Summary

The surname Woolsey has English origins and can be traced back to the medieval period. It is believed to have originated from the Old English words 'wulf' meaning wolf and 'sige' meaning victory. Over the years, the name has undergone variations in spelling and pronunciation. Today, it is associated with families who have descended from ancestors who were known for their bravery and resilience.
There are
6949
Woolseys in the USA
Woolsey is the
5049th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Woolsey

ThomasWoolsey

Thomas Woolsey was an English statesman and cardinal of the Catholic Church in the early 16th century. He served as the chief minister of King Henry VIII and played a crucial role in the English Reformation. Woolsey is known for his attempts to secure an annulment of Henry VIII's marriage to Catherine of Aragon, leading to a break from Rome and the establishment of the Church of England.

SarahChauncey

Sarah Chauncey Woolsey, also known by her pen name Susan Coolidge, was an American children's author in the late 19th century. She is best known for her 'What Katy Did' series of children's books, which follows the adventures of Katy Carr. Woolsey's books were immensely popular and had a significant influence on children's literature.

JohnWoolsey

John Woolsey was a lawyer and judge from the United States. He served as a judge in the Southern District of New York from 1953 to 1971. Woolsey was known for his landmark decisions on various legal matters, including civil liberties and civil rights cases. His rulings played a significant role in shaping American jurisprudence.

DorothyWoolsey

Dorothy Woolsey was an Australian painter and artist in the early 20th century. She gained recognition for her unique style and use of vibrant colors in her paintings. Woolsey's artworks often depicted Australian landscapes and native wildlife, capturing the essence of the country's natural beauty.

WilliamWoolsey

William Woolsey was a British military officer during the Napoleonic Wars in the early 19th century. He served in the Royal Navy and played a crucial role in several naval battles, displaying exceptional leadership skills and bravery. Woolsey's tactical decisions contributed to the success of numerous military campaigns.

Woolsey Genealogy

OriginsThe surname Woolsey has English origins.
Geographic DistributionThe surname Woolsey is primarily associated with English-speaking countries such as England, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
VariationsVariations of the surname Woolsey include Woolsley, Woolseye, Wulsi, Wulsey, Woolset, and Woolsett.
Migration and ImmigrationMigration and immigration of individuals with the surname Woolsey occurred during different periods and in various places. Some notable migration and immigration events include the movement of Woolsey families from England to the British colonies in North America during the 17th and 18th centuries. In the 19th and 20th centuries, individuals with the surname Woolsey migrated from the United Kingdom to countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, seeking new opportunities and a better life.