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Wingfield Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Wingfield Surname

The Wingfield surname has its origins in England, first appearing in records during the early 12th century. This name likely derives from locations named Wingfield in England, reflecting a geographical lineage tied to specific regions. Over the centuries, Wingfield has become associated with a rich tapestry of history, symbolizing a familial connection to England's past and its evolving society.

Throughout the centuries, the Wingfield family expanded across England, establishing branches in various regions. By the 13th century, the family had begun to significantly grow, contributing to the dissemination of the surname. The Wingfield name gained prominence in the 14th and 15th centuries, with more records of their influence in local communities. This period marked a critical phase in the evolution of the Wingfield genealogy, as the family tree spread and flourished.

YourRoots data provides insights into the Wingfield family's journey, confirming the surname's presence in England since the 12th century. This aligns with historical records showing the family's growth and prominence in subsequent centuries. The dataset highlights the Wingfield family's migration beyond England in the 16th and 17th centuries, particularly to the Americas, further enriching the genealogy with global connections.

Today, Wingfield genealogy records from YourRoots reveal a widespread presence across multiple continents, offering a valuable resource for those researching the Wingfield family tree. This data underscores the surname's historical roots and global expansion, providing a comprehensive view of its genealogical journey.

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Tracing Your Wingfield Family Lineage

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

The Wingfield surname first emerged in records during the early 12th century in England, marking the genesis of a family line that would evolve over centuries. This initial appearance symbolizes the beginnings of a family tree, with roots firmly planted in the English landscape, reflecting the social and cultural milieu of that time. As genealogical origins are traced, the connection to early English society offers insights into the lives and circumstances of those who bore the Wingfield name.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Wingfield

In the following centuries, the Wingfield family began to expand and diversify, particularly throughout England. During the 13th century, the family saw significant growth, establishing branches in key regions that would later contribute to the wider dissemination of the surname. This era marked a period of consolidation, with families building their genealogical lines and establishing their presence in both rural and urban areas.

As the 14th century progressed, the Wingfields became more prominent, with an increasing number of records indicating their influence in local communities. The 15th century saw an even greater proliferation, as families continued to branch out, creating a complex web of relationships that would define the Wingfield legacy. These early developments laid a strong foundation for the family’s history, with each generation contributing to the expanding family tree.

Tracing the Wingfield Family Tree Through the Centuries

The surname Wingfield's expansion continued into the 16th century, where the family began to spread beyond England, establishing roots in other regions, notably across the Atlantic. In the 17th century, the migration of Wingfield families to the Americas marked a significant turning point, introducing the surname to new territories and communities. This transatlantic movement illustrated a dynamic shift in the family’s genealogy, connecting disparate branches across the globe.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the Wingfield name continued to flourish, with families settling in diverse locations, including parts of Europe and the burgeoning United States. This global spread not only enriched the family’s history but also facilitated connections with various cultures, further diversifying the Wingfield lineage. The ongoing evolution of the family tree showcases the adaptability and resilience of the Wingfield surname throughout the centuries.

Where to Find Wingfield Genealogy Records Today

In modern times, the Wingfield surname has maintained its presence across various regions, with records reflecting its ongoing evolution into the 20th and 21st centuries. Families bearing the Wingfield name can be found in numerous countries, indicating a rich tapestry of genealogical connections that span the globe. Readers are encouraged to explore the YourRoots database to uncover their own Wingfield heritage and

Famous People with Wingfield (and Their Family Tree)

Edward Maria Wingfield

Edward Maria Wingfield

Edward Maria Wingfield (1550–1631) was a prominent English soldier, Member of Parliament, and key figure in early American colonization. Known for his crucial role in the Virginia Venture, Wingfield was a primary organizer and major financial backer of the London Virginia Company. He played a pivotal role in establishing Jamestown, Virginia, the first successful English-speaking colony in the New World, where he was elected the first President of the governing council in 1607. His tenure was marked by challenges, including allegations of atheism and Spanish sympathies, which he ultimately overcame, continuing his involvement with the Virginia Company until 1620.

Edward Maria Wingfield was born at Stonely Priory, Huntingdonshire, to Thomas Maria Wingfield and Margaret Kaye. His middle name, "Maria," honored Mary Tudor, Queen of France. Following his father's death, he was raised by his mother and stepfather, James Cruwys, although his uncle, Jacques Wingfield, played a significant role during his formative years. The Wingfield family had strong ties to the military, with his uncle being a notable figure in Ireland's colonization efforts.

Humphrey Wingfield

Humphrey Wingfield

Sir Humphrey Wingfield (d. 1545) was a prominent English lawyer and politician, notably serving as Speaker of the House of Commons from 1533 to 1536. His legal acumen was recognized early as a Lent Reader at Gray's Inn in 1517. Wingfield's career was marked by his roles as a commissioner of the peace for Essex and Suffolk, High Sheriff of Norfolk and Suffolk, and a member of the king's council. He supported the English Reformation, including the Acts affirming the royal supremacy. Wingfield was trusted by influential figures like Charles Brandon, 1st Duke of Suffolk, and Thomas Wolsey, contributing significantly to the political landscape of Tudor England.

Humphrey Wingfield was the twelfth son of Sir John Wingfield of Letheringham, Suffolk, and Elizabeth FitzLewis of West Horndon, Essex. His familial connections were notable, with brothers Sir Richard and Sir Robert Wingfield also holding distinguished positions. Through his mother, he was related to Thomas Wolsey. Humphrey married Anne Wiseman, the daughter and heiress of Sir John Wiseman of Essex, further cementing his ties to influential English families. His son, Robert Wingfield, continued the legacy by marrying into the Pargeter family, connected to the Lord Mayor of London.

Wingfield Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Wingfield" is associated with a variety of notable individuals, including historical figures, politicians, and artists, as well as with several geographical locations primarily in England, such as Wingfield in Bedfordshire and Suffolk. Additionally, the name appears in cultural references like the Wingfield Sculls rowing race and Tennessee Williams' play "The Glass Menagerie."

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Where to Find Genealogy Records for Wingfield

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

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