Create a free account to navigate family trees, view ancestors, and discover connections.

First name (Optional)

Middle name (Optional)

Last name* (Required)

Advanced Search Options

Exact match

(Show only records that exactly match the information entered.)

Birth year (Optional)

Death year (Optional)

Birth location (Optional)

Death location (Optional)

Woodward Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Woodward Surname

The surname Woodward originates from England, with its earliest known records dating back to the early medieval period. The name is occupational in nature, traditionally associated with individuals who were wardens or keepers of the woods. This historical context reflects the significance of forest management and woodcraft during that era, establishing the Woodward name as a symbol of stewardship and responsibility in the community.

As the centuries progressed, the Woodward surname began to spread geographically, particularly across England. From the 11th to the 16th centuries, Woodward families established themselves in various regions, driven by economic opportunities and social mobility. This expansion laid the foundation for a robust family network, with many branches contributing to the growth and diversification of the Woodward family tree. By the 17th century, the name had crossed the Atlantic, with Woodwards migrating to the United States in search of new prospects.

Insights from the YourRoots dataset enrich the understanding of the Woodward genealogy by confirming the surname's origins in England during the medieval period. The data highlights significant growth during the 15th and 16th centuries, as the Woodward families became more prominent and began to establish their legacy across new territories. This transatlantic movement in the 17th century marked a pivotal point in the Woodward family's history, further expanding their presence and influence, particularly in North America.

Today, the Woodward surname remains prevalent, especially in the United States, reflecting its enduring legacy and widespread distribution. For genealogy enthusiasts and family-tree researchers, the combination of historical records and YourRoots insights provides a comprehensive view of the Woodward family's journey through time, offering rich material for tracing this storied lineage.

← START A NEW SEARCH

Find the Woodward Family Tree

Search more Woodward trees & genealogy records

Records

Search more trees & records for
Woodward for free

SIGNUP

Tracing Your Woodward Family Lineage

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

The Woodward surname has its earliest known appearance in records from England during the early medieval period, marking the beginning of a rich genealogical tapestry. This initial record connects to the foundations of family trees that would grow and branch out over centuries, illustrating the deep roots of the Woodward lineage in this region. The context of the period highlights a time of significant social and cultural development, setting the stage for the evolution of the Woodward family name.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Woodward

As the Woodward family spread through its early centuries, it found a stronghold primarily in England, where family lines began to establish their presence in various regions. During the 11th to 14th centuries, significant clusters of Woodward families emerged, particularly in areas that saw economic growth and population expansion. These families started to build branches of their family trees, laying the groundwork for future generations and creating a network of interconnected Woodward relatives.

The 15th and 16th centuries marked a period of substantial growth for the Woodward surname, with families increasingly spreading both in their local communities and beyond. As individuals sought new opportunities, the Woodward name became more prominent, allowing for the establishment of diverse family branches that would eventually seek new horizons. This period of expansion not only contributed to the family’s genealogy but also solidified the Woodward name as a notable lineage in England.

Tracing the Woodward Family Tree Through the Centuries

The Woodward surname began to experience notable expansion across regions in the 17th century, with many families migrating to the United States in search of new opportunities. This transatlantic movement established a significant presence of Woodwards in North America, particularly as the family continued to flourish throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. During this time, Woodward families diversified their roots, spreading into various states and regions, which enriched the global Woodward family tree.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Woodward surname continued to thrive in the United States, with family members contributing to various aspects of American society. The global spread of the Woodward name is evident, as descendants began to establish themselves not just in England and the United States but also in other parts of the world. This dynamic growth showcases the interconnectedness of the Woodward family lineage and its remarkable journey through time and geography.

Where to Find Woodward Genealogy Records Today

In the modern era, the Woodward surname remains prevalent, particularly in the United States, where it has seen a notable presence into the 21st century. The global spread of the surname reflects the family's rich history

Famous People with Woodward (and Their Family Tree)

Joanne Woodward

Joanne Woodward, born February 27, 1930, is a celebrated American actress known for her nuanced portrayals of complex women. Gaining fame in the 1950s, she earned an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in "The Three Faces of Eve." Woodward also won three Primetime Emmy Awards, a British Academy Film Award, and three Golden Globe Awards. Her collaborations with husband Paul Newman, both as a co-star and in his directed or produced films, further solidified her status in Hollywood.

Joanne Gignilliat Trimmier Woodward hails from Thomasville, Georgia, daughter of Elinor Trimmier and Wade Woodward, Jr. Her middle names reflect her Huguenot ancestry. Influenced by her mother's love of film, Woodward pursued acting, attending high school in Greenville, South Carolina, after her parents' divorce. She majored in drama at Louisiana State University, later studying in New York City.

Bob Woodward

Bob Woodward, a renowned American investigative journalist, gained fame for his groundbreaking reporting on the Watergate scandal alongside Carl Bernstein while at The Washington Post. Their investigative journalism led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon, marking a pivotal moment in American political history. Known for his prolific writing, Woodward has authored 21 books on American politics, with 14 achieving bestseller status. His work has significantly impacted journalism, inspiring a new generation of investigative reporters and being immortalized in the bestselling book and movie, "All the President's Men."

Born in Geneva, Illinois, Bob Woodward is the son of Jane (née Upshur) and Alfred E. Woodward, a lawyer and chief judge. Raised in Wheaton, Illinois, Woodward's parents divorced when he was twelve, and his father raised him and his siblings, later remarrying.

Shannon Woodward

Shannon Marie Woodward is a renowned American actress known for her versatile roles in television, film, and video games. Her prominent roles include Sabrina Collins on FOX's "Raising Hope," Elsie Hughes on HBO's "Westworld," and the voice of Dina in the acclaimed video game "The Last of Us Part II." Woodward's performance in the latter earned her a BAFTA Award nomination for Performer in a Supporting Role. Her career, spanning from her early days on "Clarissa Explains It All" to major film roles, showcases her dynamic acting range. Additionally, she appeared in Katy Perry's music video "Hot n Cold" and the documentary "Katy Perry: Part of Me."

Keren Woodward

Keren Jane Woodward, born on April 2, 1961, is an English singer/songwriter and a founding member of the iconic girl group Bananarama alongside Sara Dallin and Siobhan Fahey. Known for their chart-topping hits, the group reached number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 in 1986 with "Venus." With a career spanning over four decades, Woodward has remained a constant presence in the group, performing as a duo with Dallin since 1991. Bananarama briefly reunited with Fahey for a highly acclaimed tour in 2017 and 2018, earning the Icon Award at the Glamour Awards.

Edward Woodward

Edward Woodward was a distinguished English actor and singer, renowned for his diverse roles in television, film, and theater. He gained prominence with his portrayal of David Callan in the British spy drama "Callan," earning a BAFTA Award for Best Actor in 1970. Woodward's iconic roles include Police Sergeant Neil Howie in the cult classic "The Wicker Man" and Robert McCall in the American television series "The Equalizer," which won him a Golden Globe in 1986. His Broadway and West End performances further showcased his versatility, with notable appearances in "Rattle of a Simple Man" and "High Spirits."

Edward Woodward was born on 1 June 1930 in Croydon, Surrey, as the only child of Edward Oliver Woodward, a metalworker, and Violet Edith Woodward (née Smith). He experienced the hardships of the Blitz during World War II, being bombed out of his home three times. Despite these challenges, he pursued a passion for acting, studying at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.

Woodward Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Woodward" is of English origin, traditionally associated with a person who was a forester or wood-ward, responsible for the care and management of a forest. It has been borne by numerous notable individuals across various fields, including acting, architecture, literature, business, and science.

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Woodward

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