in England, first appearing in genealogical records during the early 15th century. The name is thought to have originated from the Old English, reflecting either a geographical or occupational connection. As a surname, Wightman has evolved over centuries, marking its bearers as significant contributors to historical and social developments within their communities.
Over time, the Wightman family tree expanded beyond its English origins. The surname spread significantly during the 17th century as families migrated to the United States, establishing branches in diverse regions. This expansion was mirrored by the emergence of notable individuals bearing the Wightman name, such as Edward Wightman, the last person to be executed for heresy in England, and Hazel Hotchkiss Wightman, an influential American tennis player. These historical figures illustrate the cultural and geographical impact of the Wightman name.
YourRoots data complements this historical narrative by confirming the early presence of the Wightman surname in England from the 15th century. The records trace the surname's spread through Britain and its establishment in North America by the 17th century. This aligns with the broader historical trends of migration and settlement, providing a clear picture of the Wightman family's growth and adaptation over time. For those exploring Wightman genealogy, YourRoots offers valuable insights and connections to the rich tapestry of this family's history.
Today, Wightman records highlight a global presence, showcasing the enduring legacy of the surname across continents. YourRoots data reveals a wealth of information for genealogy enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive view of the Wightman family tree and its historical journey. This fusion of historical and modern records enriches the understanding of the Wightman lineage, making it an intriguing subject for family history researchers.
Find the Wightman Family Tree
Search more Wightman trees & genealogy records
Records
-
RWRosiebell (Roseabell) WightmanBirth: 1921 – 1998 CanadaDeath: 1921 – 1998 London, Middlesex County, Ontario, CanadaFather: Jacob WightmanMother: Florence Ester BarrettReliability Score: BRWRosiebell (Roseabell) WightmanBirth: 1921 – 1998 CanadaDeath: 1921 – 1998 London, Middlesex County, Ontario, CanadaFather: Jacob WightmanMother: Florence Ester BarrettReliability Score: B
-
IWIsabella WightmanBirth: 1820 – 1905 Dumfries, ScotlandDeath: 1820 – 1905 Lancashire, EnglandFather: David CostineMother: Jean EdgarReliability Score: N/AIWIsabella WightmanBirth: 1820 – 1905 Dumfries, ScotlandDeath: 1820 – 1905 Lancashire, EnglandFather: David CostineMother: Jean EdgarReliability Score: N/A
-
IWIsabella Jane WightmanBirth: 1880 – 1880 Parish of Kingston, JamaicaDeath: 1880 – 1880 JamaicaFather: William WightmanMother: Jane Elizabeth BrownReliability Score: N/AIWIsabella Jane WightmanBirth: 1880 – 1880 Parish of Kingston, JamaicaDeath: 1880 – 1880 JamaicaFather: William WightmanMother: Jane Elizabeth BrownReliability Score: N/A
-
IWIsabella WightmanBirth: 1820 – 1905 Dumfries-shire, ScotlandDeath: 1820 – 1905 Lambeth LondonFather: David CostineMother: Jean EdgarReliability Score: BIWIsabella WightmanBirth: 1820 – 1905 Dumfries-shire, ScotlandDeath: 1820 – 1905 Lambeth LondonFather: David CostineMother: Jean EdgarReliability Score: B
-
JWJohn WightmanBirth: 1598 – 1663 Burton upon Trent, East Staffordshire Borough, Staffordshire, EnglandDeath: 1598 – 1663 Wickford, Washington County, Rhode Island, United States of AmericaFather: Edward The Heretic Whitman (Wightman)Mother: Frances DarbyReliability Score: AJWJohn WightmanBirth: 1598 – 1663 Burton upon Trent, East Staffordshire Borough, Staffordshire, EnglandDeath: 1598 – 1663 Wickford, Washington County, Rhode Island, United States of AmericaFather: Edward The Heretic Whitman (Wightman)Mother: Frances DarbyReliability Score: A
