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Woodbury Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Woodbury Surname

The Woodbury surname has its roots in England, emerging in the early 16th century. Likely linked to geographic features, such as woodlands and boroughs, the name reflects a connection to natural landscapes and settlement patterns of the time. The Woodbury family tree, thus, began its journey in the rich historical tapestry of England, setting a foundation for future generations.

As the centuries progressed, the Woodbury surname spread geographically, primarily throughout southern England, especially in Devon and Somerset. By the 17th century, the name had gained prominence, with family branches intermingling with other local lineages. The 18th century marked a significant period of migration, with many Woodbury descendants moving to the American colonies, further diversifying the family and introducing the surname to a new continent.

YourRoots data provides a detailed view of the Woodbury genealogy, confirming the family's presence in England since the 16th century and supporting the narrative of their early migration to North America. The data highlights how the Woodbury family expanded during the 19th century in the United States, with branches emerging in various northeastern states. This aligns with historical patterns of settlement and expansion noted in the broader genealogical context.

Today, those interested in the Woodbury family tree can explore a wealth of Woodbury records through YourRoots, offering insights into the family's global spread and evolution. The continuity between historical sources and YourRoots records enriches the study of Woodbury genealogy, providing a comprehensive resource for family history researchers.

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Tracing Your Woodbury Family Lineage

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

The Woodbury surname first emerged in England during the early 16th century, marking the beginning of a rich genealogical history. This period represents a significant point for family trees, as it lays the foundation for future generations and their connections. The origins of the name are rooted in the geographic landscape of England, likely linked to locations characterized by woodlands and boroughs.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Woodbury

As the Woodbury family began to establish itself in England, its branches expanded primarily throughout the regions of southern England, particularly around the counties of Devon and Somerset. During the 17th century, the name gained further prominence, with families building their lineage and creating new branches as they settled in different areas. This period saw the Woodbury surname intermingling with other local families, enriching their genealogical tapestry.

In the 18th century, the Woodbury family began to see a notable migration, particularly to the American colonies. This movement not only diversified the family lines but also introduced the Woodbury surname to a new continent, allowing for further growth and evolution of their genealogical story.

Tracing the Woodbury Family Tree Through the Centuries

The Woodbury surname witnessed significant expansion across various regions over the centuries. In the 19th century, the name became increasingly associated with the United States, where families thrived and established themselves, particularly in the northeastern states. This global spread continued into the 20th century, with Woodbury branches appearing in Canada, Australia, and other countries, showcasing the family's adaptability and resilience.

Throughout these centuries, the Woodbury family tree has grown not only in size but also in diversity, reflecting the historical migrations and societal changes that shaped their lives. The connections forged during this time laid the groundwork for a vast network of descendants, each contributing to the rich legacy of the Woodbury name.

Where to Find Woodbury Genealogy Records Today

In the modern centuries, the Woodbury surname continues to be prevalent across various regions, with descendants found in numerous countries around the world. The 21st century has seen a renewed interest in genealogy, allowing individuals to trace their family lines back to the earliest records. Readers are encouraged to explore the Woodbury genealogy records in the YourRoots database to uncover their own unique connections within this extensive family history.

Famous People with Woodbury (and Their Family Tree)

Joan Woodbury

Joan Elmer Woodbury was a prolific American actress whose career spanned from the 1930s to the 1960s. Known for her versatility, she appeared in over 81 films, including notable roles in "Brenda Starr, Reporter" and "Charlie Chan on Broadway." Woodbury's exotic appearance, attributed to her Danish, British, and Native American heritage, allowed her to portray a variety of ethnic roles, enhancing her appeal in Hollywood. Despite a decline in her career due to personal choices, she left a lasting impact with roles in films like "The Ten Commandments" and her involvement in the Valley Players Guild.

Joan Woodbury was born in Los Angeles to Elmer Franklin Woodbury and Joan Meta Hadenfeldt. Her maternal grandfather, Charles Hadenfeldt, emigrated from Germany. Elmer Woodbury owned several hotels, while her mother had a vibrant past as Pasadena's Tournament of Roses 'Rose Queen' and a vaudeville performer. Joan's early exposure to the arts, alongside her mother's involvement, laid the foundation for her successful acting career.

Levi Woodbury

Levi Woodbury was a prominent American attorney, jurist, and Democratic politician from New Hampshire, known for his extensive four-decade public service career. He held significant roles such as Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, U.S. Senator, and Governor of New Hampshire. He served as Secretary of the Navy and Treasury under Presidents Andrew Jackson and Martin Van Buren. Woodbury had a noteworthy impact on the financial system, promoting the "Independent Treasury System" and "hard money" policies. His legacy includes being the first Supreme Court Justice to attend law school and his candidacy for the 1848 Democratic presidential nomination.

Levi Woodbury was born in Francestown, New Hampshire, to parents Mary and Peter Woodbury. His early education at Atkinson Academy and Dartmouth College laid the foundation for his legal and political career.

Woody Woodbury

Woody Woodbury, born Robert Dennis Woodbury on February 9, 1924, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a renowned American comedian, actor, and television personality. He gained fame in the early 1960s with best-selling comedy albums featuring risqué stories, earning him a gold record as one of the first standup comedians to achieve this milestone. Woodbury's career highlights include hosting the game show "Who Do You Trust?" and starring in films like "For Those Who Think Young" and "Safe at Home!" His work extended to television with "The Woody Woodbury Show" and performances at iconic venues like Caesars Palace, alongside notable figures such as Bob Hope and Jackie Gleason.

Ellen Woodbury

Ellen Woodbury is a renowned American stone sculptor and former Disney animator, celebrated for her pioneering role as Disney's first female directing animator. Born on August 10, 1962, she honed her skills at Syracuse University and California Institute of the Arts. Woodbury contributed to iconic Disney films like "The Little Mermaid," "Beauty and the Beast," "Aladdin," and "The Lion King," where she supervised the creation of Zazu. In 2005, she transitioned to a full-time sculptor in Loveland, Colorado and later received the 2019 Marilyn Newmark Memorial Grant from the National Sculpture Society.

Gordon Woodbury

Gordon Woodbury (1863–1924) was a prominent political figure in the early 20th century, known for serving as the United States Assistant Secretary of the Navy from 1920 to 1921. Appointed by President Woodrow Wilson after Franklin D. Roosevelt's resignation, Woodbury was a key Democratic leader in New Hampshire. He was also an editor of the Manchester Union and a repeatedly elected member of the New Hampshire General Court. Despite his political successes, Woodbury's attempt to join the United States House of Representatives in 1916 was unsuccessful.

Woodbury Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Woodbury" is associated with various geographical locations across the world, including places in the United States, England, and New Zealand. It is also a surname shared by notable individuals in diverse fields such as politics, art, and science. The name has historical significance, with places like Woodbury Castle in England and Fort Woodbury in the United States reflecting its historical roots.

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Woodbury

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