Woodson Family Overview

The Woodson family has a long and diverse history, with branches tracing back to early English settlers in Virginia and prominent Black families who were formerly enslaved. Key figures include Dr. John Woodson, an early 17^th -century physician immigrated from England to Jamestown, Virginia, in 1619. Carter G. Woodson, the “Father of Black History.” Carter was the son of former slaves James Henry and Anne Eliza (Riddle) Woodson both born into slavery in Virginia.