-
AWAndrew Costine George WightmanBirth: 1897 – 1952 Crossroads, Saint Andrew, JamaicaDeath: 1897 – 1952 Barranquilla, Atlantico, ColombiaFather: William George W. WightmanMother: Semiramis Isabelle "Bluebell?" Pillon\PelonReliability Score: CAWAndrew Costine George WightmanBirth: 1897 – 1952 Crossroads, Saint Andrew, JamaicaDeath: 1897 – 1952 Barranquilla, Atlantico, ColombiaFather: William George W. WightmanMother: Semiramis Isabelle "Bluebell?" Pillon\PelonReliability Score: C
-
AWAudrey Deering WightmanBirth: 1530 – 1596 Harrow On Hill,Middlesex,EnglandDeath: 1530 – 1596 Coventry, London, EnglandFather: Sir John Henry Ernest Moore Dering Deering,Mother: Margaret Brent (12gg)Reliability Score: CAWAudrey Deering WightmanBirth: 1530 – 1596 Harrow On Hill,Middlesex,EnglandDeath: 1530 – 1596 Coventry, London, EnglandFather: Sir John Henry Ernest Moore Dering Deering,Mother: Margaret Brent (12gg)Reliability Score: C
-
JWJohn WightmanBirth: 1536 – 1580 Burbage, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough, Leicestershire, EnglandDeath: 1536 – 1580 Hinckley, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough, Leicestershire, EnglandFather: William WightmanMother: Lady Etheldreda DeringReliability Score: AJWJohn WightmanBirth: 1536 – 1580 Burbage, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough, Leicestershire, EnglandDeath: 1536 – 1580 Hinckley, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough, Leicestershire, EnglandFather: William WightmanMother: Lady Etheldreda DeringReliability Score: A
-
HWHarold Cecil WightmanBirth: 1939 – 2008 Petrolia, Lambton, Ontario, CanadaDeath: 1939 – 2008 Leamington, Essex, Ontario, CanadaFather: Jacob WightmanMother: Florence Ester BarrettReliability Score: BHWHarold Cecil WightmanBirth: 1939 – 2008 Petrolia, Lambton, Ontario, CanadaDeath: 1939 – 2008 Leamington, Essex, Ontario, CanadaFather: Jacob WightmanMother: Florence Ester BarrettReliability Score: B
-
BWByron Hiram WightmanBirth: 1917 – 1952 CanadaDeath: 1917 – 1952 Ontario, CanadaFather: Jacob WightmanMother: Florence Ester BarrettReliability Score: BBWByron Hiram WightmanBirth: 1917 – 1952 CanadaDeath: 1917 – 1952 Ontario, CanadaFather: Jacob WightmanMother: Florence Ester BarrettReliability Score: B
-
CWClara Constance WightmanBirth: 1856 – 1948 Hackney, Middlesex, EnglandDeath: 1856 – 1948 Brighton, Sussex, EnglandFather: Robert Jefferson WightmanMother: Isabella WightmanReliability Score: N/ACWClara Constance WightmanBirth: 1856 – 1948 Hackney, Middlesex, EnglandDeath: 1856 – 1948 Brighton, Sussex, EnglandFather: Robert Jefferson WightmanMother: Isabella WightmanReliability Score: N/A
-
EWElizabeth WightmanBirth: 1664 – 1756 Kingston, Washington, Rhode Island, United StatesDeath: 1664 – 1756 Kingston, Washington, Rhode Island, United StatesFather: George WIGHTMANMother: Elizabeth UpdykeReliability Score: CEWElizabeth WightmanBirth: 1664 – 1756 Kingston, Washington, Rhode Island, United StatesDeath: 1664 – 1756 Kingston, Washington, Rhode Island, United StatesFather: George WIGHTMANMother: Elizabeth UpdykeReliability Score: C
-
BWBert Raymond WightmanBirth: 1874 – 1907 New YorkDeath: 1874 – 1907 Redwood, Jefferson, New YorkFather: Ransford Benjamin WightmanMother: Ellen CaplesReliability Score: ABWBert Raymond WightmanBirth: 1874 – 1907 New YorkDeath: 1874 – 1907 Redwood, Jefferson, New YorkFather: Ransford Benjamin WightmanMother: Ellen CaplesReliability Score: A
-
MWMildred May WightmanBirth: 1919 – 1995 CanadaDeath: 1919 – 1995 Chatham, Kent County, Ontario, CanadaFather: Jacob WightmanMother: Florence Ester BarrettReliability Score: BMWMildred May WightmanBirth: 1919 – 1995 CanadaDeath: 1919 – 1995 Chatham, Kent County, Ontario, CanadaFather: Jacob WightmanMother: Florence Ester BarrettReliability Score: B
