Discovering Ancestral Connections: Liv and Steven Tyler's Journey on Who Do You Think You Are?
Exploring the lives of celebrities and delving into our family history both serve as ways to understand ourselves better. When Aerosmith's Steven Tyler and his daughter Liv Tyler appeared on the show Who Do You Think You Are?, the intersection of these two explorations became even more intriguing.
Liv Tyler visited the Saratoga County Clerkâs Office in Ballston Spa, New York, to uncover details about her maternal ancestors. She learned about her great-great-great-great-grandfather, George Washington Elliott, who lived in New York from 1838 to 1918. Liv saw a family photo of Elliott, his wife, and their 17 children, as well as a portrait of Elliott in his Masonic uniform.
The emotional impact of discovering her family history was evident on Liv, especially when she shared the information with her father, Steven Tyler. The resemblance between Steven Tyler and his New York ancestors, particularly George Washington Elliott, was striking, especially in features like the lips and jaw. The fact that Elliott was also a drummer in historical wars added another layer of connection.
Elliott's role as a drummer in the War of 1812 and the Civil War, surviving through both conflicts, was remarkable. Steven Tyler's first instrument was also the drums, making this ancestral link even more special. Jokingly, Steven mentioned his survival in the music business while standing in Prospect Hill Cemetery in Schuylerville, New York.
The lineage continues with George Washington Elliott's descendants, including his son Robert J. Elliott and granddaughter Susan Ray Blancha Tallrico, who eventually gave birth to Steven Tyler. The connection between the generations through music and family history adds depth to the story of the Tyler family.