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Sign up freeWray Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Wray Surname
The Wray surname has its earliest known roots in England, with its origins tracing back to the early 13th century. This surname is believed to have emerged from the rich tapestry of medieval English society, where it likely denoted a familial connection to a particular locality or a characteristic of the landscape. Throughout history, the Wray surname has been most commonly found in the United States, England, Canada, and Australia, indicating its widespread adoption and the migration patterns of its bearers.
As the Wray family tree expanded, significant developments took place during the medieval period, especially in England's Yorkshire and Lancashire regions. The Wray genealogy began to diversify due to migration driven by agricultural and trade opportunities. This diversification led to the establishment of distinct family lines and further integration into various communities. By the 17th century, the Wray surname had also begun appearing in the American colonies, marking the start of its transatlantic journey and subsequent global spread.
YourRoots data enriches our understanding of the Wray genealogy by confirming the surname's presence in England as early as the 13th century. This information aligns with historical records, highlighting the surname's significant expansion during the late medieval period. The dataset provides insights into how the Wray family tree evolved, with family branches forming as individuals moved to new regions, thus supporting the narrative of a dynamic and interconnected genealogical history.
The YourRoots dataset offers valuable insights for those researching the Wray family tree and genealogy. It reveals a global presence of the Wray surname, with rich documentation available in regions like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. These records serve as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Wray family, providing a comprehensive resource for descendants to explore their heritage and family connections.
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Records
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CWChristopher Wray1601–1646Public Tree Person3 treesScore: BCWChristopher Wray1601–1646Public Tree Person3 treesScore: B
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FWFlora Belle Wray1876–1944Public Tree Person3 treesScore: CFWFlora Belle Wray1876–1944Public Tree Person3 treesScore: C
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LWLucy Mills Wray1900–1980Public Tree Person3 treesScore: CLWLucy Mills Wray1900–1980Public Tree Person3 treesScore: C
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RWRebecca Frances Vane Wray1624–1679Public Tree Person3 treesScore: CRWRebecca Frances Vane Wray1624–1679Public Tree Person3 treesScore: C
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AWAda P. Wray1877–1959Individual Tree PersonParents: Harrison Wray & Mary ReyerSpouse: John FelkerChildren: Viola, Ella, Elmer, Pfc, Solomon, Rhenel, JamesScore: AAWAda P. Wray1877–1959Individual Tree PersonParents: Harrison Wray & Mary ReyerSpouse: John FelkerChildren: Viola, Ella, Elmer, Pfc, Solomon, Rhenel, JamesScore: A
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AWAdam Wray1788–1865Individual Tree PersonParents: James Wray & Mary TalleySpouse: Mary WrayChildren: IredellScore: AAWAdam Wray1788–1865Individual Tree PersonParents: James Wray & Mary TalleySpouse: Mary WrayChildren: IredellScore: A
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AWAdam Wray1788–1865Individual Tree PersonParents: James WRAY & Mary TALLEYSpouse: Mary AgeeChildren: Mankin, Oatey, William, Mary, John, Joseph, James, Perry, ElizabethScore: AAWAdam Wray1788–1865Individual Tree PersonParents: James WRAY & Mary TALLEYSpouse: Mary AgeeChildren: Mankin, Oatey, William, Mary, John, Joseph, James, Perry, ElizabethScore: A
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AWAdam Wray1787–1865Individual Tree PersonParents: James Wray & Mary WrayScore: AAWAdam Wray1787–1865Individual Tree PersonParents: James Wray & Mary WrayScore: A
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AWAda Mary Wray1896–1930Individual Tree PersonParents: William Wray & Finnette DingusSpouse: Roy OnksChildren: Ivan, Bessie, HazelScore: AAWAda Mary Wray1896–1930Individual Tree PersonParents: William Wray & Finnette DingusSpouse: Roy OnksChildren: Ivan, Bessie, HazelScore: A
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AWAda Parthenie Wray1877–1959Individual Tree PersonParents: Harrison Wray & Mary ReyerSpouse: Solomon FealkerChildren: Viola, Andrew, Osteen, Soloman, Thelma, Ella, RhenelScore: AAWAda Parthenie Wray1877–1959Individual Tree PersonParents: Harrison Wray & Mary ReyerSpouse: Solomon FealkerChildren: Viola, Andrew, Osteen, Soloman, Thelma, Ella, RhenelScore: A
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AWAdella Jane Wray1936–1996Individual Tree PersonParents: Floyd Wray & Bertie JohnsonScore: AAWAdella Jane Wray1936–1996Individual Tree PersonParents: Floyd Wray & Bertie JohnsonScore: A
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AWAdolphus Charles Wray1878–1964Individual Tree PersonParents: Charles Wray & Harriett FisherScore: BAWAdolphus Charles Wray1878–1964Individual Tree PersonParents: Charles Wray & Harriett FisherScore: B