-
JWJohn Robert William WightmanBirth: 1860 – 1934 16 Carlton Rd Villas, Kentish Town, London, EnglandDeath: 1860 – 1934 66a Queens Rd, Croydon, SurreyFather: Robert Jefferson WightmanMother: Isabella WightmanReliability Score: N/AJWJohn Robert William WightmanBirth: 1860 – 1934 16 Carlton Rd Villas, Kentish Town, London, EnglandDeath: 1860 – 1934 66a Queens Rd, Croydon, SurreyFather: Robert Jefferson WightmanMother: Isabella WightmanReliability Score: N/A
-
jWjeanne Costine Maria WightmanBirth: 1925 – 2003 NYC, New York, USADeath: 1925 – 2003 Los Gatos, Santa Clara, California, USAFather: Andrew Costine George WightmanMother: Hazel Inez Maria Campbell HenriquesReliability Score: BjWjeanne Costine Maria WightmanBirth: 1925 – 2003 NYC, New York, USADeath: 1925 – 2003 Los Gatos, Santa Clara, California, USAFather: Andrew Costine George WightmanMother: Hazel Inez Maria Campbell HenriquesReliability Score: B
-
MWMargaret Mc Callum WIGHTMANBirth: 1887 – 1931 Lugar Ayrshire ScotlandDeath: 1887 – 1931 Larkhall Lanarkshire ScotlandFather: John WIGHTMANMother: Mary Turner ARNOTReliability Score: CMWMargaret Mc Callum WIGHTMANBirth: 1887 – 1931 Lugar Ayrshire ScotlandDeath: 1887 – 1931 Larkhall Lanarkshire ScotlandFather: John WIGHTMANMother: Mary Turner ARNOTReliability Score: C
-
WWWilliam WightmanBirth: 1843 – 1912 12, Brunswick Street, Islington, London Borough of Islington, London, EnglandDeath: 1843 – 1912 Friendship Pen, Crossroads, Kingston, Surrey County, JamaicaFather: Robert Jefferson WightmanMother: Isabella WightmanReliability Score: CWWWilliam WightmanBirth: 1843 – 1912 12, Brunswick Street, Islington, London Borough of Islington, London, EnglandDeath: 1843 – 1912 Friendship Pen, Crossroads, Kingston, Surrey County, JamaicaFather: Robert Jefferson WightmanMother: Isabella WightmanReliability Score: C
-
MWMargaret Ruth WightmanBirth: 1933 – 2005 Ridgetown, Ontario, CanadaDeath: 1933 – 2005 Kitchener, Ontario, CanadaFather: Jacob WightmanMother: Florence Ester BarrettReliability Score: CMWMargaret Ruth WightmanBirth: 1933 – 2005 Ridgetown, Ontario, CanadaDeath: 1933 – 2005 Kitchener, Ontario, CanadaFather: Jacob WightmanMother: Florence Ester BarrettReliability Score: C
-
IWIsabella Jane WightmanBirth: 1845 – 1898 Shoreditch, Middlesex, EnglandDeath: 1845 – 1898 Hackney, London, United KingdomFather: Robert Jefferson WightmanMother: Isabella WightmanReliability Score: N/AIWIsabella Jane WightmanBirth: 1845 – 1898 Shoreditch, Middlesex, EnglandDeath: 1845 – 1898 Hackney, London, United KingdomFather: Robert Jefferson WightmanMother: Isabella WightmanReliability Score: N/A
Search more trees & records for
Wightman for free
SIGNUP
Tracing Your Wightman Family Lineage
Origin of the Wightman Family: Where does the Wightman surname come from?
The Wightman surname first appeared in genealogical records during the early 15th century, marking the beginning of its historical lineage in England. This initial documentation connects to the family's roots, suggesting a deep-seated presence in the region that would lay the foundation for future generations. The context of its emergence provides insight into the social and familial structures of that era, which would influence the Wightman family tree's evolution.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Wightman
Throughout the following centuries, the Wightman family began to spread across England, establishing branches that would lead to a significant presence in various regions. As families expanded, key areas of settlement can be traced through the records, showcasing how the Wightmans adapted and thrived in their environments. This expansion laid the groundwork for a complex family tree that would continue to branch out over time.
