Unraveling My Ancestry: The Origin and Historical Journey of the Chitwood Lineage
Family name Chitwood
The iGENEA DNA test has unveiled the fascinating origin and history of my surname, Chitwood. From its Anglo-Saxon roots meaning 'Chicken Wood,' and the journey from Suffolk, England to the American colonies, I've gained insight into the lives of my ancestors and acknowledge their contributions to history.
Unveiling the mysteries of my ancestry through iGENEA's DNA testing has been fascinating. My surname, Chitwood, has showcased a rich lineage and culture that tells tales about my origin and history. This examination of my DNA has shed light on my ancestors' journey and the significance behind my unique surname.
One of the enlightening discoveries was learning that the Chitwood family originated from Anglo-Saxon tribes of Britain. The name Chitwood is derived from the old English pre-7th Century words 'Cicen' and 'wudu,' which mean 'Chicken' and 'Wood' respectively. This name was likely initially attached to those who lived in or near woods and raised chickens, providing intense insight into the lives of my ancestors during those times.
My Chitwood ancestors resided in Suffolk, a county in England, before venturing to the New World. A man named Jesse Chitwood, born around 1618, in Lowestoft, Suffolk, England, was a prominent figure in our family history, and his journey to America established the family roots in the New World.
As English settlers, they made first contact with the colonial landscape of North America in the 17th Century, with the arrival of people bearing the Chitwood surname. My ancestors explored and settled in states like Virginia, Kentucky, North Carolina, and Georgia, creating a legacy that I would carry today.
The cultural and historical significance of my surname does not stop at its Anglo-Saxon roots. The Chitwood surname has also contributed to American history. Raymond Chitwood, an early settler in the Georgian territory, played a significant role during the American Revolution.
The exploration of my Chitwood lineage has been a journey of self-discovery. It reminded me that we are thread weaved into the fabric of mankind's history, woven through generations of struggle, adaptation, and triumphs. I am a living testimony of my ancestor’s' struggles, joys, and resilience.
U. Chitwood