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AWAlbert G WRAY1813–1866Individual Tree PersonParents: Phillip Wray & Elizabeth RaglandScore: BAWAlbert G WRAY1813–1866Individual Tree PersonParents: Phillip Wray & Elizabeth RaglandScore: B
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AWAlbert Henry Wray1876–1941Individual Tree PersonParents: Joseph Wray & Caroline HainesScore: BAWAlbert Henry Wray1876–1941Individual Tree PersonParents: Joseph Wray & Caroline HainesScore: B
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AWAdam Wray1492–1590Individual Tree PersonParents: Stephen Wray & Lady WhitingScore: BAWAdam Wray1492–1590Individual Tree PersonParents: Stephen Wray & Lady WhitingScore: B
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AWAdolphus Wray1876–1878Individual Tree PersonParents: Charles Wray & Harriett FisherScore: BAWAdolphus Wray1876–1878Individual Tree PersonParents: Charles Wray & Harriett FisherScore: B
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AWAda Annie Wray1885–1949Individual Tree PersonParents: Joseph Wray & Ellen LanghornScore: BAWAda Annie Wray1885–1949Individual Tree PersonParents: Joseph Wray & Ellen LanghornScore: B
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AWAda Lenore Wray1897–1942Individual Tree PersonParents: Austin Wray & Ida WrayScore: BAWAda Lenore Wray1897–1942Individual Tree PersonParents: Austin Wray & Ida WrayScore: B
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AWAlbert Henry William Wray1903–1991Individual Tree PersonParents: Albert Wray & Elizabeth SeabrookScore: BAWAlbert Henry William Wray1903–1991Individual Tree PersonParents: Albert Wray & Elizabeth SeabrookScore: B
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AWAdam Wray1492–1584Individual Tree PersonParents: Lord Wray & Lady WhitingScore: BAWAdam Wray1492–1584Individual Tree PersonParents: Lord Wray & Lady WhitingScore: B
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AWAbigail Passmore Wray1800–1857Individual Tree PersonParents: Henry Passmore & Martha BuselSpouse: William WrayChildren: CarsonScore: CAWAbigail Passmore Wray1800–1857Individual Tree PersonParents: Henry Passmore & Martha BuselSpouse: William WrayChildren: CarsonScore: C
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AWAileen Marie Wray1900–1979Individual Tree PersonParents: Clarence Wray & Margaret DietzenSpouse: Clarence BergScore: CAWAileen Marie Wray1900–1979Individual Tree PersonParents: Clarence Wray & Margaret DietzenSpouse: Clarence BergScore: C
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AWAileen Sophia WRAY1895–1966Individual Tree PersonParents: Henry WRAY & Sophia HOVELLSpouse: Frederick FERGUSONChildren: Ronald, Frederick, Raymond, Heather, MurielScore: CAWAileen Sophia WRAY1895–1966Individual Tree PersonParents: Henry WRAY & Sophia HOVELLSpouse: Frederick FERGUSONChildren: Ronald, Frederick, Raymond, Heather, MurielScore: C
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AWAbigail Abby WRAY1804–1863Individual Tree PersonParents: George Wray & Elizabeth NoneSpouse: George EdwardsChildren: HarrietScore: CAWAbigail Abby WRAY1804–1863Individual Tree PersonParents: George Wray & Elizabeth NoneSpouse: George EdwardsChildren: HarrietScore: C
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Tracing Your Wray Family Lineage
Origin of the Wray Family: Where does the Wray surname come from?
The Wray surname has its earliest known appearance in England during the early 13th century, marking the beginning of its genealogical history. This initial record serves as a foundational point for family trees, suggesting that the Wray lineage originated within the rich tapestry of medieval English society. Connections to this period provide insight into the societal structures and locations that shaped the early Wray families.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Wray
Throughout the subsequent centuries, the Wray family began to spread across England, particularly in the regions of Yorkshire and Lancashire, which became notable for their concentration of Wray lineage. During the late medieval period, the surname gained traction, with family branches starting to form as individuals moved to different areas for opportunities in agriculture and trade. This migration led to a diversification of the Wray family tree as members settled in various locales, establishing distinct family lines.
The expansion of the Wray family continued into the early modern period, during which time the surname saw increased documentation and recognition. As the family grew, so too did the connections to other surnames, leading to marriages and alliances that further enriched the Wray genealogical narrative. These developments reflect a dynamic period of growth and integration within English society, solidifying familial ties that would last for generations.
Tracing the Wray Family Tree Through the Centuries
In the 17th century, the Wray surname began to make notable appearances beyond England, particularly with the arrival of families to the American colonies, marking the start of a significant transatlantic journey. This migration laid the groundwork for a flourishing Wray presence in the United States, which expanded dramatically in the 18th century as families sought new opportunities. By the 19th century, the Wray surname had spread across various states, illustrating a remarkable global presence and the evolution of family branches in new regions.