Tracing the Wightman Family Tree Through the Centuries
The Wightman surname saw considerable growth as it migrated beyond England, particularly during the 17th century when many family lines established themselves in the United States. As families settled in new territories, the Wightman name began to appear in diverse regions, reflecting the broader migration trends of the time. This global spread continued into the 18th and 19th centuries, further enriching the family tree with new branches and connections across continents.
Where to Find Wightman Genealogy Records Today
In modern times, the Wightman surname is found in various regions around the world, showcasing its longstanding presence and evolution. The records from the early 20th century onward indicate a continued expansion, particularly in North America and other English-speaking countries. For those interested in uncovering their own Wightman heritage, exploring the YourRoots database can provide valuable insights and connections to this rich family history.
Famous People with Wightman (and Their Family Tree)
Robert Wightman
Robert Wightman, born on December 29, 1952, is a renowned American actor celebrated for his impactful roles in theater and television. He is best known for replacing Richard Thomas as John-Boy Walton in the beloved TV series "The Waltons" from 1979 to 1981 and reprising the role in the TV movie "A Day of Thanks on Walton's Mountain" in 1982. Wightman has left a significant mark on stage, particularly in the West Coast Premier of Tennessee Williams' "Vieux Carré" and the award-winning production of "The Rose Tattoo." His filmography includes notable appearances in "American Gigolo," "Stepfather III," and "Living in Oblivion," showcasing his versatility and commitment to diverse roles.
Edward Wightman
Edward Wightman, born in 1566, was a radical Anabaptist minister known for his unorthodox religious beliefs. As a notable public figure in Burton upon Trent, he became involved with the Puritans and played a significant role in the investigation of Thomas Darling's alleged demonic possession. Wightman's theological views, influenced by the "soul sleep" doctrine of Martin Luther, led to his arrest and trial. Despite attempts to defend his beliefs against King James I and the Church's orthodox doctrines, his rejection of Trinitarianism ultimately resulted in his execution in 1612, making him the last person burned at the stake for heresy in England.
Louise Wightman
Louise Fitzgerald Wightman, also known as Lucy Wightman and famously performing as Princess Cheyenne, is a notable figure in Boston's exotic dance scene of the 1970s and 1980s. Known as "the thinking man's stripper," she challenged stereotypes with her articulate nature and educational background, earning her a reputation as Boston's favorite stripper. Her career highlights include headlining at the Naked i Cabaret, hosting a sex advice radio show, and posing for Playboy. Additionally, she won the 1993 Massachusetts bodybuilding championship. Later, Wightman faced legal issues for practicing psychology without a license, resulting in a conviction in 2007.
Louise Wightman's personal life was marked by her engagement to singer Cat Stevens and two marriages. She had a daughter, Victoria (Torri), with her second husband, Donald Wightman, a Boston police detective. Tragically, Torri passed away at the age of 16 due to an automobile accident.
Jake Wightman
Jake Wightman, a distinguished British middle-distance runner, is celebrated for his remarkable achievements in the 1500 metres. He clinched the gold medal at the 2022 World Championships, becoming the first British male to do so since 1983. Wightman also secured bronze medals at the 2018 and 2022 Commonwealth Games, and set Scottish records in the 800 m and 1000 m. Notably, he was named Sportsman of the Year by the Sports Journalists' Association in 2022, highlighting his prominence in athletics.
Jake Wightman hails from a family with a strong athletic background. His father, Geoff Wightman, is a former marathoner and coach, while his mother, Susan Tooby, and aunt, Angela Tooby, represented Great Britain at the 1988 Summer Olympics.
Arthur Wightman
Arthur Strong Wightman (1922–2013) was a prominent American mathematical physicist known for his foundational contributions to axiomatic quantum field theory. He developed the Wightman axioms, advancing research in modern mathematical physics. Wightman held esteemed positions at Princeton University, including Thomas D. Jones Professor of Mathematical Physics. His career included collaborations with notable scientists like Eugene Wigner and Gunnar Källén, and he was honored with the Dannie Heineman Prize and the Henri Poincaré Prize. As a fellow of the American Physical Society and the National Academy of Sciences, his work significantly influenced the scientific community.
Wightman Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Wightman" is associated with various notable individuals across different fields such as sports, politics, science, and the arts, including figures like American physicist Arthur Wightman and British athlete Jake Wightman. The name is also linked to places in the United States, such as Wightman, Iowa, and is used in contexts like the Wightman Cup, a historic tennis competition.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Wightman
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 Wightman family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Wightman 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