HOME > Wood Family Name Origin
Introduction
The Wood family name is a common surname in many English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The name has a rich history and interesting origin, tracing its roots back to medieval England. In this article, we will explore the genealogy and ancestry of the Wood family name, looking at its origins, variations, and notable members throughout history.
Origins of the Wood Family Name
The Wood family name is derived from the Old English word 'wudu,' which means 'wood' or 'forest.' In medieval England, many people lived near or worked in forests, and the name 'Wood' was often given to those who did. The name was also used to describe people who lived near a particular wood or forest, or who worked with wood as a carpenter or woodcutter.
Variations of the Wood Family Name
Like many surnames, the Wood family name has undergone various changes and variations over time. Some common variations of the name include Woods, Woode, Wode, and Woodman. These variations often reflect regional differences in pronunciation or spelling, as well as changes made by individuals or families over time.
Notable Members of the Wood Family
Throughout history, there have been many notable members of the Wood family. Some of the most famous include:
1. Natalie Wood
Natalie Wood was an American actress who starred in many classic films, including 'Rebel Without a Cause' and 'West Side Story.' She was born Natalia Nikolaevna Zakharenko in San Francisco, California, in 1938. Her mother, Maria Stepanovna Zudilova, was of Russian descent, while her father, Nicholas Zakharenko, was of Ukrainian descent and changed the family name to 'Gurdin' when they moved to the United States. Natalie later changed her name to 'Wood' after her mother's remarriage to William Wood.
2. Edward Wood, 1st Earl of Halifax
Edward Wood, 1st Earl of Halifax, was a British statesman who served as Foreign Secretary and Viceroy of India during the 1930s. He was born in Powderham Castle, Devon, in 1881, and was the son of Charles Wood, 2nd Viscount Halifax. The Wood family had a long history of political and military service, and Edward continued this tradition by serving in various government positions throughout his career.
3. Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods is an American professional golfer who is widely considered one of the greatest players of all time. He was born Eldrick Tont Woods in Cypress, California, in 1975. His father, Earl Woods, was of African American, Chinese, and Native American descent, while his mother, Kultida Woods, was of Thai and Chinese descent. Tiger's parents named him 'Tiger' after a Vietnamese soldier who Earl had served with during the Vietnam War.
4. Elijah Wood
Elijah Wood is an American actor who is best known for his role as Frodo Baggins in the 'Lord of the Rings' film trilogy. He was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in 1981, and was raised in a family of performers. His mother, Debbie Wood, was a professional dancer, while his father, Warren Wood, was a musician and music promoter.
5. Grant Wood
Grant Wood was an American painter who is best known for his iconic painting 'American Gothic.' He was born in Anamosa, Iowa, in 1891, and grew up on a farm. Wood's paintings often depicted rural life and landscapes, and he became a leading figure in the Regionalist art movement of the 1930s.
Conclusion
The Wood family name has a rich history and interesting origin, tracing its roots back to medieval England. From carpenters and woodcutters to actors and painters, the Wood family has produced many notable members throughout history. Whether you are a member of the Wood family or simply interested in genealogy and ancestry, exploring the history of this surname can be a fascinating journey.