As the 20th century unfolded, the Wray family continued to thrive, with descendants establishing themselves in various parts of the world, including Canada and Australia. This period saw an increase in documentation and research, allowing individuals to trace their family connections more comprehensively. The global spread of the Wray surname is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its bearers throughout history.
Where to Find Wray Genealogy Records Today
In the modern era, particularly during the 21st century, the Wray surname maintains a notable presence in genealogical records, with families scattered around the globe. Regions such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom house a wealth of Wray genealogy records, allowing descendants to delve into their heritage. Readers are encouraged to explore the Your
Famous People with Wray (and Their Family Tree)
Fay Wray
Fay Wray, a Canadian-American actress, gained fame as the original "scream queen" for her iconic role as Ann Darrow in the 1933 film King Kong. Her extensive acting career spanned nearly six decades, including notable performances in horror films like Doctor X and Mystery of the Wax Museum. Wray began her journey in the film industry with minor roles and rose to prominence after being named a "WAMPAS Baby Star" in 1926. Her career highlights include working with Paramount Pictures, RKO Radio Pictures, and starring alongside notable actors such as Wallace Beery.
Born Vina Fay Wray near Cardston, Alberta, she was one of six children in a family with roots in England, Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Wales. Her parents, Elvina Marguerite Jones and Joseph Heber Wray, were members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Wray's family moved to the United States when she was young, settling in Utah before relocating to Hollywood, where she pursued her education at Hollywood High School.
Link Wray
Fred Lincoln "Link" Wray Jr. was a pioneering American guitarist, songwriter, and vocalist, celebrated for his influential 1958 instrumental hit "Rumble." Known for his innovative use of distortion and tremolo, Wray's work left a lasting impact on rock music. He was ranked No. 45 on Rolling Stone's list of the 100 greatest guitarists and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2023 in the Musical Influence category. Throughout his career, Wray collaborated with numerous artists and released several albums, including "Link Wray" (1971), showcasing his unique style and musical evolution.
Born on May 2, 1929, in Dunn, North Carolina, Link Wray was the son of Fred Lincoln Wray Sr. and Lillian Mae Coats, who was identified as being of Shawnee descent. Wray's early life was marked by poverty and discrimination, with his family enduring harsh conditions and hiding from the Ku Klux Klan. Despite these challenges, Wray and his brothers pursued music, forming bands like The Lucky Wray Band and The Palomino Ranch Gang in Portsmouth, Virginia.
Emma Wray
Emma Wray, born Gillian Elizabeth Wray on March 22, 1965, in Birkenhead, is an acclaimed English television actress best recognized for her role as Brenda Wilson in the popular Granada Television sitcom "Watching" (1987-1993). Known for her versatile performances, Wray also played significant roles in "Stay Lucky" and appeared in series like "Boon" and "Minder." Her talent extended to singing, where she performed the theme tune "What Does He See In Me?" for "Watching." In 1996, she returned to television with a lead role in "True Love," which was later adapted into the series "My Wonderful Life" by Simon Nye, running until 1999.
Lyliana Wray
Lyliana Wray is a talented American actress recognized for her diverse roles across film and television. She made her debut in Marvista's 2015 film "Girl Missing" and gained further attention with her appearance in Paramount's 2016 film "Maximum Ride." Her television credits include roles in ABC's "Strange Angel," NBC's "The Night Shift," and Nickelodeon's 2019 revival of "Are You Afraid of the Dark?" In 2022, Wray showcased her versatility by appearing in the highly anticipated Paramount release "Top Gun: Maverick," playing the role of Amelia Benjamin. These varied performances highlight her dynamic range and contribute to her growing reputation in the entertainment industry.
Nicole Wray
Nicole Monique Wray, known professionally as Lady Wray, is an acclaimed American singer and songwriter born on May 2, 1979. She gained prominence with her 1998 debut single "Make It Hot," which was certified gold. Transitioning to a traditional soul sound in the 2010s, Wray formed the duo Lady with Terri Walker and later adopted the name Lady Wray, releasing albums "Queen Alone" (2016) and "Piece of Me" (2022). Her career includes collaborations with renowned artists like Missy Elliott and The Black Keys, marking significant achievements in the music industry.
Nicole Wray was born in Salinas, California, to Debra Wray (née Murphy) and Kenneth Wray. She has an older brother, Kenny Wray, who is also a singer, and a younger sister, Myrtis Wray. The family later relocated to Portsmouth, Virginia, where Nicole became a prominent member of her church choir.
Wray Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Wray" is predominantly found in the United States, England, Canada, and Australia. It is associated with two extinct baronet titles in England and includes notable individuals such as Fay Wray, a Canadian-American actress known for her role in "King Kong," and Link Wray, an influential American rock and roll musician.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Wray
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 Wray family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Wray surname to learn more.
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