Holt Family Biographical Index
This index provides an overview of notable individuals bearing the Holt surname, grouped by occupation and sphere of influence. It serves as a navigational gateway to extended biographical accounts, complementing the Houses & Halls section and the wider historical framework of HoltAncestry. Each entry links to a full profile where available.
Judges, Lawyers & Public Office
Holts who served in the legal profession or held positions of public authority.
- Sir Thomas Holt of Aston — Lawyer, MP, and father of the Lord Chief Justice.
- Sir John Holt, Chief Justice — One of the most influential jurists in English legal history.
- James Maden Holt — Barrister and Conservative MP for North-East Lancashire.
Merchants, Industrialists & Business Figures
Holts involved in trade, manufacturing, commerce, and the development of regional industries.
- Sir Richard Durning Holt — Businessman and Liberal MP; prominent Liverpool figure.
- George Holt — Liverpool merchant, philanthropist, and founder of Sudley House.
- John Holt of Liverpool — Merchant and founder of the John Holt & Co. trading enterprise.
- John Holt of Portsmouth — Merchant and shipowner associated with Portsmouth’s maritime trade.
- Sir Edward & Joseph Holt — Brewer and founder of the Joseph Holt Brewery, Manchester.
Landowners, Gentry & Estate Holders
Holts associated with estates, halls, and landed interests across Lancashire, Yorkshire, and other counties.
- Robert Holt of Stubley — Landowner of Stubley Hall; central figure in the Rochdale Holt lineage.
- Nicholas Holt — Early emigrant and landholder in Massachusetts; progenitor of the American Holt line.
Military Service & Defence
Holts who served in the armed forces or held military commissions.
- Joseph Holt — Also served in the militia before establishing his brewery.
Clergy, Scholars & Learned Professions
Holts connected with the Church, universities, or scholarly pursuits.
- William Holt, the Jesuit — Priest, diplomat, and influential figure in late Tudor religious politics.
Social Reform, Co‑operation & Community Leadership
Holts associated with social movements, co‑operative societies, or community development.
- Rochdale Pioneers — Includes Holt family involvement in the early co‑operative movement.
Other Distinguished Individuals
Holts whose achievements fall outside the categories above.
- Holt Classification — A reference page explaining the classification of Holt families and branches.
About This Index
This page forms the central hub for Holt biographical material, linking individuals across different branches, occupations, and historical periods. As new research is completed, additional profiles will be added to the relevant sections, ensuring a clear and accessible route into the lives of Holt figures across the centuries.
