Terwilliger Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Terwilliger come from? What does the surname Terwilliger mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Terwilliger and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Terwilliger Origin: What does the last name Terwilliger mean?
The surname Terwilliger is of American origin, with records dating back to the early 17th century in the United States. The name has grown significantly since then, becoming prominent in American history. It is associated with various notable individuals, including movie directors, attorneys, geneticists, and baseball players.
YourRoots data confirms the prominence of the Terwilliger surname in the United States by the 20th century. Today, it remains a recognizable name in American society, reflecting a legacy of achievement and contribution across different fields and industries.
Terwilliger Last Name History: Where did the last name Terwilliger come from?
Origin of Terwilliger Surname: Where does the last name Terwilliger originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Terwilliger first appeared in records from the United States around the early 17th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Terwilliger spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Terwilliger: What does the Terwilliger surname history look like in the early days?
The Terwilliger surname started growing significantly in the 17th century, primarily in the United States.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Terwilliger surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Terwilliger surname grew significantly in the United States. The Terwilliger surname remains prominent in the United States.
Explore Terwilliger last name heritage and Terwilliger surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Terwilliger Surame?
G. Zachary Terwilliger
George Zachary Terwilliger (March 22, 1981 - ) is an American attorney who served as the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia from 2018 to 2021. He received his education from the University of Virginia and the William and Mary School of Law, where he graduated with highest honors. Terwilliger has prosecuted organized crime, human trafficking, and financial fraud offenses during his legal career. He comes from a family of legal professionals, including his father, George J. Terwilliger III, who served as the United States Deputy Attorney General. Terwilliger's experience and expertise have made him a prominent figure in the legal field.
Wayne Terwilliger
Willard Wayne Terwilliger (June 27, 1925 – February 3, 2021), known as "Twig," was an American professional baseball second baseman who played for various MLB teams from 1949 to 1960. He served in the Marines during WWII before transitioning to a successful playing career. Terwilliger later became a coach and minor-league manager, working with teams like the Washington Senators, Texas Rangers, and Houston Astros. With a solid playing record and a long coaching tenure, he left a lasting impact on the baseball world.
Joseph Terwilliger
Joseph Douglas Terwilliger is an American geneticist and professor known for his work at Columbia University and accompanying Dennis Rodman on trips to North Korea. He holds a Ph.D. in genetics and has an Erdős–Bacon number of 6. Terwilliger also teaches at Pyongyang University of Science and Technology and has appeared in "Dennis Rodman's Big Bang in Pyongyang." He's not just a scientist; Terwilliger is a tuba player and even sang on Lordi's 2020 album Killection. His unique journey from music to genetics makes him a fascinating figure in both the scientific and entertainment worlds.
Ron Terwilliger
J. Ronald Terwilliger (born 1941) is a prominent figure in the housing industry, known for his leadership at Trammell Crow Residential and his philanthropic efforts through the J. Ronald Terwilliger Foundation for Housing America's Families. With a strong background in business and a commitment to affordable housing, Terwilliger has received numerous awards for his contributions to the community. Through his generous donations and active involvement in organizations like Habitat for Humanity, he has made a significant impact on improving housing conditions for low-income families. Terwilliger's dedication to philanthropy and housing advocacy has solidified his legacy as a compassionate and influential leader.
James Terwilliger
James Terwilliger (October 3, 1809 – September 1, 1892) was an Oregon pioneer and one of the first English-speaking settlers of Portland, Oregon. He is known for his contributions to the early development of the city, with landmarks like Terwilliger Boulevard and Terwilliger School named in his honor. Terwilliger's adventurous spirit took him from New York to Illinois, Michigan, and eventually Oregon, where he made a lasting impact on the community through farming, civic involvement, and philanthropy. His legacy lives on through various historical sites and the naming of a character in "The Simpsons" after Terwilliger Boulevard.
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