Introduction
More than 30 descendants of the Norman Jersey noble George Poingdestre gathered in the Channel Islands for a special family reunion in 2025. With nearly 10,000 descendants living in the United States alone, the Poindexter Descendants Association celebrates its rich history and enduring ties to the island of Jersey.
The Legacy of George Poingdestre
George Poingdestre, a member of one of Jersey’s ruling Norman families, emigrated to Virginia in the 17th century. His legacy lives on through thousands of descendants connected by ancestry, history, and heritage. Over time, many family lines such as Poindexter, Pendexter, and Puddester evolved from the original Poingdestre name.
According to Poindexter Descendants Association, the family’s research has identified close to 10,000 descendants in the US alone.
Annual Reunions and Heritage Tours
The association organizes annual reunions in the United States and tours to Jersey every few years. This year’s tour was the largest, with visitors from 10 US states, Canada, Switzerland, and the UK. Jamie Poindexter, the tour’s organizer from Wisconsin, described Jersey as her “second home” and praised the warm welcome they received on the island.
Family Stories and Discoveries
Visitors like Jimmy Poindexter from Virginia described the trip as a “bucket list” experience, appreciating the island’s historic buildings, which are much older than those in the US. Others, like Kim Cisna from Iowa, recently discovered their Poindexter heritage through DNA testing, highlighting the continuing excitement and connection sparked by genealogy.
Poindexter Roots Beyond Jersey
The family’s research also uncovered branches in New England and Canada, with descendants such as Francis Puddester from Newfoundland considering Jersey their ancestral homeland. The association’s efforts demonstrate the widespread impact of this noble Norman family.
Conclusion
The Poindexter Descendants Association showcases how family history can connect people across continents and centuries. Their journeys to Jersey not only honor their roots but also celebrate the enduring legacy of one Norman nobleman’s journey to America.
Learn more about genealogy and ancestry research or explore the history of Norman families in Jersey.
